Yes, diet can help lower uric acid and prevent attacks of gout, but not by much.

On average, only a small percent of the body's uric acid, about 10%, comes from the diet. But for some people, a low "purine" diet can make a difference.

It's always worth a try. You should try to avoid foods that are high in purine, or at least keep them to a minimum. Foods that are high in purine include:

• All meats, especially organ meats
• Beans, peas and lentils
• Cauliflower
• Meat stock and gravy
• Mushrooms
• Seafood, especially sardines and anchovies
• Spinach and asparagus
• Yeast and yeast extracts

Also, too much alcohol, especially beer, can raise uric acid levels and increase gouty attacks.

By the way, drinking coffee doesn't affect uric acid blood levels or cause gout. And always drink enough water to avoid dehydration.