Gout Cases Surge in Young South Koreans Linked to Diet and Lifestyle Habits

Gout, once primarily associated with middle-aged men who enjoyed alcohol and meat, is now seeing a sharp rise in patients in their 20s and 30s in South Korea. This demographic shift is linked to modern lifestyle habits, including frequent consumption of delivery food, excessive alcohol intake, and drastic weight-loss attempts like intermittent fasting, all of which can negatively impact uric acid levels and increase gout risk.

According to medical experts, gout is a condition caused by the excessive accumulation of uric acid in the blood, leading to the deposition of urate crystals in the joints, triggering inflammation. The pain associated with gout is famously described as "even a light breeze hurts." Statistics from the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service show a steady increase in gout patients nationwide, from approximately 1.38 million in 2021 to 1.49 million in 2025. Notably, the number of patients aged 20-30 grew by 12.9% during the same period, outpacing the overall patient increase of about 8%.

Dietary habits play a significant role, with frequent consumption of high-purine foods, often found in delivery meals, increasing uric acid production. Alcohol consumption further exacerbates the problem by hindering uric acid excretion. Obesity is a known risk factor, but rapid weight loss can also trigger gout attacks. Dr. Lee So-yeon from Kangdong Kyung Hee University Hospital emphasizes that individuals in their 20s and 30s, often with irregular lifestyles due to work or social activities, tend to neglect uric acid management. She advises a holistic approach, considering overall diet and lifestyle patterns rather than just avoiding meat and alcohol.

Even seemingly healthy choices require careful consideration. While chicken breast is a lower-purine protein source than red meat, excessive intake can still affect uric acid levels. Protein supplements should also be checked for ingredients. Intermittent fasting and extreme calorie restriction can lead to increased ketone bodies, which impair the kidneys' ability to excrete uric acid, potentially triggering or worsening gout attacks. While weight loss is beneficial for gout management, it should be gradual and combined with a balanced diet and exercise.

Furthermore, the trend of "healthy pleasure," including zero-calorie drinks and non-alcoholic beer, is not entirely risk-free for gout patients. Zero-calorie beverages may reduce sugar intake but can still raise uric acid levels during metabolism. Non-alcoholic beer, despite its name, retains purine components from its barley and malt ingredients. Patients are cautioned against assuming these products are safe and should check ingredient lists. Crucially, individuals diagnosed with gout must adhere to their treatment plan even after acute pain subsides. Stopping medication prematurely can lead to recurrent attacks, joint damage, and long-term complications like cardiovascular and kidney issues. Maintaining blood uric acid levels below 6 mg/dL through consistent medication, lifestyle changes, and a balanced diet is key to preventing chronic gout and its associated health problems.