Naturopathic treatment for gout is extremely successful in decreasing pain and inflammation associated with gout. The goal is to reduce overall levels in the body of uric acid, the problematic substance, which causes gout. Eliminating uric acid forming foods and following a regimen to decrease inflammation while providing supplemental support can prevent gout attacks and reoccurrances.
History
Gout is predominantly found in men in their 50s that are overweight with a high alcohol intake. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III (NHANES), obesity is on the rise with higher consumption of meat, fatty foods and a more sedentary lifestyle. The extra weight and fat storage elevates levels of uric acid in the body, which can then accumulate in the joints causing pain, inflammation, redness and extreme sensitivity.
Prevention
Avoiding foods that increase uric acid levels will relieve symptoms of gout. Foods to be eliminated are organ meats and sweetbreads, meats, meat gravies and broths, shellfish, brewer's and baker's yeast, herring, sardines, mackerel, mussels, anchovies, legumes, peanuts, spinach, asparagus, poultry and mushrooms. Alcohol also exacerbates gout by reducing uric acid elimination and slightly increases its production. Alcohol should be avoided and you should increase water intake to dilute the system and aid in elimination.
Supplementation
Black cherry juice, whole cherries and celery seed extract (Apium graveolens) can help decrease inflammation associated with gout. Cherries are flavonoids and have proanthocyanidin effects while celery seed is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Vitamin C can help to eliminate the formation of uric acid causing gout and some kidney stones.
Treatment
Colchicine (Autumn Crocus) is a plant remedy commonly used in treating gout as it acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory. Colchicine can stop acute attacks in as quickly as 12 hours. It is especially beneficial for people who cannot tolerate Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs(NSAIDS). According to Dr. Thomas G. Benedek in his article, "Gout: An Historical Sketch," Colchicine has been used for centuries to affectively treat gout.
Considerations
Elevated levels of uric acid in the body due to untreated gout can eventually cause irreversible damage to the joints and have serious affects on the kidneys. The most commonly affected joint is at the great toe, and less common, mid-foot, ankle, knee, wrist and fingers. You should see your doctor immediately to diagnose any inflamed, painful joints to make sure you are not dealing with a more serious condition or infection.
References
- Klippel, John, H., M.D., Primer on the Rheumatic Diseases, edition 11, Arthritis Foundation, 1997.
- Gout and Hyperuricemia
- Recent Developments in Diet and Gout: The Impact of Obesity on Gout
- Gout: an historical sketch
