Prevention of Gout

Gout flares are largely preventable once the causes are known and uric acid is controlled.

Lifestyle steps

• Keep a healthy weight, with gradual weight loss if overweight
• Limit alcohol, especially beer and spirits
• Cut down on sugary drinks and fruit juice
• Eat less organ meat, red meat and large seafood portions
• Drink enough water through the day
• Stay active with regular exercise
• Avoid crash diets and long fasting

Medical steps

• Take uric acid-lowering medicine regularly if prescribed, even between flares
• Have blood tests for uric acid and kidney function as advised
• Manage blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol and kidney disease
• Review medicines such as diuretics and low-dose aspirin with your doctor
• Keep a flare plan from your doctor, so you can start treatment early

Know your triggers

Keep a note of foods, drinks and events before a flare. Share it with your doctor.

Ayurvedic view

Regular meals, light food and avoiding alcohol and heavy meals are traditional suggestions that fit with general healthy habits. They are not proven to prevent gout on their own.

Key point

Early treatment prevents joint damage, tophi and kidney stones. A hot, swollen joint with fever needs same-day care.

Before your appointment

Carry earlier uric acid and kidney reports, a list of all medicines and supplements, and notes on which joints hurt, when flares started and what you ate or drank beforehand. Tell your doctor about any kidney stones, diabetes, blood pressure or family history of gout.