BY CLAIR WHITTY
Gout is a type of arthritis that causes pain and swelling. It happens when high levels of uric acid build up in the body and form needle-shaped crystals in and around the joint leading to inflammation of the joint. Gout is commonly seen in your big toe but can happen in other joints in the body. Not everyone with high levels of uric acid will develop gout.
It can take time for the uric acid to build up and over time you can start to have flare ups. These can come and go on their own, lasting days, weeks, or even longer. During a flare up you can have periodic attacks of intense pain and swelling in your joints. A flare up can start suddenly at night with intense pain bad enough wake you up.
Certain food and drink promote uric acid production including red meat, highly processed foods with saturated fat, and alcohol. Also avoid shellfish, herrings, sardines, organ meats, and yeast as these foods can cause uric acids to accumulate. I would also reduce or avoid sugar and caffeine during flare ups.
Aim to have high fibre whole grains, nuts and seeds in particular flax seeds. Eat fruit, especially berries like blueberries and cherries, and plenty of vegetables. Add barley grass and wheatgrass powders to your food as they will help keep the blood alkaline. Turmeric spice can be added to your foods or drinks. Swap your cup of tea for a cup of Nutra Uric Cherries & Nettle Tea, it contains cherries, nettle, and turmeric.
One of our customers’ favourite supplements is Active Edge Montmorency Cherry a concentrated juice made from tart Montmorency cherries. It is amazing how many people find it good and use it regularly to help keep things under control. Other supplements that may help reduce uric acid include Celery or Nettle juice. I would choose Salus Juices as there is nothing added or taken away. You can add them to water, sugar free juice, or tea. Some people find apple cider vinegar helpful when taken regularly.
Gout is a painful condition that you may be able to keep under control with changes to your diet, lifestyle, and some additional supplements. For more information give us a call or pop us an email.
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Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre
Phone: 056 7764538
Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie
