Foods That Help Stop Gout

Gout is a painful form of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals that deposit in the small joints of the hands and feet, primarily the big toe. The disease can be crippling during an acute attack. Although food plays a major role in causing gout, certain foods may also relieve symptoms of inflammation, swelling and stiffness, as well as prevent future gout attacks. Always consult your physician before using food remedies to treat a serious health condition.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a mild acid, but when consumed it helps create an alkaline-forming condition in your body, writes Dr. Theodore Baroody in "Alkalize or Die." When your blood and urine are slightly alkaline, uric acid cannot form into the crystals that can develop into both gout and certain types of kidney stones. It is more easily excreted through the natural elimination process. Apple cider vinegar is easy to incorporate into your diet as a salad dressing, and in pickles and sauces. You can make a mixture of 2 to 4 tbsp. apple cider vinegar and 8 oz. water to drink once or twice a day. If the vinegar is too strong, lower the amount and work your way up to at least 2 tbsp. for best results.

Tart Cherry Juice

Many people relieve their gout symptoms by drinking tart cherry juice or eating about 8 oz. of cherries daily, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Tart cherry juice is high in antioxidants and anthocyanins, which help reduce inflammation. People who ate one half pound of cherries a day for 10 weeks reported a significant reduction in their symptoms. Although many people prefer tart cherries, there is no evidence that they are better for treating gout than sweet cherries. Fresh, canned cooked or in juice form, cherries may bring you needed relief and prevent future gout attacks.

Black Bean Broth

Black bean broth is high in anthocyanins and antioxidants, and may help you if you suffer from gout, says Gout Pal. The nutrients in black beans have been found to help reduce inflammation and swelling in painful joints. Cook a pound of black beans in 2 quarts of water for about 1 1/2 hours. Let it cool, and pour off the broth. You can save the beans for another meal and drink the broth, which may help reduce your pain. Have a cup or two of broth daily during an acute gout attack, and continue to drink a cup daily thereafter to help prevent future attacks. Leftover broth stores well in the refrigerator. Some people are sensitive to the effects of beans and bean broth, so add a dose of digestive enzymes to your diet whenever you consume the broth. The enzymes, made especially for the digestion of legumes, may help prevent flatulence and abdominal cramping.