Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by an excess of uric acid in the blood that collects around the joints in the form of crystals and causes soreness, stiffness, redness and swelling. Often times flare-ups, or attacks, can take place and the residual pain can last days later. These flare-ups are often the result of eating certain foods or beverages. Medication can be used to reduce the symptoms but the condition can also be treated without the use of drugs.
Instructions
1. Avoid purines. These are substances that produce uric acid in the body. These are found in foods like sardines, anchovies, liver, shellfish, lentils and red meat.
2. Drink lots of water. Two things water does is flush the body of impurities and lubricate the joints. The Institute of Medicine recommends drinking 3 liters a day for men and 2.2 liters a day for women.
3. Reduce alcohol. Alcohol can cause an over abundance of acid in the system which can trigger gout flare-ups. Keep alcohol to a minimum or avoid it altogether. If you are going to drink, do it in moderation. The American Heart Association defines moderation as 1 to 2 drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women.
4. Lose some weight. Being overweight can put a lot of stress on the joints which can exacerbate gout pain. Limit your caloric intake and also perform non impact exercise such as elliptical training, stair stepping, rowing and swimming. This will also improve your joint range of motion.
5. Eat some cherries. According to the Mayo Clinic, eating dark-colored fruits such as cherries, blackberries, raspberries, purple grapes and blueberries have been known to lower uric acid levels in the body.
Tags: uric acid