Gout is a complex form of arthritis characterized by deposits of uric acid crystals in the body which affects the joints. Uric acid is a substance formed when the body breaks down purines, it is a vital element for DNA synthesis, circulation, digestion and absorption of nutrients. The blood transports uric acid to the kidneys and the excess amount is excreted out. When the kidneys cannot eliminate the excess uric acid, it gets deposited in the body causing gout, also called hyperuricemia. It mostly affects men after 40 years, however, it triggers in women post-menopause. Also Read: Gout: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
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Causes Of Gout
There is no specific cause for gout, but many underlying factors can increase the risk of this painful disorder which include:
Genetics - a family history of gout increases your risk.
Age and gender - men after the age of 40 years are more prone than women.
Weight - a person who is overweight, the risk is higher.
Diet – consuming food that is rich in purine content such as red meat, organ meat, herring, mushrooms, scallops, anchovies, and asparagus.
Alcohol - excess alcohol intake affects the body’s mechanism of eliminating uric acid.
Exposure to metals like lead.
Certain health conditions like hypothyroidism, hypertension, Kelley-Seegmiller syndrome or Lesch-Nyhan syndrome increases the risk.
Intake of certain medications.
Stages of Gout
Gout is categorized into four stages:
Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia: In this stage blood uric acids is elevated without any other symptoms.
Acute Gout: In this stage, uric acid starts to build up in the joints resulting in swelling, pain and tenderness. In most cases, gout attack starts at night and prolongs for 3-10 days.
Interval Gout: This stage is in between the acute gout attacks when the patient does not show any symptoms.
Chronic Gout: With the accumulation of uric acid for the prolonged duration it results in permanent damage to the joints associated with intense pain.
Generally, gout affects one joint at a time, however, if left untreated it may trigger other joints. Some of the most common symptoms associated with gout include swelling, penetrating joint pain which causes inflammation, redness which commonly observed in toes, ankles, fingers, wrists and knees.
Mother Nature has bestowed upon us with amazing ingredients that work wonders in easing the symptoms associated with gout. Add these amazing foods in your daily diet to get respite from swelling and painful joints.
5 Super Foods For Alleviating Gout
Cherries
Vast reserves of anthocyanin and ascorbate in cherries have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which lower the risk of a gout attack. As per the study conducted by Boston University, a person with gout who had consumed cherries over 2 days had a 35% lower risk of gout attack than those who did not take the fruit. It is recommended to consume three servings of cherries or cherry extracts to minimise the risk of a gout attack (one serving contains 10-12 cherries).
Papaya
The goodness of enzymes papain and chymopapain in papaya possess strong anti-inflammatory effects which help in easing inflammation and reduces swelling in the joints. It also helps in getting rid of excess uric acids from the body by increasing the alkalinity. Besides these, it is packed with antioxidants beta-carotene and vitamin C which helps to reduce inflammation and mitigates pain and redness in the joints. Also Read: Best Health Benefits of Eating Papaya
Celery Seeds
The plethora of nutrients present in celery seed such as iron, manganese, calcium and other bioactive compounds support in curing gout. Luteolin, 3-n-butylphthalide and beta-selinene notable plant compound in celery reduce uric acid levels in the blood and lower inflammatory nitric oxide production which aggravates gout attack. Add celery seeds in the diet in the form of juice, extracts or seeds.
Ginger
Ginger is a versatile herb well-known for its potent medicinal and culinary purposes. The powerful anti-inflammatory effects of ginger reduce inflammation, swelling and lower the blood uric acid levels and confer respite to gout attacks. Take one inch of ginger, steep well in a cup of water for 5-10 minutes and drink this powerful concoction regularly to get relieved from joint pain.
Lemon
Lemons and lemon juice is proven by studies that have an amazing natural remedy for curing gout. Ample amounts of vitamin C and antioxidants in lemons reduce inflammation, breakdown the uric acid deposits in the blood by increasing the pH of urine and helps in clearing out uric acid. All you have to do is consume lemon juice 2-3 times in a day to ease gout pain.
