Can fish oil cause gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when too much uric acid builds up in the body, causing crystals to form in joints, and joints to become inflamed and painful.

Uric acid is formed when the body digests purines, compounds found in some foods and beverages, including dried beans, liver, wine, and beer, and oily fish such as herring, mackerel and anchovies.

Fish oil capsules contain omega-3 fatty acids; these fats can help relieve some of the symptoms of gout as well as help with many other heart and blood system conditions.

A concern with regard to using fish oil for gout is the purine content of fish oil. Purines are found in the fatty fish that provide fish oil. However, fish oil does not usually contain high amounts of purines if it is pure and is processed properly. You should buy only fish oil that is highly purified and molecularly distilled from your pharmacy or reputable health store or source.
You should also talk with your doctor about your concern.