Gout
Description
Gout is a form of arthritis marked by sudden, severe pain, swelling, and inflammation in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toes, ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and hands. The condition is caused by the buildup of uric acid in the body, which can form sharp, needle-like crystals in the joints when levels become too high. Normally, uric acid is eliminated through urine, but factors such as poor diet, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications can increase uric acid levels beyond what the body can process. Gout attacks are characterized by intense pain, redness, and swelling, which can last for days or even weeks if left untreated. Managing gout involves lifestyle changes, including reducing the intake of purine-rich foods like red meat and shellfish, staying well-hydrated, and losing weight if necessary. Early diagnosis, along with medical treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications, can help control flare-ups and prevent long-term damage to the joints.
Body System
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1. Potassium: Potassium helps neutralize excess acid and maintain a balanced pH, which can prevent uric acid crystals from forming in the joints. This action supports joint health by reducing crystal buildup and alleviating discomfort during flare-ups.
2. Omega 3: Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, lowering uric acid levels and decreasing joint inflammation. By minimizing swelling, omega-3s can protect against flare-ups and support long-term joint function.
3. Vitamin C: Vitamin C promotes uric acid excretion through the kidneys, helping to lower its levels. Its antioxidant properties also protect joints from oxidative stress, potentially reducing the frequency of flare-ups.
4. Magnesium: Magnesium improves uric acid solubility and supports kidney function, helping to maintain healthy levels and reduce the risk of crystal formation in the joints.
5. Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 promotes purine metabolism, helping to regulate uric acid production. This role aids in preventing crystal buildup and reducing flare-ups.
6. Probiotics: Probiotics support gut health by helping to break down purines, reducing uric acid levels. A balanced microbiome may lower inflammation and decrease the frequency of flare-ups.
1. Sour Cherry Extract: Sour cherry contains anthocyanins, which have been shown to lower serum uric acid by inhibiting xanthine oxidase activity. This reduction helps prevent the formation of crystals in the joints, supporting better mobility and comfort.
2. Curcumin: Curcumin inhibits xanthine oxidase, reducing uric acid production while also lowering oxidative stress in the body. Its anti-inflammatory properties further support joint health by decreasing swelling and preventing crystal formation.
3. Quercetin: Quercetin helps regulate uric acid levels by inhibiting xanthine oxidase, reducing oxidative stress, and lowering inflammation. These combined effects protect joints from discomfort caused by crystal buildup.
4. Bromelain: Bromelain, an enzyme from pineapple, reduces pro-inflammatory molecules and promotes the breakdown of proteins that contribute to joint inflammation. This action helps ease swelling and supports improved joint movement.
5. Alfalfa Extract: Alfalfa contains phytochemicals like saponins and flavonoids, which inhibit xanthine oxidase. This reduction in uric acid levels helps limit crystal formation in the joints, easing discomfort and improving mobility.
6. Garlic Extract: Black garlic, through fermentation, enhances antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting joint health. Anecdotal evidence suggests it may help alleviate discomfort.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar inhibits the conversion of xanthine to uric acid, helping to lower its levels. This reduction supports joint health by limiting crystal formation, offering a natural approach to managing discomfort.
1. Acupuncture: Acupuncture promotes the flow of energy (Qi) along meridians, helping to relieve pain and inflammation. Key points like ST36 (Zusanli), located below the knee, and LI4 (Hegu), found between the thumb and index finger, may support joint health. While still being researched, acupuncture may also help regulate uric acid levels.
2. Ayurveda: Ayurveda combines dietary changes, herbal remedies like turmeric and ashwagandha, and lifestyle practices to reduce inflammation and support joint health. This holistic approach addresses the root causes by balancing doshas, promoting long-term wellness and comfort.
Supplements
Plant Extracts
Natural Compounds
Alternative Treatments
Symptoms & Signs
Causes
Increased Synthesis of Purines, Inability to Excrete Uric Acid, Impaired Kindey Function, Lead Toxicity
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How Nutrients Function
Electrolytes: Electrolytes carry charged ions essential for transmitting nerve impulses, regulating muscle function, and maintaining fluid balance. They are pivotal in supporting hydration, nerve signaling, and overall physiological balance.
Fatty Acids: Fatty acids serve as energy sources, structural components of cell membranes, and precursors to signaling molecules. Essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, play critical roles in brain function, cardiovascular health, and inflammation regulation.
Fruit Extracts: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, fruit extracts offer numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and immune-boosting properties. They also support digestive health and contribute to overall well-being.
Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Minerals: Minerals are essential for various physiological functions, including bone health, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. They support overall health by ensuring proper cellular function and metabolic processes.
Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed. They support gut health, immune function, and oral hygiene by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens.
Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.
Nutrients Explained In Nutritional Guide
Podcast Episodes To Listen To
Educational Videos To Learn From
Functional Lab Tests That You Might Consider
References
Things To Do
For gout, apply the following dietary changes:
During an arthritic pain attack, consume only raw vegetables and fruit. You can juice them as well.
Focus on consuming alkaline foods [such as vegetables and fruit]. They promote uric acid excretion.
include produce high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruit, cherries, berries, dark leafy greens, bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, etc.
Drink diluted celery juice. It is effective in alleviating arthritic pain and aches. Use distilled water to dilute the juice.
consuming dark red, blue, and purple fruits, such as berries, cherries, or hawthorn berries. Their contents of anthocyanidins and proanthocyanidins [flavonoids] boost collagen production and have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Eat foods low in purine, such as eggs, whole grains, milk, cheese, nuts, seeds, seaweed, and olives.
Stay hydrated by drinking water and herbal teas.
Always choose whole foods in your diet. Opt for organic produce when it is available.
Furthermore, try:
ice packs for painful joints.
losing excess weight. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of excess uric acid buildup in the joints. However, do not follow any crash diets. A quick loss of kilograms can be counterproductive and increase the levels of uric acid in the system.
During a pain attack, elevate the affected joint and rest a lot.
maintain healthy blood pressure and glucose levels.
Things To Avoid
For gout, it is essential to avoid the following:
foods high in purine, such as organ meats, mincemeats, meat extracts, gravy, anchovies, mackrel, herring, roe, yeats, etc.
sugar, and products and beverages that contain any form of sugar. Sugar is highly inflammatory. It will make your condition worse.
alcohol, which increases uric acid production.
Refined carbohydrates also increase uric acid production.
Saturated fat promotes uric acid retention.
fried, roasted, or any foods cooked with oil.
meats, which are rich in uric acid.
high-protein intake, which accelerates uric acid synthesis.
processed, junk, and fast foods.
Additionally, avoid the following:
aspirin for pain relief. In gout, aspirin can inhibit the excretion of uric acid.
Prolonged antibiotic use and chronic candida infections can contribute to increased uric acid.
smoking that causes inflammation.