Gin And Tonic

Gin and tonic combines distilled gin with carbonated tonic water. While neither ingredient is high in purines, the drink poses gout risks primarily through alcohol and sugar.

Alcohol: Gin contains ethanol, which increases uric acid production and reduces kidney excretion of uric acid. Binge drinking and frequent consumption are strongly linked to gout flares.

Tonic water: Regular tonic water is sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup or sucrose, both of which raise uric acid. Diet tonic water eliminates this issue but may still contain artificial sweeteners.

Practical guidance: If you drink, limit to one serving occasionally. Choose diet tonic water to avoid fructose. Drink plenty of water alongside. Avoid gin and tonics during a flare. Always consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption with gout and other health conditions.