Avocados
One of the most nutrient-dense fruit, avocados are rich in healthy fats, Vitamin B6, and potassium besides being packed with anti-inflammatory compounds like phenolic compounds, carotenoids, vitamins C and E. All these are effective in reducing inflammation and curbing gout flares.
Coffee
Coffee is one of the best ways to flush uric acid out of your system. Regular intake of caffeinated coffee can help lower the risk of gout.
Bananas
A high potassium source, bananas are low in purines and high in Vitamin C, which makes them one of the ideal food sources if your uric acid is high. Eating one banana every day can be helpful to reduce the uric acid in your blood, thus reducing the risk of a gout attack.
Home Remedies
Natural home remedies work amazingly well to ease the symptoms associated with gout such as pain, stiffness, redness and inflammation. These ingredients are readily available in your kitchen cabinets and offer you much-needed respite.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek is a highly valued spice used extensively in traditional medicine for treating several health woes. The potent anti-inflammatory effects of fenugreek aid in lessening internal and external inflammation of the body and ease joint pain.
Pro Tip:
Soak 1 tbsp fenugreek seed in a cup of water overnight and have that water in the morning on an empty stomach. This works wonders in reducing the swelling and pain in the joints.
Castor Oil
Castor oil helps in improving blood circulation and breaking down the toxic deposit of uric acid that alleviates pain and redness. Apply warm castor oil and massage it on the affected regions to lessen inflammation and pain.
Garlic
Garlic is an incredible herb for curing gout. It aids in eliminating excess uric acid from the system and reduces inflammation. Crush 1-2 cloves of garlic and then consume it to get respite from joint pain.
Carom Seeds
Carom seeds help to flush out toxins and uric acid from the body. Boil 1 tsp carom seeds in a cup of water and drink this concoction twice daily to alleviate joint pain and swelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Initial Signs Of Having Gout?
The common signs of gout include:
Sudden, intense pain in a joint (commonly the big toe)
Swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area
Stiffness and difficulty moving the joint
The pain usually develops at night or early morning and can last for a few hours or days.
What is Stage 1 of gout?
Stage 1 of gout is known as asymptomatic hyperuricemia. During this phase:
Uric acid levels in the blood are high, but no symptoms are present.
There are no visible signs of gout, but the elevated uric acid can eventually lead to crystal deposits in the joints and trigger an attack.
What Is The Fastest Way To Flush Gout?
To flush uric acid and alleviate gout quickly:
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help eliminate excess uric acid.
Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.
Consume foods rich in vitamin C or supplements, as they can reduce uric acid levels.
Avoid alcohol and purine-rich foods (like red meat and shellfish) during flare-ups.
Can Hot Water Compression Reduce Gout?
Hot water may provide temporary relief by relaxing the muscles and improving circulation, but it doesn’t directly reduce gout symptoms or lower uric acid levels. Cold compresses are usually more effective during an acute gout attack for reducing inflammation and pain.
What is the secret remedy for gout?
There isn’t a single secret remedy, but some effective natural options include:
Cherries bestowed with potent anti-inflammatory properties can lower uric acid.
Apple cider vinegar may help reduce uric acid levels when consumed regularly.
Natural anti-inflammatory qualities in ginger and turmeric can reduce pain and swelling.
What is the best drink to be taken on an empty stomach for uric acid?
The best morning drinks for managing uric acid include:
Drinking lemon water aids in alkalizing the body and may lower uric acid levels.
Green tea: Contains antioxidants and can help with uric acid control.
Chlorophyll or celery juice: Known for their detoxifying effects and support in flushing out excess uric acid.
Is curd good in uric acid?
Yes, curd (yogurt) is generally good for uric acid management as it is low in purines. Also, the goodness of probiotics can improve gut health and help regulate uric acid metabolism.
Is egg good for uric acid?
Yes, eggs are low in purines and can be safely consumed by individuals with high uric acid.
Conclusion:
Gout, though a painful condition can be effectively managed and also prevented from worsening further by adding these natural foods and following an appropriate diet. If pain persists and symptoms worsen then seek immediate medical attention.
(This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu, Ayurveda Pharma Expert)
Author Profile:
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5624445/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2210803313000511
