Apple cider vinegar has been used in numerous home remedies for just about every condition, even though there is little to no scientific evidence to prove its benefits. For instance, some proponents say you can treat gout or minimize its symptoms with vinegar. If you have gout, it's best to see your doctor for a thorough evaluation and treatment plan, rather than try to self-treat with vinegar.
Gout or Gouty Arthritis
Gout is a form of arthritis in which uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints and cause pain, inflammation and swelling. In some people, the buildup of uric acid in the body might be linked to eating foods very high in protein, such as organ meats. Standard treatment for gout involves making dietary modifications, losing weight and exercising often.
Apple Cider Vinegar and pH Balance
When attempting to treat gout, the key is to restore pH balance to the body, according to Thomas Baroody, author of "Alkalinize or Die." You need a slightly alkaline pH to be healthy and prevent or treat gout, and drinking apple cider vinegar may help accomplish this, Baroody says. The effects of alkalinization on gout have not been studied, but proponents think the vinegar prevents uric acid from clumping together to form crystals at the joints and helps flush them away if they've already formed. No scientific research has been conducted to verify this claim, however.
Vinegar Gout Remedy
You should never drink apple cider vinegar on its own because it can burn your throat and esophagus. "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies" recommends mixing 1 cup of water with 2 tbsp. of vinegar and drinking it up to twice a day to flush away uric acid and treat gout.
Considerations
Drinking apple cider vinegar could make your gout symptoms worse at first, according to Baroody. This occurs because the process of dissolving the uric acid crystals can increase inflammation and pain temporarily. If your gout does not respond to treatment efforts or if the pain is severe and limits joint mobility, see a physician right away.
References
- MedlinePlus; Gout
- "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies"; Joe Graedon, M.S., et al.; 2002
- "Alkalize or Die"; Theodore A. Baroody, D.C., N.D., Ph.D.; 1991
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