Eating Well to Prevent Gout
Gout is a complex form of arthritis that can affect anyone.
What is Gout?
Gout is characterized by pain and redness in the joints. Gout most commonly effects the base of the big toe (as shown in the picture). Men are more at risk than women, but once a woman goes through menopause their chances are raised. Affected joints are red, swollen and tender, just the weight of a sheet can be unbearable. Gout is caused by someone who has a higher than normal uric acid has build up of uric acid at a joint. But, gout is completely treatable and preventable.
Six Foods that Help Prevent Gout
Drink about 8 to 16 cups of water a day.
2 to 4 liters is the equivalent
Only eat low-fat or fat-free dairy.
This can reduce a man's chance of getting gout by 50%.
Pineapple
Pineapple has anti-inflamatory properties.
Cherry Juice
Eating lots of fruit especially cherries can be beneficial to people who experience gout.
Bananas
Bananas are one of the best foods for the prevention of gout.
Ginger
Helps to calm inflammation caused by uric acid.
How to Treat & Prevent Gout
Medications commonly prescribed to treat gout:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Colchicine
- Corticosteroids
Medications to prevent gout:
- Medications that block uric acid production
- Medication that improves uric acid removal
Diet changes to help with the prevention of gout:
- Eating lower amounts of fat.
- Eating a moderate amount of lean meats.
- Eating only low-fat and fat-free dairy products.
- Avoid alcohol.
- Eat only 4 to 6 ounces of fish, meat and poultry
A Gout Fighting Smoothie
Ingredients
- 31/2 frozen strawberries
- 1/2 bananas (sliced)
- 1/4 cup fresh raspberries
- 1/4 cup blueberries (frozen)
- 1/8 red apple (cored, peeled & chopped)
- 1/8 cup Cherry juice
- 1/8 cup orange juice