Summer means trips to the pool, lots of time spent outdoors; plenty of chances to grill with loved ones, and maybe even a relaxing trip away from home. While you are planning your summer activities, remember that gout doesn’t take a vacation. Don’t let gout flares in the summer stop you from enjoying the warmer weather. What do you need to know about managing gout in the summer months?
How Do I Prevent a Gout Flare on Vacation?
It can be tempting to skip your urate-lowering therapy (ULT) medications when you’re not experiencing a gout flare. However, gout is a chronic disease that requires ongoing medication for life. The best way to avoid a gout flare while on vacation is to take your daily uric acid-lowering medications as prescribed. With this in mind, here are a few helpful reminders:
- Make sure to pack enough of your prescription medications for the duration of your trip.
- Pack prescriptions in their original containers and document the names and dosage for your records.
- Store medications in a safe place, as temperature and humidity may impact some prescriptions.
Additionally, bring along an NSAID pain reliever or colchicine to reduce pain and inflammation if you have a gout flare away from home. If you do experience a flare, track key healthy benchmarks using the Gout Education Society’s Crystal Clear Checklist.
How Important is Staying Hydrated When You Have Gout?
Staying hydrated is important year-round, but it’s especially imperative in the summer when you’re active and sweating.
“When the body gets dehydrated, it can raise the uric acid in the blood, which can cause gout flares,” says Dr. N. Lawrence Edwards, a rheumatologist and chairman of the Gout Education Society. “It’s also bad for the kidneys and can lead to kidney stones.”
Many dietitians recommend consuming at least 64 ounces of water daily and more if you are exercising. Water helps the body transport nutrients and waste, regulates body temperature and cushions joints and tissues. Research also suggests that drinking adequate water might guard against kidney stones and constipation.
What Types of Foods and Drinks Should You Avoid in the Summer if You Have Gout?
Even though there are no foods that cause gout, and regular use of urate-lowering medication is the best way to prevent and manage a gout flare, it’s recommended to limit certain foods and drinks in your diet.
If you’re at a barbecue or out to eat, limit the following foods in your diet. If you have a gout flare, avoid these entirely:
- Red meat
- Lamb
- Pork and organ meats
- Shellfish
- Shrimp
- Lobster
- Sardines
- Processed foods
- Fried foods
- Chips
- Beer
- Grain alcohol
- Wine
- High fructose corn syrup
If you’re wondering, “Well, what can I eat,” take inspiration from the DASH diet, the Mediterranean diet, and reach for low-fat or non-fat dairy products; fresh vegetables and fresh fruit; and nuts and grains.
“As long as your uric acid levels are under control, while on vacation, you can celebrate and enjoy your favorite foods if you do it in moderation and continue your prescribed treatment regimen,” Dr. Edwards advises. “Instead of the 12-ounce steak, though, opt for a 4-ounce portion and steamed vegetables.”
Does Hot Weather Contribute to Gout Flares?
According to research by Gout Education Society Board Member Tuhina Neogi, MD, PhD, high temperatures and humidity may lead to increased risk of gout attacks even if individuals are often in climate-controlled indoor environments. Higher temperatures cause increased sweating, which can lead to dehydration. Dehydration causes uric acid levels to increase, leading to a gout flare. The Gout Education Society recommends continuing urate-lowering therapies and drinking plenty of water during the warmer months to keep gout flares at bay.
Enjoy Summer Without a Setback From Gout
While gout is a chronic disease, it doesn’t have to derail your summer plans. By staying hydrated, sticking to your prescribed medications, and making smart food choices, you can manage your condition and still enjoy everything the season has to offer. Whether you’re traveling, grilling, or soaking up the sun, a little preparation goes a long way. For more tips and resources, visit our education library.
