Consuming alcohol is one of a biggest triggers of a painful gout attack. Studies have shown that beer in particular is dangerous. One study followed 47,000 men for 12 years and found that 2% of them developed gout. Those that had more alcohol in their diet had a much higher risk. One serving of beer a day can increase your risk by 50%. Beer in particular has high levels of purine, explaining its particular risk. Other alcoholic drinks to avoid include hard liquor and wine.