Gout causes a flare-up of painful arthritis pain in the joints, caused due to build-up of high levels of uric acid in your blood and muscles. It is a metabolic disorder that leads to the formation of uric acid crystals in your joints and kidneys, which leads to flare-ups.
What kind of diet should be followed?
More of a plant-based diet, the focus should be on including more phytonutrients and fulfilling your protein needs as well majorly coming from plant sources like legumes, dals. Although it is not advised to have poultry products, animal foods like fish is an exception as it helps provide omega-3 fats which are known to reduce inflammation. So, consider eating fatty fish though in moderation.
A wholesome diet, free of refined cereals, or other processed foods which gives rise to inflammation should be completely avoided. Many vegetable oils are high in omega-6 and oils, which are high in omega-3 should be used instead, to reduce the increased level of inflammation.
Coloured fruits and vegetables should be part of the diet as they help provide fibre, antioxidants, minerals needed to improve overall health and make blood more alkaline.
What do studies suggest? A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology in 2016, people were made to follow the DASH diet for 30 days and following it helped lower the uric acid levels to 0.35 mg/dL on average.
Also, vitamin C helps lower uric acid levels, due to its antioxidant activity and having citrus fruits, but not fruit juices. Fruits with high vitamin C are - oranges, kiwi, guava, lemons, gooseberries.
It has also been studied that having cherries may reduce gout attack.
People who are obese or overweight reflect more flare-ups, and it is highly suggested to reduce weight and leading a healthy active lifestyle.
Effective home remedies:-
- Include Milk thistle seeds
- Garden cress seeds should be included.
- Ginger tea and ginger juice in water are effective in reducing inflammation in joints while helping reduce swelling.
- Cherries should be eaten
- Lemon juice in water helps reduce uric acid levels.
To conclude, gout is a painful condition, characterised by severe pain in the joints, big toes due to the formation of uric acid crystals. Diet can help reduce the symptoms and improve the condition considerably and therefore the suggested modifications should be made.
REFERENCES
- PATIENT INFORMATION LEAFLETS. Oxford University Hospitals. NHS Foundation Trust.https://www.ouh.nhs.uk/patient-guide/leaflets/default.aspx
- Australian Dietary Guidelines.eatforhealth.gov.au