Can You Lift Weights With Gout? Flare-Ups and Protein Shakes

During a painful gout flare, rest the affected joint and avoid loading it. Once symptoms settle, exercise can be adjusted to your joint symptoms and uric acid levels. Sudden painful swelling with fever needs urgent medical assessment because a joint infection can look like gout. (NHS gout guidance) (Keio University Hospital gout guide)

Training and weight cuts around a competition

The original story describes a bodybuilder in his thirties who developed gout. He had cut weight before a competition and eaten more afterward. That sequence cannot establish what triggered his attack. A report about pH also cannot establish the diagnosis. Clinicians assess the pattern of symptoms and may use blood tests or examine joint fluid. (Keio University Hospital diagnostic guide)

Between flares, build back with manageable activity and avoid dehydration. Follow any fluid restriction from your clinician. If you are considering a rapid weight cut or intense training, discuss the plan with the clinician managing the gout. (NHS gout self-care guidance) (Review of uric acid metabolism and exercise therapy)

Do you need to stop whey or soy protein?

The American College of Rheumatology conditionally recommends limiting alcohol, high-purine foods and high-fructose corn syrup. It does not recommend that everyone with gout stop whey or soy protein supplements. Check added sugars in your powder and whatever you mix it with. If you have chronic kidney disease, ask your care team how much protein is appropriate for you. (American College of Rheumatology gout guideline) (NIDDK chronic kidney disease nutrition guide)