Can patients with gout drink baking soda water?

Jul 16, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have always liked drinking soda water (sodium bicarbonate water). However, since being diagnosed with gout, I have completely stopped drinking it. May I ask if it's okay to drink a small amount of soda water with gout?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Gout patients can drink sodium bicarbonate water in moderation. Sodium bicarbonate water, which is alkaline, helps alkalize urine, thereby promoting the dissolution and excretion of uric acid to some extent and reducing the formation of urate crystals. It thus provides certain auxiliary therapeutic benefits for gout patients. It should be noted, however, that sodium bicarbonate water does not directly treat gout or lower blood uric acid levels. Excessive consumption may cause adverse reactions such as alkalosis. Therefore, gout patients should follow the principle of moderate consumption and take sodium bicarbonate water under the guidance of a qualified physician. In addition, maintaining adequate water intake, following a low-purine diet, and using medications appropriately are also important measures for gout patients to manage their condition.