Patients with gout need to keep uric acid levels under 6, or even 5 if they are higher risk. Lowering uric acid can help prevent gout attacks and reduce the risk of kidney stones and other health issues. Here are the most effective lifestyle, dietary, and medical strategies:
Dietary Changes
Reduce Purine Intake by avoiding or limiting red meats (beef, lamb, pork), organ meats (liver, kidney), shellfish (shrimp, crab, lobster), anchovies, sardines, and mackerel.
Limit fructose and sugary beverages, such as soda and processed juices. High fructose corn syrup increases uric acid.
Avoid excess alcohol, especially beer and spirits (they impair uric acid excretion). Wine is somewhat better, but still should be limited.
Eat low fat dairy products as milk and yogurt may help lower uric acid.
Increase vegetables and whole grains as these are low in purines and support overall metabolic health.
Lifestyle Changes
- Lose Weight Gradually
- Rapid weight loss can raise uric acid temporarily, so aim for slow and steady reduction.
- Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water to help flush uric acid via urine.
- Exercise Regularly
- Improves insulin sensitivity, which helps lower uric acid.
Supplements That May Help
- Vitamin C (500 mg/day): May modestly reduce uric acid.
- Cherries or Tart Cherry Juice: Anti-inflammatory and shown in studies to reduce gout attacks.
- Magnesium: Especially if deficient; may support uric acid metabolism.
Medications (if lifestyle isn’t enough)
Prescribed by a doctor, especially for recurrent gout or very high levels:
- Allopurinol (Zyloprim): Reduces uric acid production.
- Febuxostat (Uloric): Alternative to allopurinol.
- Probenecid: Increases uric acid excretion.
- Colchicine: Used for gout flare prevention but doesn’t lower uric acid directly.
