How to Avoid Gout Flare-ups During St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations

St. Patrick’s Day—where everything is green, the drinks are flowing, and if you’re not careful, your uric acid levels might decide to throw their own little parade in your joints.

But don’t worry! You don’thave to sit out on the fun. A few smart swaps and tricks can keep you celebrating without waking up regretting every sip and bite.

1. The Green Beer Dilemma 🍺

It’s fun, it’s festive, and…

it’s packed with purines.

Beer—especially the green-dyed kind—can be a major gout trigger. If you still want to toast the holiday, try a whiskey on the rocks or mix up an Irish Mule (whiskey, ginger beer, and lime juice—just go easy on the ginger beer). And whatever you drink, follow it up with a tall glass of water. Hydration = happy joints.

Pro Tip: Want something non-alcoholic but still festive? Try sparkling water with a squeeze of lime and a sprig of fresh mint—it looks just as fancy in a glass, and your joints will thank you!

2. Guinness Isn’t a Meal (No Matter What They Say) 🍀

It’s easy to spend the day sipping drinks and forget to eat real food. But alcohol on an empty stomach is a fast track to uric acid buildup. Make sure you start the day with a protein-packed breakfast—something like eggs with whole-grain toast or Greek yogurt with berries.

Need a mid-party snack? Instead of the usual pub fries, grab a handful of almonds or cashews, or make a quick snack board with cheese, grapes, and whole-grain crackers.

3. Salty, Boozy, and Dehydrated? Bad Combo! 🧂🍹

A lot of St. Paddy’s Day dishes—stews, corned beef, pub snacks—are loaded with salt. When you add alcohol into the mix, it’s a recipe for dehydration, and that’s when uric acid builds up.

Easy Fix: Every time you grab a drink, grab a glass of water, too. If you’re eating something salty, balance it out with fresh veggies or fruit. Even a handful of cucumber slices or an apple can make a big difference.

4. Corned Beef & Cabbage? Try This Instead! 🥩➡️🍗

Corned beef is salty, delicious, and, unfortunately, loaded with purines. But don’t worry—there’s a way to keep the tradition alive without the flare-up. Instead of corned beef, try slow-cooked chicken with garlic, mustard, and a little apple cider vinegar for that same tangy, savory flavor.

💡 Quick Recipe: Gout-Friendly St. Paddy’s Chicken

• 2 chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp thyme

Mix everything together, marinate for an hour (or overnight), then bake at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes. Serve it up with steamed cabbage and roasted potatoes, and boom—you’ve got a St. Paddy’s feast that won’tleave your joints screaming.

5. Move a Little—Your Joints Will Thank You 💃

I know, I know—after a big meal, all you want to do is sink into a chair and let the food coma take over. But before you do, try taking a quick 10-minute walk. Even a little movement can help keep uric acid from settling into your joints.

Bonus: If you’re at a party, put on some Irish music and get moving! A little dancing never hurt anyone (and it’s way more fun than stretching).

Enjoy the Craic—Without the Flare-Up!

St. Patrick’s Day should be about good times, good food, and a little Irish luck—not joint pain. With a few easy swaps, you can enjoy the day without the aftermath.

And if you want to give your body a little extra help keeping uric acid levels in check, I’ve got just the thing—our Uric Acid Support Capsules.😉

Brandon

**As always, check with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or routine.