Dietary flavonoids are small organic molecules that are found in many fruits and vegetables. There are many potential benefits for dietary flavonoids including reducing inflammation and protecting against heart and neurological diseases. In addition, flavonoids may also help to alleviate other medical conditions such as gout.
Benefits of Flavonoids
Flavonoids consist of a large family of organic compounds that are also known as polyphenols. Flavonoids can only be synthesized in plants, which means that you can only get them from your nutritional intake. Diets rich in flavonoids appear to reduce the risks associated with cardiovascular disease due to their effects on blood pressure and cholesterol. Due to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and chelation effects of flavonoids, there is evidence to suggest that these compounds protect against some age-related neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease
Causes and Symptoms of Gout
Uric acid is a waste by-product formed from the metabolic breakdown of certain molecules called purines. Normally your kidneys filter and excrete uric acid from the body. Individuals who generate excess uric acid or do not filter it fast enough will experience an accumulation that crystallizes in the joints. The formation of uric acid crystals causes painful arthritic inflammation in the joints, usually in the feet and toes, in a medical condition called gout. According to PubMed Health, symptoms of gout include pain in the joints of the toe, knee or ankle that occur more often during the night time. Gout is usually diagnosed by X-ray and measurement of uric acid levels in the urine and blood.
Gout Treatments
According to MayoClinic.com, there are several types of medications that are prescribed to treat the complications associated with gout. Anti-inflammatory drugs, both steroidal and non-steroidal, are commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation caused by gout. Drugs that induce uric acid removal enhance the kidneys' filtering ability. Other medications block the synthesis of uric acid by inhibiting an enzyme called xanthine oxidase.
Effect of Flavonoids on Gout
Flavonoids may be an alternative therapy for individuals who have gout. Flavonoids have been shown to reduce inflammation, which is a major symptom of gout. Additionally, some flavonoids naturally inhibit xanthine oxidase, which reduces the synthesis of uric acid. According to a review published in the July 1999 issue of "Nutrition Science News," flavonoids found in several alternative extract supplements such as chamomile, yarrow and mint, are extremely effective xanthine oxidase inhibitors and may improve the symptoms associated with gout. Regardless of the potential benefits, you should always consult with a medical health professional prior to considering any alternative treatment for gout.
