Gout Information And Diet For Gout Patients
Increase in the serum uric acid levels or accumulation of uric acid crystals in the blood results in a condition, referred to as gout or gouty arthritis. Early identification of the condition helps in treatment. Untreated gout results in tophi, or uric acid crystals under the skin. Obesity, hypertension and alcohol abuse are some of the common triggers of gout. An attack of gout lasts from a few hours to a few days. The symptoms worsen with cold weather. Inflammation, tenderness and redness are the typical symptoms of gouty arthritis.
Treating Gout With Home Remedies For Gout
High sources of purine are shell fish, organ meat, lentils and peas. Low carbohydrate and high protein diets are not suggested, as they increase the purine intake. Uric acid levels can also increase as a result of fasting. Citrus fruits are effective for gout patients, as they reduce the uric acid levels. Raspberries, cherries, blueberries, grapes and blackberries are some of the fruits that are recommended for gout. Green leafy vegetables, in addition to carrot, beans and beetroot prove beneficial. Vegetable juices, such as beet, beans and carrot are also highly effective against gout. Boiled cabbage can be used as a poultice, thrice a day. It is an excellent remedy for gout. About three to four garlic pods per day also serves as a useful home remedy. The consumption of three to four apples is advised. Grapes are also helpful, as they help in the elimination of uric acid. A complete banana diet is equally remedial in gout treatment. In chronic cases, the individual is put on a diluted orange juice diet. Follow it up with a fruit diet. Junk foods, such as pizzas, burgers, crisps and carbonated beverages are advised against.
Certain precautionary measures that might decrease the risk of gout are:
- Decrease excess body weight in a gradual manner
- Keep yourself well hydrated,
- Eat a low fat diet and say ‘no’ to cholesterol in the diet,
- Yoghurt and non fat milk are helpful, and
- Restrict the intake of alcoholic beverages.
Maintenance of weight helps in reducing uric acid levels. Heating pads provide temporary relief. Herbs, such as Boswellia serata and devil’s claw remove irritation and provide relief from pain. Cold packs help to relieve pain and swelling. Increased water intake helps to flush the uric acid out. Using a walker helps to keep the weight off the joint. Keep the affected joint in an elevated level. Rest them over a stack of pillows or any other support.