Gout and Autoimmune Disease Care in Brickell: What Is the Role of Diet in Reducing Flare-Ups?

What Is Gout—and How Does It Relate to Autoimmune Issues?

Gout occurs when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp crystals in the joints, causing sudden pain, swelling, and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly targets healthy joint tissues, causing pain and inflammation. Although both involve inflammation, gout is a crystal-induced arthritis, not an autoimmune disease. Our team helps patients who have gout, autoimmune arthritis (such as RA), or both conditions at the same time by managing inflammation, treating flares, and supporting overall joint health.

Why Diet Matters for Flare-Ups

Diet plays an important role in managing joint pain and inflammation. Understanding how daily meals affect your body can empower you and foster hope for better control over flare-ups. A balanced diet supports natural body functions, including digestion and immune response. Choosing whole foods, staying hydrated, and limiting trigger foods may reduce stress on the joints. With guidance from the team at Brickell Rheumatology Wellness Center, small and consistent diet changes can support comfort and long-term symptom control.

Foods That May Trigger Symptoms

Some foods are known to increase discomfort for people with joint conditions. These foods may not affect everyone the same way, but they are often discussed during visits at Brickell Rheumatology Wellness Center. Common trigger foods include:

• Sugary drinks—especially those with high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS)
• Alcohol (especially beer)
• Red and organ meats
• Certain seafood (anchovies, sardines, mussels)
• Fried and processed foods (general inflammation)

Foods That Support Joint Comfort

Healthy foods can help calm inflammation and support overall wellness. Many people seeking gout and autoimmune disease care in Brickell are encouraged to focus on simple, whole foods. Helpful food choices often include:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains (e.g., oats, brown rice)
• Lean proteins (e.g., poultry, fish, tofu, beans, lentils)
• Healthy fats (e.g., olive oil, nuts)
• Low-fat dairy (e.g., yogurt, milk)
• Coffee (if tolerated and medically appropriate)

Steps to Build a Flare-Fighting Diet

Track Your Triggers

Tracking food and joint responses helps you feel capable of managing your symptoms. Keeping a simple diary over a week enables you to see which meals may trigger flare-ups and make informed choices, giving you a sense of control and confidence.

Swap High-Purine Foods

High-purine foods can raise uric acid levels, which may trigger gout pain. Swapping red meat for plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, or tofu can reduce this risk. Start with small changes rather than removing everything at once. This gradual approach helps your body adjust and makes the diet easier to maintain without feeling restricted or overwhelmed.

Add Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Anti-inflammatory foods support immune balance and joint comfort. Ingredients like turmeric and ginger may help with general inflammation, but they are not treatments for gout. You can mix them into soups, teas, or cooked dishes. Talk with your clinician before using supplements to confirm safety and interactions.

Check Portions

Portion size matters when managing flare-ups. Large meals can strain digestion and may contribute to uric acid fluctuations. Smaller, more frequent meals can help maintain balance and steadier digestion, supporting energy levels and comfort throughout the day. Aim to stay well-hydrated—about 2 liters of nonalcoholic fluids daily, unless your clinician advises otherwise.

Work with Your Care Team

Sharing your diet plan with your care team allows for personalized adjustments. During visits to Brickell Rheumatology Wellness Center, your progress and challenges can be reviewed, enabling safe, effective, and realistic dietary changes over time. This collaboration helps you feel supported and confident in your management plan.