In the previous article, we explored two common types of arthritis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, and ways to manage them through lifestyle and dietary changes. In this article, we will examine another form of inflammatory arthritis known as gout and discuss how it can be managed with dietary changes and natural remedies.
GOUT
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that develops due to a buildup of uric acid. Uric acid is produced when our body breaks down purines which are found in our body and many foods. However, when too much is made or too little is removed, excess uric acid builds up and forms sharp crystals around the joints, causing pain and inflammation. People may experience gout flare-ups that typically last from one to two weeks before subsiding. Although it commonly starts in the big toe, gout can affect any joint. Medically, gout progresses through four stages:
- Asymptomatic phase – Uric acid levels in the blood are elevated, but there are no pain or swelling symptoms. Not everyone with high uric acid will experience a gout attack.
- Acute gout – Uric acid crystals accumulate around a joint, triggering sudden swelling and severe pain, often called a gout attack.
- Interval gout – Between attacks, individuals may be symptom-free with normal joint function, though uric acid levels remain high.
- Chronic gout – Without treatment, repeated gout attacks over time can cause joint damage, resulting in deformity, persistent pain, and limited mobility.
Researchers are actively investigating the roles of genetics and environmental factors in the accumulation of uric acid in the bloodstream. Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing gout, including:
- Elevated uric acid levels
- A family history of gout
- Being male (as female estrogen can help to excrete uric acid from the body)
- Experiencing menopause
- Being overweight or obese
- Dietary habits such as drinking alcohol, sugar-sweetened beverages, and eating foods high in purines (usually from animal sources), which break down into uric acid
WAYS TO MANAGE GOUT
Gout management may include dietary and lifestyle modifications, medications, and addressing any underlying health issues. Dietary adjustments include limiting alcohol, and avoiding foods high in purines such as red meats, organ meats, and certain seafood. Sugary beverages can also elevate uric acid in the body as the breakdown of fructose releases purines. Overweight and obese individuals should follow a supervised weight loss program. However, fasting and crash diets are discouraged, as they can worsen gout conditions.
Lastly, consider taking natural herb supplements to maintain healthy uric acid levels. Holistic Way Super Joint Food is a special formulation using natural herbs that may help to support healthy uric acid levels in the body, and healthy joint mobility. This product contains four different types of herbs to help manage gout condition:
- Celery Seed: Contains compounds such as apigenin and luteolin, which have anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce swelling and pain associated with gout attacks. Some studies suggest that celery seeds may help lower uric acid levels in the blood, potentially preventing future gout attacks.
- Devil’s Claw Root: Contains harpagoside, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. This can help alleviate pain during gout flare-ups
- Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that can help reduce joint pain and inflammation in gout.
- Dandelion Leaf: Acts as a natural diuretic, which can increase urine output and facilitate the excretion of excess uric acid from the body.
In summary, managing gout effectively requires a comprehensive approach that includes dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and possibly natural supplements. By reducing purine-rich foods, limiting alcohol and sugary beverages, and maintaining a healthy weight, individuals can lower their risk of flare-ups. Herbal supplements like celery seed, devil’s claw root, turmeric, and dandelion leaf may reduce inflammation and support joint health. While gout can be painful and disruptive, a consistent, mindful approach to diet and lifestyle can help minimise flare-ups and improve overall joint health.
References
https://www.singhealth.com.sg/patient-care/conditions-treatments/gout
https://medlineplus.gov/gout.html
https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/gout
Alburyhi, M. M., & El-Shaibany, A. (2024). Formulation, Development and Evaluation of Celery Extract Capsules Delivery System as an Advanced Phytotherapy Approach for Gout. World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 13(11), 2383-2404.
Pushpalatha, D. S. S. S., Kumaraswamy, S., Selvaraj, G. K., Narayanaswamy, R., Prabhakaran, V. S., Sivakumar, T., & Kesavan, A. (2023). Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds: Promising Prospective Uses in the Chronic Inflammation. In Natural Products as Cancer Therapeutics (pp. 254-274). IGI Global.
Bupparenoo, P., Pakchotanon, R., Narongroeknawin, P., Asavatanabodee, P., & Chaiamnuay, S. (2021). Effect of curcumin on serum urate in asymptomatic hyperuricemia: A randomized placebo-controlled trial. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 18(3), 248-260.