Lifestyle and dietary choices markedly influence levels of uric acid in serum and the frequency of gout flares.
According to the findings of a systematic review, lifestyle choices and dietary habits may substantially affect gout activity and serum uric acid levels, offering patients non-pharmacological strategies to manage the disease. Gout, a widespread form of inflammatory arthritis, occurs due to monosodium urate crystals deposition in the joints, causing intense pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
While medications remain valuable for treatment, growing evidence suggests that diet and physical activity are equally crucial in minimizing flare-ups. The review, led by Mohammad Mustafa et al., analyzed 8 studies — including 5 prospective cohort studies, 2 case-crossover studies, and 1 randomized controlled trial — encompassing 47,879 participants, mostly middle-aged men (78.5–95.3%, aged 55–66 years). Researchers employed the Newcastle-Ottawa scale to examine observational studies while the Cochrane Risk of Bias 1.0 tool was utilized for trials, ensuring methodological rigor.
Key findings
This review reinforces the role of dietary patterns, physical activity, and weight management in controlling gout activity and serum uric acid levels. While further research is warranted, these strategies present practical, patient-centered approaches that may curtail reliance on long-term pharmacological interventions.
Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition
Impact of lifestyle factors and dietary patterns on serum uric acid levels and disease activity in gout: a systematic review
Mohammad Mustafa et al.
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