Conventional & Natural Help for Gout...

The Conventional Route...

Help for gout with pain relievers such as Tylenol or other more potent analgesics are used to manage pain and get help for gout.

Anti-inflammatory agents such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are used to decrease joint inflammation, but common side effects of NSAIDS include:

• irritation of the gastrointestinal system
• stomach ulcers and intestinal problems
• and even intestinal bleeding

Probenecid (Benemid) and sulfinpyrazone (Anturane) are medications that are commonly used to decrease uric acid blood levels by increasing the excretion of uric acid into the urine. Since these drugs can cause kidney stones, patients with a history of kidney stones should seek other options in their search for help for gout.

Allopurinol (Zyloprim) lowers the blood uric acid level by preventing uric acid production, but medication is used with caution in patients with poor kidney function, as they are at a particular risk of developing side effects, including rash and liver damage.

The Natural Route...

Herbal and homeopathic remedies have been used for centuries to treat a number of conditions, including gout. Harpagophytum procumbens (indigenous to the Kalahari Desert and is exclusive to Africa) has been used for many years to promote joint health and stability.

Glucosamine sulphate has been approved for the promotion of joint and cartilage health in more than 70 countries throughout the world, while Boswellia serata extracts address swelling joints, pain and tender tissues naturally, without side effects.

Scientists recently reported that high animal protein slightly increased the risk for gout. Others found that dietary calcium intake may protect patients from getting gout attacks.

The optimal regimens for the treatment of acute gout attacks and chronic gout conditions still require further long-term studies.

Research scientists will continue to develop less toxic and more effective medications to battle this “scourge of the ages.”

Helpful tips might include...

Don’t:

• Eat large amounts of red meat and seafood

• Consume alcoholic beverages regularly or in excess. Alcohol can inhibit the excretion of uric acid. If you’re having a gout attack, it’s best to avoid alcohol completely.

• Eat organ meats (liver, brains, kidney and sweetbreads), anchovies, herring and mackerel – they are particularly high in purines.

Do:

• Eat more low-fat dairy products

• Eat more complex carbohydrates, such as whole-grain breads

• Choose portions that allow you to maintain a healthy weight. Losing weight may decrease uric acid levels in your body. But avoid fasting or rapid weight loss, since doing so may temporarily raise uric acid levels.

• Drink plenty of liquids. Fluids help dilute uric acid in your blood and urine, so be sure you get enough water and other fluids every day.

• Get enough Vitamin C. A sensible amount of vitamin C is recommended – as high doses of vitamin C may increase your body’s uric acid levels. Talk to your doctor about what a reasonable dose of vitamin C may be. And don’t forget that you can increase your vitamin C intake by eating more fruits and vegetables, especially oranges.

• Eat Cherries. Cherries have been associated with lower levels of uric acid in studies, but it isn’t clear if they have any effect on gout signs and symptoms.

• blackberries
• blueberries
• purple grapes
• and raspberries, to your diet may be a safe way to help for gout, but discuss it with your doctor first.