A gout is a form of arthritis that is caused by excess uric acid in the bloodstream. This uric acid, once its level gets too high, can form into crystals that lodge in and around the joints thus causing a gout attack which is associated with severe and painful swelling.
Here are some natural ways to reduce uric acid levels in the body and prevent gout flare-ups.
Avoid Consumption Of Alcohol And Sugary Beverages
These beverages have been associated with an increased risk of gout and add extra calories to our diet, which can cause weight gain and metabolic issues.
Sugary drinks and sodas are loaded with fructose and glucose-containing sugar. Also, high fructose corn syrup usually has 42% glucose and 55% fructose.
Our body can quickly absorb fructose from refined juice sugar in juice or other foods as compared to the foods that have natural makeup that needs to be broken down in our body. Due to the faster absorption of refined sugars, we experience spikes on blood sugar levels and higher amounts of uric acid.
Eat More Low-Purine Foods
Doing this can help keep our uric acid levels in check and lower the chances of experiencing gout flare-ups. Consume more peanut butter, nuts, fruits, vegetables, coffee, potatoes, and low-fat and fat-free dairy products as well as oyster, shrimp, crab, and lobster.
Opt For A Fiber-Rich Diet
Help the body get rid of uric acid by eating more fiber-rich foods. Fiber is known to help balance insulin levels and blood sugar as well as increase satiety thus lowering our risk of eating too much.
It is recommended to at least consume 5-10 grams of soluble fiber a day.
Coffee Against Gout
Coffee consumption is one of the natural ways to reduce the risk of gout. It works by lowering uric acid levels through several mechanisms and increasing the rate that our body excretes uric acid.
In a study, results revealed that women who consumed one to three cups of coffee daily have experienced a 22% reduced risk of gout as compared to those non-drinkers. Also, researchers found that more than four cups of coffee consumption a day may lead to a 57% reduced risk.
Eat More Cherries
Present in cherries is vital nutrients for a healthy and long life.
Results of a study showed that consumption of these deep red stone fruit for two days (at least 10 cherries) can help prevent gout attacks by up to 35%.
Maintain A Healthy Body Weight
Obesity increases our risk of elevated blood uric acid levels thus raising the risk of gout. Aside from this, obesity also raises our blood pressure and cholesterol levels and increases the risk of heart disease.
Maintain a healthy weight, be more active, eat a balanced diet and opt for nutrient-dense foods.
