health

Foods that help you treat gout

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid, which can lead to severe pain. It leads to extreme discomfort in the ankles, toes and knees, with the big toe being the most common site of attack. While there is no cure for the condition, there are some medications that can help keep it under control. Aside from this, changes and several inclusions in the diet can greatly help affected individuals. Some natural treatments for gout that one can try at home are:

  • Tart cherry juice or cherries: Studies have shown that cherries in any form; sweet, black, red, sour, extracted as a juice, or raw, have a great potential to be used as a home remedy for the treatment of gout. Two studies conducted in 2012 also show that cherries might be able to prevent gout attacks altogether. The above research recommends that about three servings of cherries in any form over the span of two days is likely to be effective in reducing the chances of one contracting gout.
  • Ginger: Ginger is extremely useful in reducing inflammation due to gout. It can be consumed by steeping 2 teaspoons of ginger root in boiling water for about 10 minutes. 3 cups of the above preparation are recommended in one day. Ginger can also be applied topically to relieve pain. However, this can irritate the skin and it should be tested on a patch of skin first.
  • Mixture of lemon juice, turmeric, and apple cider vinegar in warm water: The mixture of these three substances in warm water makes for a great beverage and also acts as a natural gout treatment one can try at home. Research supports the fact that lemon juice and turmeric are capable of reducing uric acid levels. Juice from half a lemon, 2 teaspoons of turmeric, and 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar should be mixed in warm water. This mixture can be taken 2–3 times a day.
  • Nettle tea: This is a type of herbal tea that can reduce inflammation and pain caused by gout. This can be prepared by steeping about 1–2 teaspoons of dried nettle in one cup of boiling water. 3 cups of this herbal tea can be consumed daily.
  • Magnesium: A study from 2015 has shown that adequate levels of magnesium in the body are associated with healthier levels of uric acid and can reduce the risk of gout. Hence, magnesium-rich food substances should be included in one’s regular diet plan.
  • Fish: Fish is known to contain anti-inflammatory compounds which can reduce the symptoms of gout along with uric acid levels. A study done in 2016 showed that consumption of tuna reduced the serum uric acid levels in the subjects. More research is required on the topic as the subjects of the study did not have gout. Types of fish included in the diet plan should first be checked for purine levels. Fish with high purine levels should be avoided at all cost.