Taming purine levels and the possibilities of gout flares
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that results in pain and discomfort in the various parts of the body such as knees, ankles, and toes. Scientists are yet to find the cure for gout, but the use of various medications and natural remedies can help to fight gout and alleviate the pain and discomfort it causes.
Gout is caused by excessive accumulation of uric acid in the body. Uric acid is formed when the body tears down purines contained in foods.
Incorporating changes in your diet can help to tame purine levels and the possibilities of gout flares.
Drinking Enough Water
One of the symptoms of gout is excessive swelling and inflammation. Taking plenty of water is one of the remedies to combat swelling.
Increased water intake prompts a person’s kidneys to secrete surplus fluid, which can alleviate swelling in a person’s ailing from gout.
Water is not only the fluid that helps to fight gout, but there are others such as herbal teas and broths. People suffering from gout should keep off sugary drinks such as sodas due to their high content of purines.
However, those with heart and kidney underlying conditions should consult with their Physicians before adding up fluid intake.
Taking Plenty of Fish
Fish is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds that improve a person’s health and wellbeing. Studies have revealed that there are various types of fish that help in containing uric acid levels.
Researchers have established that consuming tuna extract can aid in alleviating a person’s uric acid levels. Although no scientific facts are backing these findings, it’s important to incorporate fish in your diet.
Nutritionists have failed to agree whether tuna is ideal for people experiencing gout. Some argue it contains extra purine which leads to the build-up of uric acid when breakdown.
Tuna is not the only type of fish that is rich in purine, others include sardines, cod, and anchovies.
Coffee Intake
Researchers have found out that people who drink coffee are less likely to suffer from gout. This is due to its ability to minimize uric acid levels.
However, medics discourage excessive consumption of coffee, though it reduces the risk of contracting gout.
Taking Extra Cherries
Studies have revealed that increased consumption of cherries can lower the risk of contracting gout by 30%.
Cherries are packed with anthocyanin’s, the anti-inflammatory compounds. Cherries intake alleviates the symptoms of gout and can be taken as whole cherries, cherry derived supplements, or cherry juice.
Studies further revealed that cherries consumption in conjunction with medication lessened gout pain and discomfort by 75%.
One of the benefits of cherries is their ease of accessibility as they can be obtained in most supermarkets and can even be ordered online.
Apples
Apples are categorized as one of the natural foods capable of lessening the impact of gout in our bodies. They are rich in malic acid which combats uric acid.
However, there aren’t scientific facts backing these claims. Additionally, apples are packed with fructose, which may stimulate hyperuricemia, thereby worsening gout.
Consuming one apple daily is ideal for entire health. It may be somewhat beneficial for gout, as long as it doesn’t increase your daily sugar consumption.
Bananas
Researchers have found bananas ideal for gout. They’re potassium chockful, which improves the functioning of body tissues and organs.
However, bananas contain fructose, which can give rise to gout. Besides bananas, there are plenty of foods rich in potassium and low in sugars such as avocadoes, dark leafy greens, and many more.
Excessive consumption of bananas is prohibited. Only take the right amount that is beneficial to the body.
Elevating the affected joints
Gout can result in pain and swelling, and in most cases, it affects ankles, knees, feet, and hands.
Elevating the affected joints is one of the ways of mitigating swelling. This prompts blood and fluid circulation in the joint, to and from the heart.
This can be done with the help of an ice-park along with elevation to mitigate gout symptoms.
Epsom salts
Researchers recommend gout sufferers to take a bath of Epsom salts to attenuate the effects of gout on their bodies.
Epsom salts are packed with magnesium, which lessens the possibilities of contracting gout. However, some studies have demonstrated that magnesium can’t be sufficiently absorbed via skin to accord the body any significant health benefits.
To give it a try, add 1-2 cups of Epsom salt in your bath. Soak the whole body or certain joints for pain relief.