Gout is a type of arthritis that usually starts in the big toe and works its way to the other joints. It is caused from a buildup or uric acid in the body. This normally gets flushed out of the system through urine, but in gout sufferers, it turns into urate crystals, which pool up at the joints, causing pain, redness, stiffness and inflammation. You can treat gout by taking a natural approach.
Reduce Purines
Purines are substances in foods that the body converts to uric acid. A natural way to prevent gout flare-ups is to cut out high-purine foods from your diet. Examples of these are liver, kidney, red meat, processed meats, shellfish, sweetbreads, anchovies, sardines and poultry. Switch to unprocessed and unrefined foods.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol can inhibit the excretion of uric acid and it is best to avoid it completely, advises the Mayo Clinic. This especially goes for alcohol that has yeast in it, like beer.
Drink Water
Water keeps you hydrated, aids in digestion and it can prevent you from overeating when you have it with meals. When it comes to gout, water can help dilute uric acid and flush it from your system. The Institute of Medicine recommends that women get approximately 2.7 total liters of water a day and men get approximately 3.7 liters.
Eat Dark Fruits
Eat dark pigmented fruits like blueberries, blackberries, purple grapes, raspberries and cherries daily to prevent flare-ups and lower uric acid levels, advises the Mayo Clinic. These can be in fresh, frozen or canned form.
Increase Vitamin C Intake
According to the Mayo Clinic, vitamin C supplements can help flush uric acid from your body. But before you use them, talk to your doctor to get the right dosage. Excessive intake can cause uric acid levels to increase. You can also get vitamin C naturally in oranges, grapefruits, red peppers and lemons.
