Gout

 

Home Remedies for Gout

Gout is considered to be a form of arthritis. The problem of gout comes about because of a build up of uric acid. This is like a needle of crystal uric acid lodges between bones or joints. That is what it feels like too. Sufferers know it is excruciating.

The joints most commonly affected are the toes, elbows, fingers, heels, instep and wrist.

Gout is actually more serious that the pain that is suffered during an attack. There is some evidence that gout sufferers are at more risk of heart disease.

There are some general lifestyle changes that can help to lower your risk of gout.

  • Diet. Eat a healthy diet making sure you get plenty of fruit. Any foods that are anti-inflammatory will help as gout is an inflammatory problem.

  • Alcohol. The recommendation when trying to avoid gout is no more than two drinks a day for men and no more than one for women.

  • Overweight people are more at risk of gout.

Other things that you can do to reduce or help relieve gout include:

  • Drink plenty of water each day. Some suggest 10-12 glasses of water a day to help flush out the uric acid.

  • Exercise each day. Go for a walk.

  • Baking soda can act as a neutralizer to the uric acid in your body.

  • When resting keep the affected joint elevated.

  • Make sure that your shoes fit comfortably. A wider shoe fitting might help if it is your foot that is affected.

Test your body ph level and see if you are to acid. Keeping the acid/alkaline balance right is good for all areas of your health.  Making your body more alkaline is a good step towards avoiding gout.