According to new research published in the journal Arthritis Care and Research, the risk of gout increases with a higher body mass index (BMI).
Gout is the most common type of inflammatory arthritis that is estimated to affect 1.4 per cent of people in the UK and is more prevalent among men than women.
The study, carried out by researchers at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, analysed the data of US adults between the years 1988-1994 and 2007-2010 to determine a link between weight and gout.
It was discovered that between one and two per cent of people with a healthy BMI of 18.5 to 29 had gout, compared to as much as seven per cent of adults with a BMI of more than 35, which indicates morbid obesity.
Between four and five per cent of people with a BMI of 30 to 34.9 were found to have gout, illustrating the rising threat of the condition among people with more weight to shift.
The study authors said: "Healthcare providers should be aware of the elevated burden of gout among both overweight and obese adults, applicable to both men and women."
Arthritis Research UK advises people with gout to use ice packs when acute attacks kick in, while weight loss is also recommended for controlling the condition.
Other ways to reduce the effects of gout including eating less purine-rich foods like oily fish, while swapping alcohol for water should also help patients overcome the pain.
Foods rich in vitamin C are also recommended.
Those trying to sculpt a bikini body can complement a healthy diet with a regular exercise regime to ensure the pounds stay off.
