Dodging Flare-Ups and Refills: My Summer Party Strategy

Summer has a way of tempting us. Ice-cold drinks, salty snacks, good company — and suddenly, you're halfway through your second plate and someone hands you a cold one. It’s easy to say yes. Especially when you're at an age where everyone just assumes you've “earned it.”

But if you’ve ever limped through the next morning, wondering why your big toe feels like it got hit with a hammer... you know: the little indulgences add up fast.

I know because I’ve been there. Too many times.

So this summer? I’m doing things differently — and last weekend was proof that it’s absolutely worth it.

🎉 The Backyard Party Test

Picture it: lawn chairs, grilled everything, classic rock playing, and everyone’s got a drink in hand. These are the kinds of summer moments we wait all year for.

But here’s what I’ve learned the hard way:
Every extra beer, hot dog, or salty chip can be a landmine for your joints — especially when you’re over 50 and dealing with things like gout, fibromyalgia, or just decades of wear and tear.

So at this party? I had one beer. Just one.
Not because I’m boring. Because I like walking the next day.

⚠️ Uric Acid Doesn't Care If You're Celebrating

Trust me, I wish it did.

Alcohol — especially beer — can spike uric acid and trigger inflammation. Combine that with hot weather, dehydration, and standing around chatting all day? Recipe for a flare-up.

And look, I love a party as much as anyone. But I love waking up without pain more.

💡 So What Did I Do Instead?

• I sipped my one beer slowly (because pacing is everything).

• I stuck with joint-friendly foods (hello turkey burgers and fruit).

• I kept a water bottle nearby and actually used it.

• I doubled down on my Lifetones routine that morning and that night.

• I rested when I needed to. No shame in claiming the comfiest chair.

And guess what?
I danced. I laughed. I won at cornhole.
And the next morning? No swelling. No hobbling. No regrets.

🙅 Handling the Social Pressure

If you’ve ever had someone tease you for turning down a drink or skipping the second plate, I get it. People mean well — but they don’t always understand what it’s like to pay for fun with pain.

Here’s how I handle it:

• Keep something in your hand (sparkling water with lime does the trick).

• Say something simple like, “I’m good for now.”

• Remember: you’re the one who has to feel your joints tomorrow. Not them.

You don’t owe anyone an explanation. You owe yourself a pain-free tomorrow.

✅ Tips to Party Smarter (Not Smaller)

If you want to enjoy the gathering and avoid the post-party punishment:

• ✅ Stick to your Lifetones (don’t skip, especially on indulgent days)

• 💧 Drink water — before, during, and after

• 🥗 Mix indulgence with balance (one rib + some fruit = still winning)

• 🪑 Sit down before your body forces you to

• 😄 Keep your sense of humor — it heals more than you think

🏆 The Real Win? Feeling Good the Next Day

There was a time when I’d power through every party — eat everything, drink everything, ignore every twinge — and then pay for it for days.

Now? I’d rather say no once than suffer all weekend.

So yeah, I only had one beer. And I still had a great time.
No pain. No drama. And I got to enjoy the entire weekend, not just the first few hours of it.

If you’re in the same boat — trying to enjoy life without letting your joints take over the guest list — I’m here with you. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being smart enough to keep showing up.

With your feet up, if needed.

Brandon