Ah, it’s that time of year again. The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the grill is calling my name. There's something about the smell of grilled steaks, burgers, and shrimp that just makes everything feel right as the weather warms up.
But if you’ve been living with gout (or high uric acid levels) like I have, you might already know that not all of those delicious grill favorites are doing your joints any favors. And trust me — I’ve learned the hard way! 😅
Grilling season is amazing, but it can also be a bit of a minefield for our joints. Foods like red meat, shellfish, and beer can skyrocket uric acid levels, leading to painful flare-ups. So how do you enjoy the BBQ season without ending up in a flare-up fog for days? Well, I’ve got a few tips and tricks up my sleeve that have helped me keep my joints happy while still having a good time around the grill.
Here’s the thing — you don’t have to give up all your BBQ favorites. You just need to get a little creative.
I’m a huge fan of a juicy burger, but over the years, I’ve learned that swapping out beef for something leaner can make a big difference. Turkey burgers, grilled chicken, and even fish (salmon or cod) are great alternatives. They still give you that grill flavor without raising your uric acid levels as much as red meat does.
And honestly? They taste just as good — though I’m sure some of you might argue otherwise. But hey, no one’s complaining when there’s less joint pain the next day, right?
If you're anything like me, vegetables might not have been the star of your grill line-up. But let me tell you, zucchini, asparagus, and even grilled peppers are game changers. They’re low in purines, packed with nutrients, and they complement grilled meats perfectly.
And don’t forget to throw some mushrooms on the grill — they’ve got that meaty texture that can trick your taste buds.
I used to toss shrimp on the grill like it was nothing, but I’ve learned that shellfish can really increase uric acid levels. They’re delicious, no doubt, but I’ve cut back a bit. Instead, I’ve been grilling more lean fish, which gives me that nice flaky texture but doesn’t spike my levels like shrimp can.
Now, I’m not saying you need to skip out on a cold one. But beer, unfortunately, is a big trigger for gout. So, I keep it in check. I limit myself to one or two beers and make sure I stay hydrated with plenty of water. I also love switching things up with sparkling water or even a low-sugar iced tea.
This is where I get a little personal. I’ve been relying on our Uric Acid Support Capsules more than ever since spring started. These little capsules help me keep my uric acid levels in check, so I can enjoy the BBQ without worrying too muchabout the aftermath.
Let’s talk hydration for a second. With all the grilling, eating, and a little bit of celebrating, I often forget to drink enough water. But staying hydrated is a big part of keeping those uric acid levels low. Water helps flush out excess uric acid from your body, so it’s one of the easiest ways to support your joints.
I keep a water bottle handy while I’m grilling. I make it a point to drink some before I dig into my meal — and of course, in between those tasty bites. A little hydration goes a long way!
Enjoying grill season doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your joints. With a few simple swaps — leaner meats, more veggies, and watching the beer intake — you can enjoy the BBQ without worrying about the flare-ups. I’m living proof that it’s possible, and I want you to feel the same.
So, are you ready to fire up that grill? I know I am!
If you’ve got any grilling tips or recipes that work for your joints, I’d love to hear them. And if you’re ready to get a little extra help this season, check out our Uric Acid Support Capsules. Let’s make this grill season the best one yet — without the pain! 🙌
Brandon
P.S.I know it's not quite summer yet, but I couldn’t resist sharing a few of my favorite BBQ recipes to get you in the grilling mood. Check them out here and start planning your next cookout (even if it's just a little early)!
**Before making any significant changes to your diet, consult with your healthcare provider.