1. Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Than Breads and Animal Products
Gout results from a combination of an excess of uric acid in the bloodstream and inadequate water to keep the uric acid suspended in solution. When this occurs, the uric acid precipitates out and forms crystals that can settle in the joints and tissues, causing pain, inflammation and damage.
Uric acid is the metabolic waste product of the digestion of proteins, particularly animal proteins such as meat, milk, cheese, eggs and rich, dairy-based sauces and dressings. Fruits and vegetables yield different metabolic waste products that are more alkaline than acidic in nature. Not only do they not form irritating crystals, fruits and vegetables even help the kidneys in eliminating the acid wastes, such as uric acid, from the body. Fruits and vegetables provide minerals the kidneys need to excrete the acidic wastes.
Therefore, limiting your intake of animal products, breads and pastries and increasing your intake of fresh whole fruits and vegetables can reduce the occurrence of gout.
2. Restrict Your Intake of Coffee and Alcohol
The consumption of coffee and alcohol is dehydrating, and causes the body to lose its precious minerals and water via urine. This can reduce the mineral and water content of the whole body and concentrate the normal uric acid in the bloodstream, making it more likely to precipitate out as crystals. Avoid these beverages as much as possible, replacing them with plain water, herbal teas and diluted fruit juices.
3. Stay Well Hydrated
If you have experienced an episode of gout, immediately increase your fluid intake. Replace coffee and alcohol with water and herbal teas. If you find the thought of plain water less than exciting, try cutting an orange into slices, placing it in an empty pitcher and covering it with cold water. To help kick the coffee habit, find bulk flavorful herbs, place them in your coffee filter instead of coffee and brew as usual. Chamomile, mint, licorice, hibiscus and fennel are all popular flavors. Dilute your fruit juices. Try filling 1/3 of your glass with pomegranate, cherry, raspberry or another juice and filling the remaining 2/3 with sparkling mineral water.
About this Author
Dr Jill Stansbury is a Naturopathic Physician in Washington state with 20 years of clinical experience. She lectures and writes widely throughout the US to share her research and experience in the use of natural and preventative medicines.
