Gout is a form of arthritis that affects joints, particularly the big toe or foot area. It is triggered by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood over prolonged periods of time. The kidneys, whose primary function is to keep the blood clean and chemically balanced, produces uric acid which it later secretes through the urine. If the kidneys are impaired or unable to eliminate the uric acid properly, the body deposits hard, crystalline formations of uric acid in the joints and skin. Gout is often treatable through diet, nutrition and lifestyle changes.
Causes & Prevention
A high intake of purine-rich foods such as alcoholic beverages (particularly beer and wine), organ and red meats, anchovies, sardines and other canned fish, beans, black-eyed peas, mushrooms, cauliflower, spinach and asparagus may escalate the condition. If you suffer from gout, limit these foods in your diet. High blood pressure, some medications, niacin, diuretics and aspirin can also elevate uric acid in the body.
Genetics may also play a role in development of gout; approximately 18 percent of people diagnosed have a family history of the disease. Gout is also much more prevalent in men than women, and obesity increases the risk of gout in adults.
Lifestyle Recommendations
Fresh air and exercise are excellent for gout and will help reduce stress levels which might also complicate the condition. Cold packs applied to affected joins will offer pain relief, as well as elevating the affected joint above heart level. Many find relief with Epsom salt baths, which help clear toxins and can be taken as needed. Keep well hydrated with water and avoid caffeine, alcohol and other dehydrating beverages.
Diet
Many natural foods are an excellent addition to the diet for those suffering from gout; take raw vegetable juices such as carrot, beet and cucumber daily. Malic acid, a natural substance found in raw apples, is believed to help neutralize uric acid. Eat one apple after every meal. Lime juice may also be beneficial as a help for sore joints; squeeze half a lime in a glass of water twice daily.
Herbs
Bromelain, a natural enzyme in pineapple, is available in supplement form and can be used during an acute attack of gout. Other helpful long-term supplementation is cherry extract (up to half a cup per day) and the herb nettle. Try making a compress with nettle tea and apply it to the affected area to help relieved inflamed tissues.
Olive leaf has been shown to reduce uric acid production with regular, long-term supplementation, along with devil's claw and cat's claw teas. Flaxseed oil has natural properties to reduce leukotrienes, which are involved in the inflammatory reaction during an attack of gout. One tablespoon daily is recommended.
Vitamims
Johns Hopkins University published a study in June 2005 that showed taking 500 mg of vitamin C a day lowers the amount of uric acid in the bloodstream. Some doctors also recommend folic acid, a B vitamin that inhibits the enzyme responsible for the body's production of uric acid. Consult your doctor, as recommended doses are well above the recommended daily dose of 400 mcg.
Vitamin E is sometimes recommended for gout sufferers for its anti-inflammatory properties; take 400 international units (IU) daily. Avoid niacin, which actually increases uric acid production.
Tags: uric acid, acid production, attack gout, from gout, long-term supplementation, uric acid production
