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There are several types of arthritis, one of which is gout. It manifests as severe joint pain, especially in the feet. In addition, swelling and redness occur and fever may also set in. Gout can be caused by excessive consumption of alcohol or carbonated drinks, an unhealthy diet, injury, infection, dehydration of the body and similar factors. All these factors lead to an accumulation of uric acid in the blood.
How does gout develop?
In up to ten percent of patients, heredity is the cause of the disease. High levels of uric acid in the blood often go hand in hand with high blood pressure, obesity and high blood sugar levels. This also increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore it is advisable to adopt a proper lifestyle and dietary measures.
Uric acid in the blood is produced by the metabolism of purines, which are then transported to the kidneys and excreted in the urine. However, the kidneys may not always fully process uric acid, so it crystallizes and accumulates around the joints. This causes gout. There are many ways to get rid of gout naturally.
A drink that provides relief
One way to reduce and calm inflammation and pain is to soak the feet several times a week in an Epsom salt solution. Alternating hot and cold compresses applied for fifteen minutes at a time, every two to three hours, also help. This reduces swelling. Drinking a beverage that lowers uric acid levels in the blood will also relieve pain.
You will need:
- A piece of ginger root about 5 cm long
- One medium grapefruit
- 1 cup chopped pineapple
- Cucumber
Simply put all the ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Consume this drink once a day. Results will appear very soon. In addition, this elixir will help you absorb calcium and free you from bone and joint problems. You will get plenty of necessary vitamins into your body. However, fruit and vegetables should be consumed without cooking.
What to consume and what to avoid?
Try to maintain your fluid intake and drink at least two liters of fluids daily. Alcohol, coffee and sweetened drinks do not count toward the fluid intake. Include dairy products in your diet (except aged and mold cheeses) and also diuretic vegetables, for example celery. Conversely, consumption of chocolate and other sweet pastries, offal, hot spices and legumes in excessive amounts is not appropriate.
Alcohol also contains a large amount of purines, so it should be limited as well. Coffee can be consumed in limited amounts. Traditional natural remedies include cherries and strawberries, whether fresh or preserved as compote. Among dietary supplements, aloe vera juice, vitamin C, bromelain, alfalfa and nettle extract are commonly used.
Untreated gout leads to complications
With improper or neglected treatment, kidney disease and the formation of kidney stones can occur. In extreme cases the kidneys can fail completely. Various urinary tract diseases, headaches or muscle pain, bloating, diarrhea, eczema and splitting nails also often occur.
