Every day, more and more individuals suffer from gout, brought on by uric acid accumulation in the body. The body produces the acid when it metabolizes purines contained in foodstuff. When uric acid levels are too high, crystals form that the body may deposit in all tissues. The crystals accumulate in the joints, particularly the ankles, toes, and knees, leading to pain, irritation, and inflammation. Gouty arthritis symptoms include redness, swelling, and joint pain, especially in the big toe. Although the condition has no known treatment, natural remedies can help keep gout at bay:
1. Applying ice
If you have a gout attack, putting ice on the painful region might help. To minimize the swelling caused by gout, place an ice pack wrapped in a towel over the affected joint and leave it there for 20 to 30 minutes. Doing this can help reduce swelling and inflammation and help manage any pain.
2. Eating tart cherries
Several studies have shown that eating fresh cherries of any kind may help alleviate the discomfort of gout. To effectively alleviate gout discomfort, consume three servings of cherries over two days. Furthermore, you can minimize gout-flare ups by consuming cherries and juice regularly for at least four months or longer.
3. Drinking plenty of water
One of the best strategies to avoid gout attacks is to drink enough water. If you are dehydrated, your body produces more uric acid, which in turn causes more gout attacks and discomfort. However, increasing your fluid intake may stimulate your kidneys into excreting extra fluid, which lessens swelling. If you struggle to drink water, consider increasing your celery, cucumber, lettuce, and watermelon intake, or drink clear liquids like broths and herbal teas
4. Reducing stress
Higher levels of stress might intensify your gout symptoms. Although removing all sources of stress from your life is difficult, learning to manage stress during stressful periods may help alleviate the discomfort of gout. When you’re feeling extremely stressed, do something that enables you to relax, such as taking a day off work, reading a favorite book, or engaging in other low-impact activities, if the pain is not limiting your mobility. Getting a good night’s sleep will also help you feel less anxious.
5. Drinking coffee
Several studies have found that drinking moderate amounts of coffee, particularly caffeine-laced coffee, can reduce your risk of developing gout. A 2016 study and meta-analysis also found that coffee drinkers had a lower risk of gout due to coffee’s ability to reduce uric acid levels. However, you should consult your physician about the ideal daily coffee intake.
6. Turmeric
Turmeric can be a helpful home remedy for gout. It contains curcumin, the primary active ingredient, and is an effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. A 2019 study published in Arthritis Research & Therapy found that curcumin inhibited a protein called NF-kappa B in animals. Gout is one of the inflammatory diseases in which NF-kappa B plays a significant role. Therefore, adding more turmeric to your diet may help reduce swelling and discomfort from gout.
7. Heart health fats
A healthy gout diet should include vegetables, low-sugar fruits, whole grains, legumes, and dairy, as well as non-fatty alternatives like yogurt and skim milk. Moreover, vegetable oils, avocados, nuts, and salmon are excellent sources of heart-healthy fats. They contain many omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and are thus helpful in treating gout.
The frequency and intensity of your gout flare-ups may significantly reduce if you combine these natural treatments with your doctor’s prescribed gout medication. You should never stop taking your gout medication without discussing it with your doctor. Also, see a doctor immediately if your gout pain is severe, new, or worsening despite your best efforts of relieving it at home.