[Top] Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid deposits in the joints. Uric acid, found naturally in the body, is formed by a breakdown of purines, a component of foods we eat.
Although it is characteristically associated with the big toe, it can occur in any joint and is enormously painful and debilitating.
According to a news report from the Web site Health and Age, middle-aged men with Gout that have elevated levels of uric acid in their blood are at greater risk of dying from heart disease. The complete story here: Gout Increases Risk of Heart Disease Mortality
What Causes Gout?
[Top] Genetics may be involved, as 18% of people with Gout have a family history of the disease. Men are more likely to develop it, but women become very susceptible following Menopause.
Consumption of too much alcohol may lead to Gout, as it interferes with uric acid elimination from the body.
Events such as Heart Attacks, Strokes, or surgery may cause Gout.
Being obese puts you at greater risk of developing this disease.
Crash dieting may leave your body more susceptible to get this disease.
There are numerous foods that cause excess uric acid production. Here is a partial list:
Red meats
Fried foods
Hot dogs
Roasted nuts
Any food cooked in oil
Cakes
Cauliflower
Mushrooms
Dried fruits
Specific medicines can cause increased uric acid production. Medicines such as Aspirin, immunosuppressants used in organ transplantation such as Neoral, Sandimmune and Prograf may increase production.
[Top] The first Gout home remedy we will discuss is a spice called Turmeric.
The element in Turmeric making it a useful Gout home remedy is Curcumin. It is thought to inhibit production of prostaglandins, which are involved in pain.
In the November 2006 issue of Arthritis and Rheumatism, a study was published documenting the effectiveness of Turmeric for Gout.
In this study, results show that Turmeric was able to prevent Arthritis in laboratory mice, even after the Arthritis had been induced.
[Top] Fish Oil is a valuable Gout home remedy. It won't replace any prescription medications you take, but you should be able to safely add it.
Its main ingredients are Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids. Our bodies require them but must obtain them from our diet, as we are unable to produce them ourselves.
Its main components are EPA and DHA. These ingredients function to minimize inflammation and pain.
Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids are also found in seafood, but, so are purines. This is a good reason to take capsules instead, as they don't contain purines. go to Omega 3 Fatty Acids...
3) Cherries
[Top] Cherries are an additional Gout home remedy.
Cherries are beneficial because they contain Flavanoids. Flavonoids are a broad group of compounds defined by color. Originally, they referenced yellow citrus fruits.
Flavonoids contain a powerful antioxidant called Anthocyanidin.
In a study done by the Agricultural Research Service, volunteers were given a breakfast of 45 Bing Cherries. Five hours later, they discovered blood levels of uric acid had fallen somewhat, but urine levels had risen appreciably.
Another study, done by Michigan State University, found Anthocyanidins decreased inflammation and helped the body expel uric acid though urine.
[Top] Devils Claw is another Gout home remedy that could prove effective. Devils Claw is a plant native to South Africa and is named for the small hooks covering its fruit.
In one study, 122 people were given Devil's Claw to see if it reduced their osteoarthritic pain. It was as effective as a leading European pain medication in reducing pain and improving functionality.
In another study, 75 people were given Devils Claw at a dosage of 2400 milligrams daily for 12 weeks. Significant pain reduction was noted.
If you've ever been awakened in the middle of the night with a burning pain in your big toe, you may be having a Gout attack. Talk to your doctor about your condition and see if any remedy mentioned above may help.
Keep in mind that many physicians lack a herbal mindset, and may need a little nudging to try something new. Regardless, get his approval before trying any of the remedies mentioned above.
Remember, these remedies are not meant to replace any medicines prescribed by your physician.
We sincerely hope you are able to manage your Gouty Arthritis.