Tackling Gout

Gout is a common form of arthritis occurring due to excess uric acid in the blood which crystalizes, taking on the shape of glass shards which jab into the joint causing severe pain and inflammation which can be crippling.

 Gout is closely linked to dietary factors but there are also genetic influences which play a role.  It effects approximately 90% males and is diagnosed through examination of joint fluid and blood tests measuring uric acid levels. 

 Gout tends to occur in short attacks; medication from the GP is available as a preventative approach but is not always effective and can have side effects

 

Dietary Changes

A general recommendation for treatment and prevention of Gout is a diet high in alkalizing and anti inflammatory foods. Being predominantly vegetarian with lots of nuts, seeds, wholegrains & vegetables is a good start.

 

Berries, especially cherries neutralize uric acid and have loads of anti-oxidants.  There are commercially available cherry juice concentrates (Natures Goodness or Lakewood)  You can dilute these and drink them daily, perhaps blend it with celery juice which has anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties
 

Avoid foods high in Purines (which convert to uric acid) these include anchovies, mackerel, shellfish, sardines, peanuts, minced meat, organ meats, gravy and sweet breads.

 

Drink plenty of water but limit caffeine, sugary drinks and alcohol as well as fried foods

 

 

Supplement Options 

  As a daily regime Gout sufferers should consider the following:

 

¨ A high dose Omega 3 supplement.  We recommend Pure Oil Innovations Opti-strength Omega, Bioceuticals Ultraclean EPA/DHA or Ethical Nutrients High strength Fish oil.  4 capsules daily.

¨ Vitamin C 1000mg 3x daily

¨ Digestive Enzymes, particularly Bromelain which helps break down protein and is also anti-inflammatory

¨ Drink teas including alfalfa, chamomile, birch, burdock, peppermint, skullcap and yarrow

¨ Herbs of Gold make a specific formula including Cherry, Celery, Alfalfa, Vitamin C, Potassium and magnesium.  This is a great option as a preventative but can be used at a higher dose for flare ups.

 

 

 Acute Flare-Ups

 

· Eat predominantly raw fruits and vegetables including juices, berries, distilled water

· Drink more water and include cherry juice

· Use anti-inflammatory herbal supplements including Boswellia, & Tumeric.  We recommend Nutrition Care Nalgesic Ultra or Mediherb Boswellia complex.

  

 

SUPER GOUT FREE DAILY JUICES

· 2 CARROTS, 2 APPLES, 2 CELERY STALKS

· 2 CARROTS, 2APPLES, CABBAGE, GINGER

· PINEAPPLE, CARROT, GINGER, CABBAGE

· CHERRIES, CUCUMBER , FILTERED WATER

· 2 APPLES, 1 BEET,  CUCUMBER,  1/4 LEMON