Doctor shares great tips to prevent gout flare-ups

Gout occurs when the body has more uric acid than the kidneys can process. The uric acid builds up, forming crystals in the joints of the body, most commonly in the toes, ankles, and knees. These crystals cause severe pain and swelling when a gout flare occurs.

Doctors at Optima Foot and Ankle Gout Clinic (USA) share 5 tips for patients to prevent gout flare-ups.

1. Don't forget to drink enough water

Cold weather may make you less thirsty, but it can lead to dehydration due to the cold, dry air.

The kidneys need water to filter uric acid in the body.

Your kidneys need water to filter uric acid from your body. If you don't drink enough water, your uric acid levels will increase, allowing crystals to form, causing a gout attack, according to Optima Foot and Ankle .

2. Don't drink too much alcohol

Cutting down or eliminating alcohol will reduce your risk of gout flare-ups. The kidneys prioritize alcohol over uric acid, leading to higher levels of uric acid in the blood. Drink in moderation or choose non-alcoholic beverages. Be sure to drink an extra glass or two of water when you drink alcohol.

3. Be careful with sweets

Eating too many sweets can increase your blood sugar levels. High blood sugar can increase uric acid levels. Limiting sugary foods and drinks can help prevent gout attacks.

Purines break down into uric acid in the body, eating too many foods rich in purines is a cause of gout.

4. Avoid purines

Purines are chemicals found in all plant and animal proteins, but some foods have higher levels. Purines break down into uric acid in the body, and eating too many purine-rich foods is a cause of gout.

Avoid red meats such as beef, veal, lamb and chicken as they are all high in purines. Organ meats and shellfish top the list of purine content. Focus on a low-purine diet that includes plenty of protein sources, whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables. Cherries are one food that can reduce uric acid levels in the body.

5. Reduce stress

Stress can contribute to increased uric acid levels in the body, so it’s important to relax both mentally and physically when managing gout symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Try yoga, mindfulness exercises, or meditation to help relieve stress, according to Optima Foot and Ankle.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/bac-si-chia-se-meo-hay-de-ngan-ngua-con-gout-bung-phat-185250212193512358.htm