11 Gout Treatments That Work

Gout is a complex and common type of arthritis which can affect anybody. The exact cause of gout is not known, but it occurs when there is an excess build-up of uric acid in the blood or the body has a difficult time eradicating the uric acid. The next thing that happens is the uric acid will accumulate in the joints, leading to inflammation that causes pain and discomfort. This medical condition can be very painful and has been linked to an increased incidence of metabolic and cardiovascular disease. The pain of gout is the same as osteoarthritis, but with distinct differences. A gout attack usually rises quickly and the symptoms can keep on returning after a while. Gout is characterized by intense pain, stiffness, and swelling of the joint.

According to reports by the Center for Disease Control, about 8.3 million Americans were diagnosed with gout between ‘07 and ‘08. Medications such as corticosteroids, ibuprofen, and colchicines may help manage gout symptoms, but there are home remedies which work wonders as well. Unlike taking medicine, natural remedies for gout come with no side effects and can be used to effectively treat gout. When you are diagnosed with gout, it is advisable you seek treatment right away. The following are 11 gout treatments that work.

  1. Celery Seed Extract

Taking celery juice and celery seed extract is the first home remedy for gout. Studies have shown that celery seed extract can reduce uric acid build up in a gout patient’s body. As a result, celery seed extract can be used to treat various conditions which are worsened by inflammation, like gout, joint pain, urinary tract infection, skin disorders, liver, and kidney infections among others.

  2. Ginger

Ginger, which is a nutritious herb, is a culinary food that is used to treat various inflammatory conditions. The benefits of using ginger to treat gout are also well documented. A study conducted in the past showed that ginger can help reduce pain associated with uric acid in gout. A different study involving rats showed that ginger has the properties to reduce high levels of uric acid.

  3. Black Cherry Juice

One of the main health benefits of cherries is that it can be used to treat gout. To enjoy this benefit, you can take either a cherry juice extractor a black cherry juice. A study was conducted where 633 patients were given a cherry extract over a two-day period. The results showed that a cherry extract reduced gout attack by 35 percent. Adding black cherry juice to your diet can help eradicate gout for good.

  4. Coffee

Coffee has a strong antioxidant known as chlorogenic acid, which is known to improve insulin sensitivity. When the level of insulin is low, uric acid levels will decrease, leading to lower risk of gout. The caffeine, which is contained in coffee can also protect you against gout. This is because caffeine substance has a similar structure to allopurinol, which is used to prevent gout.

  5. Magnesium

Magnesium is an alkaline mineral which is known to reduce the formation of uric acid in the body. Studies have also backed this up and have shown that magnesium is effective in treating acute gout. You are more susceptible to get gout if you are showing signs of magnesium deficiency. It is advisable you take magnesium supplements or add magnesium-rich food to your diet if you want to get rid of gout.

  6. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is one of the simplest and natural home remedy for gout. This natural treatment is used to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. The acidity contained in this vinegar can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. For you to enjoy this benefit, take one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and add to a glass of water. Drink this two to three times per day to enjoy the benefit of apple cider vinegar.

  7. Bananas

The benefits of bananas are well documented. When you take bananas it can help improve digestive health, support heart health, and aid weight loss. Bananas can also serve as a good gout remedy. This food is packed with high potassium levels, which can convert excess uric acid in the body into a liquid, which is then removed out of the body via urine.

  8. Baking soda

Baking soda is used in treating gout because it reduces the pain associated with gout and the amount of uric acid in the body. To enjoy the benefit of baking soda, mix half a tablespoon of baking soda in water, then drink four times per day for two weeks. However, if you are above 60 years, only drink this mix of baking soda three times daily.

  9. Activated charcoal

Studies have shown that activated charcoal has a big potential in treating gout. Activated charcoal absorbs high uric acid, which helps to reduce the adverse effects of gout in the body. You can create a paste with water and charcoal powder and apply to the affected toe. This can help reduce the pain associated with gout.

  10. Cold water

The benefit of applying a cold substance is that it can help reduce the swelling which comes when you have gout. Rather than applying ice to the affected area, it is advisable you use cold water. Ice is not recommended because it can damage your skin and worsen the condition.

  11. Prescription and non-prescription medicines

Nonprescription drugs such as naproxen and ibuprofen can help reduce swelling and pain in the joints which can arise during a gout attack. The prescription drugs you can use include Allopurinol to reduce uric acid production, Colchicine to reduce inflammation, and Lesinurad to help your body remove uric acid when you urinate.

The above natural remedy may help treat gout and reduce the pain associated with the condition. As the old adage goes, prevention is better than cure, you can take the following dietary measures to prevent gout attacks in the future. First, drink plenty of fluids like water and reduce sweetened beverage. Second, avoid or limit alcohol intake. Third, reduce your intake of meat, poultry, and fish to tolerable amounts. Low-fat dairy products are the best place to get your protein. Following these preventative measures can help reduce the risk of a gout attack.