Gout is a painful condition. It is caused by uric acid levels in the body that are higher than they should be. Gout typically occurs when the body makes too much uric acid, or when the body has difficulty getting rid of the uric acid that is produced. Once too much uric acid builds up around the joints, uric acid crystals will form. These crystals cause inflammation in the joints. Gout is most commonly associated in the big toe.
- Here are some of the steps you can take to prevent gout:
- Drink filtered water:
- One of the most natural way of preventing gout is to drink water. Water keeps you from getting dehydrated and prevents uric acid crystals from forming. Water also flushes extra acid from the kidneys which helps prevent future gout attacks. It is recommended to drink twelve 8 oz. glasses of water a day.
- Consume low fat dairy products:
- In 2005, a Harvard study was performed to “evaluate the relationship between dietary factors and serum uric acid levels.” The study showed that when dairy products were consumed, the levels of uric acid in the body significantly decreased.
- Eat dark berries:
- Darker berries like blueberries, blackberries, purple grapes, and raspberries are great for preventing gout. They work the same way as most of the foods on this list, by lowering the amount of uric acid that the body produces.
- Include Vitamin C in your diet:
- In 2005, a study was done at Johns Hopkins University to determine the effects of vitamin C supplementation on serum uric acid concentrations. After the placebo-controlled experiment was performed, they concluded that vitamin C supplements significantly decreased levels of uric acid.
- Eat fresh organic vegetables:
- Including fresh organic vegetables is crucial for preventing gout. Dark leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables are especially effective against gout because of their high levels of vitamin C.
- Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
- REFERENCES:
- “The Effects of Vitamin C Supplementation on Serum Concentrations of Uric Acid: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, June 2005. Web. 10 Feb. 2013.
- Lidell, Amy. “Are Blueberries Good for Gout?” LIVESTRONG.COM. Livestrong, 19 July 2011. Web. 10 Feb. 2013.
- B, Eunice. “How to Reduce Gout By Drinking Water.” LIVESTRONG.COM. Livestrong, 4 Mar. 2011. Web. 10 Feb. 2013.
- Board, A.D.A.M. Editorial. “Gout.” PubMed Health. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 28 June 2011. Web. 10 Feb. 2013.
- “Intake of Purine-rich Foods, Protein, and Dairy Products and Relationship to Serum Levels of Uric Acid: The Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, Jan. 2005. Web. 10 Feb. 2013.
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