Gout is a disorder that occurs when the defective metabolism of uric acid causes arthritis in the small bones of the feet. The usual symptoms are swollen and stiff feet, accompanied by extreme pain.
Gout is caused by uric acid overload in the joints due to inefficient waste elimination or its accumulation. Uric acid is a byproduct of purines, compounds present in many foods.
Elevated levels of uric acid (hyperuricemia) in the blood are frequently seen in cases of gout, but that doesn’t mean that people with hyperuricemia will surely develop the disease.
When the kidneys cannot eliminate the uric acid, it crystallizes and deposits in the joints, causing inflammation. Thankfully, there are a few natural remedies that can help you remove the uric acid and improve the condition. Changing your diet and lifestyle is a big step towards it.
The diet should consist of fresh fruit and vegetables, lean meat, seafood and whole grains. Reduce the intake of processed sugars like fructose corn syrup, foods with saturated fat and alcohol.
Drinking lots of water also helps – this will keep the body properly hydrated and eliminate the toxins and excess uric acid. Keep hydrated with water, natural juices, fruit infused water or herbal tea, and make sure that you’re not stressed.
Here are some natural tonics that will relieve the condition:
Baking soda is a great weapon against gout. Make a mixture of half a teaspoon of baking soda in half a glass of water and drink it on a daily basis. If you’re suffering from gout attacks, increase the dosage to a full teaspoon in the mixture.
An alkaline environment in the body will prevent gout, so you must ensure that you’re consuming alkaline foods and beverages. Lemon juice is the drink that can help you achieve that and prevent the formation of uric acid crystals. Squeeze half a lemon in a 200 ml. glass of warm water and drink the solution every morning.
Apple cider vinegar also increase the body’s alkalinity thanks to its malic acid content. This acid disintegrates the uric acid and eliminates it from the body. Add a tablespoon of ACV in 200 ml. of water and drink the mixture on a daily basis before lunch and dinner.
The following three foods are best for prevention of gout:
- Curcumin, the active compound of turmeric, offers renal protection and acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.
- Bromelain is present in pineapples and has strong anti-inflammatory properties and analgesic effects.
- Flaxseeds offer amazing health benefits, and can also reduce the uric acid serum in subjects.
