Gout is the kind of arthritis that is caused by deposition of uric acid crystals between the joints of hands, feet and the knee. Our body produces uric acid as a byproduct of the breakdown of purines, which are chemical compounds present in almost every kind of food that we eat. The kidneys filter out and eliminate the uric acid through urine. But there comes a time when the amount of uric acid gets so high that it is not possible for the kidneys to eliminate all of it at a time. The uric acid begins to build up in the body. This phenomenon is known as hyperuricemia. It ultimately results into crystals of uric acid getting deposited in the spaces between the joint, causing swelling and pain. This condition is called as gout.So if you ask what causes gout, the answer would be increased levels of uric acid in the blood. However, what triggers the acidosis or pH imbalance is far from known. Gout attacks are very painful because the crystals have sharp edges that poke into the surrounding tissues and causing them to hurt and swell. A gout attack usually lasts for 6-10 days. It is the big toe of the foot that hurts the most. People suffering from gout have said they even the slightest touch causes excruciating pain in the toe.Gout treatment is an ongoing process. But there are some home remedies for gout that you can try in conjunction with your medical treatment for further alleviating the symptoms. Let’s take a look.
Consume Apple Cider VinegarThe apple cider vinegar has curative properties for several ailments like acidity and headaches. People who have gout can consume it with some water on a daily basis to ease the intensity of their condition. Simply mix a couple of teaspoonful of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it. Do so twice or thrice a day to get positive results. Make sure you use the raw apple cider vinegar. To enhance the taste and boost your body’s ability to fight the inflammation, add some honey.
Drink Lemon WaterLemon juice is proven to take the edge off the gout pain. Consuming freshly-squeezed lemon juice from half a lemon with a glass of warm water every morning helps fight uric acid accumulation. This remedy helps in the long run. The Vitamin C from the lemon makes your body strong, which is an added benefit.
Soak in Epsom Salt BathEpsom salt baths are quite popular among many people. Usually, they add a couple of cupfuls of Epsom salt in their bath tub and soak themselves in the warm water. The magnesium from the Epsom salt is known to soothe the aching muscles and lower the high blood pressure, making the person feel relaxed.Epsom salt can be used to treat gout symptoms. You can soak the affected area in warm water laced with sufficient amount of Epsom salt. Else, try the bath tub method I just mentioned. Stay in for several minutes till the water begins to cool. To experience the magical effect of Epsom salt, trying this remedy once or twice a week on a regular basis.
Have Some CherriesCherries are loaded with anti-oxidants. It doesn’t matter whether they taste sweet or sour. Having a handful of cherries every day ensures better management of the condition. Anthocyanins are the compounds found abundantly in cherries that boosts the anti-inflammatory responses of your body.
Drink Beetroot JuiceBeetroot juice is known to reduce the intensity of acidosis, which translates to less uric acid build up. Drink a glass of freshly made beetroot juice to keep the acidosis in check. Beet juice has detoxifying properties that set the liver and kidneys in motion to flush the toxins. Please note that beetroot juice can cause irritation if you have a sensitive tummy. If that is so, then do not try this remedy.
What to Avoid?Foods with high purine content should be avoided at all costs; otherwise it can cause a gout attack or gout flare-up. Spinach, asparagus, mushrooms, pulses, red meat, organs, seafood and bacon etc. are rich in purines. However, you can consume veggies and meat with low to moderate purine content. Please do not go overboard and eat in moderation. Talk to your doctor for more advice. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages and drink plenty of water to flush out the toxins. Eating right forms the major part of managing gout effectively.If at all should your gout flare up, stay in bed. Don’t move a lot and let your joints rest. Putting more weight on your painful joints would worsen the condition. Always wear comfortable shoes. Take your medication on time and avoid heating or icing the affected area.Gout is a lifelong condition and managing it well is the only choice left to stay as pain-free as possible. We hope these natural gout remedies and the preventive measures would prove useful for you.