The word "gout" typically evokes a classic image of a middle-aged, overweight man suffering an attack after over-consumption of a diet of red meat and alcohol. This is partly true, but there are also many other causes that bring on this painful affliction.
Gout is basically caused by the over-production of uric acid, or reduced excretion of uric acid by the kidneys, both causing a buildup in the body. Uric acid crystals then form in the joints of the feet, elbows, ankles, knees, wrists and fingers, and may also involve the kidneys, blood and soft tissue.
Other risk factors of developing gout include genetic causes, excessive high protein diets which raise ketone levels in the blood, kidney damage, cancer, psoriasis, lead toxicity, large amounts of purine-containing foods, excessive Vitamin C (more than 3gm daily) or Vitamin B3 (more than 50mg daily).
Natural remedies that can alleviate gout and lower uric acids
There are some natural remedies that alleviate gout, including the following:
- Celery seed extract has anti-inflammatory compounds and may prevent further gout attacks by eliminating uric acid in the body.
- Berry fruit such as cherries and strawberries contain anthocyanosides with anti-inflammatory and uric acid lowering abilities. Eat them fresh or blend into a delicious smoothie.
- Vitamin C (500mg daily) can also help to reduce uric acid levels but too high a dose may have the opposite effect.
- Ginger and turmeric can increase circulation and reduce inflammation. Add them to your food or take as a supplement.
- Antioxidants such as vitamin E, bilberries, grape seed and pine bark extracts have the added benefits of lowering inflammation and reducing uric acid levels.
It is very important to lower your intake of purine foods such as organ meats, asparagus, seafood, yeast and mushrooms, as purines are also formed in the body by the metabolism of proteins. Tofu is a great source of protein that increases uric acid elimination, as does a higher complex carbohydrate and low-fat diet.
It is equally necessary to avoid alcohol and it may even be possible to end gout attacks just by giving it up and and increasing intake of water, juices and herb teas that dilute urine and increase elimination of uric acid.
Medications that are prescribed for treatment of gout
Various medications for gout may be prescribed by your doctor, one of which may be colchicine. Extreme care must be taken with this drug as it should only be taken under strict guidelines. Overuse or long term use can have toxic or even fatal effects.
Vitamin C precaution: People with kidney disease should consult their health care professional when taking vitamin C supplements. It can increase the absorption of iron from foods, so those with hemochromatosis should not take vitamin C supplements.
2 comments:
If you talk to people in your family, many of them will tell you about their problems with arthritis and gout. uric acid gout
You have shared best natural treatment for gout and also one important point is prevent gout attacks. But I like Natural Supplements For Gout.
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