Can I drink white liquor if I have gout?

Jul 16, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My grandfather used to really enjoy drinking白酒 (Chinese liquor), but since being diagnosed with gout, he has completely stopped drinking it. He often craves it during daily life. I would like to ask, is it not allowed to drink白酒 for people with gout?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Gout patients should not drink white liquor (baijiu) for the following main reasons: 1. **Impedes uric acid excretion**: The alcohol in baijiu interferes with the kidneys' ability to excrete uric acid, leading to elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, which may trigger or worsen gout symptoms. 2. **Promotes uric acid production**: During alcohol metabolism, lactic acid is produced, which inhibits the renal tubules' excretion of uric acid, further increasing uric acid levels. 3. **Increases liver burden**: Excessive alcohol intake from baijiu adds stress on the liver, impairing its ability to metabolize uric acid, which is detrimental to gout control. Gout patients should avoid drinking baijiu to prevent exacerbation of the condition or triggering gout attacks. Additionally, patients should maintain healthy lifestyle habits and a balanced diet to control uric acid levels and prevent the onset of gout.