Hey, everyone.
We’ve got another great question from our Ask Me Anything segment today! Big thanks to Patricia S. for asking such a relevant question:
What are the most common gout mistakes people make in the winter, and how can I avoid them?
As the winter months roll in, it's easy to forget some important things when it comes to managing gout. The cold weather can actually make it harder for people to keep their flare-ups in check, and there are a few common mistakes many of us make this time of year that can make things worse. But don’t worry – I’m here to help you avoid them! 🥶
Why it’s a problem:
When the temperature drops, your joints can become stiff and painful. And for people with gout, this can increase the likelihood of flare-ups. Cold weather slows circulation, which can make it harder for your body to flush out uric acid, leading to more pain.
How to avoid it:
Why it’s a problem:
When it’s cold, it’s tempting to dive into comfort foods like stews, rich meats, and fried foods. But many of these foods are high in purines, which break down into uric acid. And you already know, high uric acid levels are what cause those painful gout flare-ups. 😩
How to avoid it:
Why it’s a problem:
The cold weather can make it easy to forget to hydrate. But staying hydrated is essential for managing gout, especially in winter. Water helps flush excess uric acid out of your system, so if you're not drinking enough, you’re making it harder for your body to get rid of the things that cause flare-ups.
How to avoid it:
Why it’s a problem:
In winter, shorter days and cloudier skies mean we don’t get as much sunlight. But sunlight helps our body produce vitamin D, which is essential for joint health and overall wellness. A lack of vitamin D can worsen joint pain and even contribute to gout flare-ups.
How to avoid it:
Why it’s a problem:
When the temperatures drop, it’s easy to forget how the cold can affect your joints. The cold can cause them to tighten up, which increases the risk of swelling and pain, especially for gout sufferers. ❄️
How to avoid it:
Winter can be tough on gout, but by being mindful of these common mistakes and taking proactive steps to avoid them, you can make the cold months much easier to handle.
Patricia S., thanks again for the awesome question! I hope this helps everyone who’s managing their gout through the winter. And if you have more questions or need advice, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Brandon
Don
January 16, 2025
These tips are very helpful. Thank you!