Gout is caused by a build-up of uric acid crystals in the body’s joints and tissues. It is frequently associated with arthritis and shares many of the same symptoms as arthritis, including swelling and pain. Gout flare-ups are painful and, in some cases, debilitating. Recent medical developments have led to gout treatment via prescription medication, but these are not your only option. There are natural ways to lessen the severity of pain, reduce the length of an attack, and even completely avoid a flare-up.
When an outbreak occurs, it is important to rest, elevate the affected area, and monitor your diet. Though you might be tempted to take an over-the-counter pain relief medication, it is important to speak with your doctor first. Products containing aspirin can change the uric acid levels in your system and worsen the problem. Other medications might lead to increased uric acid, too.
People who are at risk for stroke and heart attack sometimes face issues with gout because they take niacin and low-dose aspirin. Diuretics might also cause uric acid build-up.
Sometimes lifestyle changes are all that is needed to prevent outbreaks from ever occurring. Overweight people are at a higher risk for developing gout. A balanced diet that helps maintain a healthy weight is best for preventing gout outbreaks. Avoiding alcoholic beverages, especially beer, as well as seafood and meat, also reduces risk. These foods and beverages are high in purines, which many believe worsen the effects of gout.
Fruits and Vegetables as Gout Treatment
Food is one of the most common ways to treat gout naturally. A variety of fruits and vegetables alleviate symptoms and prevent outbreaks. Eating about 20 sweet or sour cherries each day reduces your risk for gout. Cherries are rich in antioxidants and relieve inflammation. Over time, you will be able to eat fewer and fewer fresh cherries without worrying about a flare-up.
Apples, bananas, and limes are also fruits that can be used for gout treatment. Apples contain malic acid, which is believed to neutralize uric acid. Eating an apple after each meal might help eliminate your symptoms.
Some people who suffer from gout have found banana fasts eliminate their symptoms. For a period of no more than four days, sufferers can eat a diet of nine bananas each day. The banana fast helps get symptoms under control and prevents future outbreaks
In limes, the combination of citric acid and vitamin C ease the pain and inflammation of gout. This is one of the easiest options for treating gout and requires only the intake of the juice from half a lime in a glass of water, twice each day.
In addition to fruit, gout sufferers can also use vegetables to ease their symptoms. Raw vegetable juice featuring carrot, cucumber, and beetroot consumed daily lessens the effects of gout.
Other Natural Remedies for Gout Treatment
In addition to foods, there are also topical remedies for gout. Combine charcoal and water to make a paste for soaking. Do this for up to an hour to relieve the pain associated with gout. Other paste recipes that offer pain relief for gout include mustard powder, wheat powder, and water, as well as ground ginger and water.
Herbs are another effective option for treating gout. Herbs such as white willow bark, meadowsweet, and devil’s claw root contain anti-inflammatory properties and relieve pain. Other herbal remedies for gout include feverfew, cayenne, and licorice. Remember, herbs might be natural, but they are still potent. Work with a certified herbalist or naturopathic doctor, especially if you are taking other medications.