Gout is one of the most treatable forms of arthritis that is caused by the building-up of crystals of uric acid in the different tissues of the body. The build-up can be lumped in and around the joints and the tendons as well as the surrounding tissues. Mostly, the main targets are the joints in the feet and ankles especially the small joint of the foot’s big toe. Gout can be found in men over 45 years of age or in women who are at the post-menopausal age. The sufferers are usually overweight and drink alcoholic beverages regularly. It results in inflammation, stiffness and excruciating pain in the affected areas. Gout attacks go away or subside after a couple of days but can sometimes be fatal resulting in death if not treated quickly and effectively. Gout can either be medically treated or through herbal and natural treatments. Read on further to know the different natural remedies of getting rid of gout and prevent it from occurring again.
Getting Rid Of Gout
- Follow a diet low in purines or get rid of them. Purine-rich foods are meats (especially organ meats), gravy, anchovies, yeast, legumes, sardines, mackerel, cauliflower, herring and other fish and seafood. Moderate amount of purines can be found in mushrooms, lentils, kidney beans and asparagus. Limit meat portions to 3 to 4 ounces per day.
- Alcohol is very high in purines which lead to an increased risk of getting gout. Thus, either avoid it or reduce its consumption.
- Take lots of fluids which in turn will dilute the urine in the body and help in excretion of uric acid. Fluid intake does not include only water; vegetable juice, herbal teas, soups and milk are also included.
- Include foods high in carbohydrates such as fruits, whole grains (bread, cereals, rice, pasta, etc.) and vegetables in your diet.
- Frequent dehydration is a major risk factor for gout attacks. Consume at least 3 liters of water to prevent formation of kidney stones and reduce instant chances of gout.
- Other safe gout foods are low-fat dairy products, high vitamin C foods, essential fatty acids (tuna, salmon, seeds), cherries, strawberries, blueberries and grapes.
- Your intake of fats should not include more than 30% calories.
- Fresh bing-cherries have anti-inflammatory properties which are useful for gout-stricken patients.
- Dietary supplements containing fish oils and other essential fatty acids help in bringing down the body’s uric acid levels.
- Gout sufferers should eat an apple after every meal, drink diluted lime juice three times a day, or drink string bean juice everyday for one month.
- Other major risk factors for gout attacks are obesity and lack of exercise. Maintain and lose your weight by eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly.
- Wrap ice in a towel and cover it around the joints or other areas that are swollen or inflamed. This helps in numbing the joint and reducing the swelling fast.