Healing Gout naturally

Posted by editor07 on Tuesday 31 Mar 2009

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Gout is the inflammation and swelling of the joints of a reoccurring type. It is caused due to the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints, skin and kidneys. Individuals suffering from gout have a higher level of uric acid than normal either due to the formation of excessive uric acid or reduction in the amount of uric acid being passed out by the kidneys in the urine.

Uric acid remains undissolved in the blood but when it is present in excess in the blood stream it forms needle shaped crystals that get accumulated in the joints thereby, resulting in acute attacks of gout. Gout is also caused by other factors such as heredity, excessive intake of alcohol and stress.

Symptoms of gout:
Gout is usually chronic in nature but breaks out in acute attacks. It is characterized by rapid and severe pain in the big toe which becomes tender, swollen and hot within a few hours. The skin on the affected joint becomes reddish in color and it becomes impossible to put any weight on the joint. An attack of gout lasts from a few hours to a few days after which it subsides on its own and can reoccur at any point of time in life. Some individuals also experience other symptoms such as fevers or chills and an increased heart beat.

Prevention and treatment for gout
Water: This is one of the most effective preventative measures to combat gout. It is recommended to drink 8- 10 glasses of water everyday in order to help the kidneys excrete more uric acid from the system.

Diet: Foods high in potassium such a potatoes and bananas, black cherry juice, blue berries, green leafy vegetables, carrot, beet and cucumber are highly protective against gout attacks. All foods rich in chlorine such as anchovies, crab, caviar, asparagus, peas, mushrooms, shell fish, alcohol, organ meat and sauces and condiments should be avoided.

Juices: The juices of celery, black cherry, cherry, birch leaf, parsley, carrot and beet are highly effective against gout and help flush out excess uric acid from the tissues and enhance the functioning of the kidneys. It is recommended to take any one of these juices or in combination at least once a day to heal gout.