Gout is a complex form of arthritis and is characterized by sudden and severe attacks of pain, redness, tenderness and swelling in the joints, often the joint at the base of the big toe (approximately 50% of cases). Other joints, such as the heels, knees, wrists and fingers, may also be affected. Gout is caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. The uric acid crystallizes, and the crystals deposit in joints, causing a lot of pain and inflammation. Men are more likely to get gout, but women become increasingly vulnerable to gout after menopause.
Here are the best natural gout treatments that involve diet and lifestyle changes.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes to Relieve Gout
Lose weight
Controlling your weight is essential if you have gout. Results from study published in 2010 at Boston University School of Medicine found that obesity is a major risk factor for gout.
About half of all gout sufferers are found to be overweight, and this excess weight worsens the situation. It is therefore evident from this study that losing weight, and maintaining a proper body weight, will greatly improve the chances of reducing further gout attacks.
Exercise is not recommended if you suffer from gout
Exercise is not recommended while your joints are painful or when it might cause further injury, but once your gout is back under control, exercise increases circulation and normalizes uric acid levels in the body.
Drink more water
Increasing water intake helps to flush uric acid from the system and prevents buildup of uric acid crystallization around the joints. So drink plenty of water, about 8 glasses a day, and stay hydrated.
One study found that higher water intake could help to relieve gout by lowering uric acid levels. The researchers discovered a link between low water consumption and excess uric acid in the blood (hyperuricemia).
You can add to the water the juice of half lemon into an 8-oz. glass of warm water. Drink it in the morning about 30 minutes before breakfast. The lemon water will help you manage your gout, as lemon juice helps prevent the formation of urate crystals.
Find more information about the many health benefits of drinking lemon water.
Foods to avoid
Avoid foods that are rich sources of uric acid. These include organ meats and seafood such as sardines and anchovies. It is also advised to eliminate coffee and all other caffeine sources from your diet, as well as reducing sugar consumption and alcohol.
Mayo Clinic also suggests to Limit consumption of meats such as liver, kidney and red meat which have high purine levels and contribute to high blood levels of uric acid.
such some doctors recommend to limit its consumption. The Mayo Clinic says that according to studies vegetables high in purines, such as asparagus and spinach, don’t increase the risk of gout or recurring gout attacks.
Foods to Eat to Help Relieve Gout
1. Ginger
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