Natural solutions for painful gout

Gout is an extremely painful arthritic type condition which occurs when excess uric acid crystallises around joints and soft tissue. It can come on suddenly without warning; you may experience inflammation, heat, pain, and swelling. Some will also have a fever and fatigue. Commonly it’s seen in the big toe but you can also get it in your knee, thumb, or elbow.

Contributing factors that increase the incidence include lifestyle and dietary choices, antibiotics, steroids, excess weight, and diabetes. Aspirin can alter the blood uric acid level, and high levels of B3 may elevate uric acid levels. Men over thirty are more prone than women. Triggers can include stress, infection, and surgery. Certain illnesses increase uric acid production like psoriasis or blood disorders.

Avoid foods which promote uric acid production including red meat, rich fatty foods, and alcohol. Also avoid shellfish, herrings, sardines, organ meats, and yeast as these foods can cause uric acids to accumulate. It’s also wise to avoid sugar, white processed foods, and caffeine during a flare up, if you’re prone to fungal infections.