It’s no secret that on top of the excitement of the holiday season, there’s added pressure to look after our health and well-being. Not only do we need to be careful about what’s on the menu, but there are also certain drinks we need to be wary of – especially if you suffer from gout! In today’s article, we’re going to discuss some drinks you should avoid if you have this condition – and offer lots of suggestions for safe alternatives!
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Alcoholic beverages:
Alcoholic beverages can be especially dangerous for people with gout, an inflammatory condition caused by the buildup of uric acid in the blood. When the body metabolizes the ethanol found in alcoholic beverages, it produces compounds called purines, which are known to raise uric acid levels.
As a gout flare can occur when the build up of uric acid exceeds normal levels, it is essential to limit or avoid the consumption of all alcoholic beverages to effectively manage this condition. Also, drinking alcohol can reduce the effectiveness of some medications prescribed to treat gout and prevent further attacks. Ultimately, abstinence is the best solution for treating gout so that individuals can successfully control their symptoms and lead healthier lives.
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Concentrated fruit juices:
Fruit juices are an integral part of a healthy diet, but for people who suffer from gout, the consumption of fruit juice concentrates is not allowed. This is because the body breaks down fructose into uric acid, which can increase uric acid levels in the blood and cause painful inflammation in joints and tendons.
A diet that is too high in sugar can also put extra strain on a person’s kidneys and liver, making it harder to filter out excess uric acid. To ensure people with gout don’t consume too much sugar, health professionals strongly recommend avoiding concentrated juices, as they contain high levels of simple sugars like fructose.
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The sodas:
Similarly ; sodas are also categorically prohibited for gout sufferers. Sodas contain high levels of fructose, which can worsen symptoms such as joint swelling, inflammation, and severe pain. Fructose also causes uric acid levels to rise, making a new flare-up more likely in someone with gout.
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Eggnog:
Eggnog is traditionally made from milk, cream, sugar, and eggs, with additional ingredients that may differ depending on the recipe. Unfortunately, some of these ingredients can cause gout symptoms to flare up. The main culprit is usually refined carbohydrates or sugary drinks found in both dairy components and alcohol additions like brandy or whiskey.
Too many carbohydrates can cause uric acid levels to skyrocket, responsible for triggering gout attacks as well as inflammation and potential joint pain. Therefore, for gout sufferers, it is best to avoid eggnog if they want to maintain a healthy uric acid balance.
What are healthier alternatives to drinking in moderation?
Water :
Drinking plenty of water is one of the most beneficial actions people with gout can take! Not only does it help keep the body hydrated, but it also helps flush out uric acid that might be stuck in the joints, reducing pain and inflammation. Gout sufferers are encouraged to drink at least 8 cups of water a day to ensure optimal health and prevent further damage from this chronic condition. Water also has many other benefits, such as aiding digestion and helping vital organs function properly.
Green tea :
For gout sufferers, green tea can be a great option as an alternative drink. Studies have shown that drinking two to three cups of green tea daily can help reduce the risk of developing gout and support lower levels of inflammation. Additionally, drinking green tea can help dilute uric acid levels and improve kidney function over time.
The health benefits of antioxidants and micronutrients in green tea are also noted to boost overall health, provide a natural boost to immunity, and help regulate hormones. In sum, adding green tea to a gout sufferer’s diet can provide many benefits in terms of short-term relief and long-term prevention.
Freshly squeezed fruit juices:
Freshly squeezed fruit juices are a great alternative to sugary drinks for gout sufferers. Many store-bought juice products are loaded with sugar and preservatives, but freshly squeezed juices are generally free of these additional ingredients. The vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in many fruits can also help reduce inflammation associated with gout. Taking the time to make your own fresh juices gives you greater control over the nutrients you consume and allows you to customize them for maximum health benefits.
