Gout is a form of arthritis that attacks the small joints of the hands and feet, predominantly the big toe. It develops because of the deposit of uric acid crystals in the joints, which create swelling; inflammation; and severe, debilitating pain. Research has found that eating cherries or drinking tart cherry juice may be helpful in relieving inflammation and reducing pain for gout sufferers. Cherries are available in a variety of forms and must be consumed on a regular basis for maximum benefit.
Potassium, Alkalinity and Gout
Cherries and other foods high in potassium are helpful in relieving gout symptoms due to the effect they have on the kidneys, according to Dr. Theodore Baroody in "Alkalize or Die." Potassium is an integral component in an alkaline-forming diet and helps the kidneys keep uric acid in suspension and from forming crystals, Baroody adds. When the urine and blood are slightly alkaline, acidosis is less prevalent and uric acid passes from the body in urine rather than depositing in crystals in the joints. When using foods to treat serious diseases, always consult first with your health practitioner.
Types of Cherries
Research has found that cherries in any form, whether raw, canned or cooked, may relieve gout pain, according to the University of Michigan Health System. People who consumed about 8 oz. of cherries daily reported a significant reduction in swelling, inflammation and pain after several weeks. Eating any kind of cherry, including sweet, tart, dark red, orange or white, should provide gout patients relief from symptoms; however, tart cherries appear to be most effective. In addition, it doesn't matter whether the cherries are fresh, frozen, canned or stewed. The nutrients contained in the cherries will work toward producing curative effects.
Tart Cherry Juice
Alkalizing your body by drinking a glass or two of tart cherry juice daily may completely relieve your gout symptoms, writes Baroody. During an acute gout attack, "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies" recommends drinking two glasses of cherry juice daily, then reducing to one glass daily as a maintenance dose to prevent future attacks. Cherries are high in high in anthocyanins, antioxidants and potassium, all nutrients that act to reduce inflammation and contribute to alkalizing the body, says Baroody. An alkaline-forming state is not only helpful in reducing gout pain, but may also reduce inflammation contributing to other forms of arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions.
Tart cherry juice comes in concentrate and as diluted juice. Always use it unsweetened and in its pure form without other juices or ingredients added. If you use concentrate, dilute it according to the bottle recommendations. In most cases, the ratio is one part cherry concentrate to two parts water, recommends "The People's Pharmacy." If you are using prepared cherry juice, it may need to be diluted in a 1:1 ratio. For variety, add soda water or seltzer, or create a hot tea and use spices such as cinnamon.
Cherry Supplements
Some people prefer using supplements rather than drinking cherry juice or eating cherries. Cherry supplements are available in capsules and snack bars, notes
"The People's Pharmacy." However, they are not as effective at reducing gout symptoms as is drinking cherry juice or eating cherries. Most cherry supplements contain high levels of vitamin C and quercetin, two powerful antioxidants. Standardized cherry extract is also available at health food stores, with the recommended dose being 2,000 mg daily taken in two or four doses per day. If you prefer taking cherry supplements, speak to your health practitioner first for recommendations on dosing pertaining to your specific needs.
References
- "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies"; Joe Graedon, M.S., and Sifu Teresa Graedon; 2002
- University of Michigan Health System: Gout
- "Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease"; Maurice Shils; 2005
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gout
- "The Acid Alkaline Balance"; Felicia Drury Kliment; 2002
