Gout, which is a type of arthritis, develops when the level of uric acid in the blood goes abnormally high. Excess amount of uric acid leads to the formation of crystals in the joints, mostly in the feet and big toes. This often causes severe and painful swelling.
Though medications are needed for some people for the treatment of gout, dietary and lifestyle changes can also help to offer relief. Also, lowering the level of uric acid in your body can help you to reduce the risk of getting affected by gout. It can also prevent subsequent bursts associated with gout.
Here are some of the natural ways that help to lower the uric acid levels in your body.
Limit the Intake of Purine-Rich Foods
Purines occur as natural compounds in some foods. Uric acid is formed in the body as the body breaks down purines. The metabolizing process after consuming purine-rich foods often leads to the formation of gout and in turn, this makes the body to produce uric acid in large amounts.
Since some high purine-rich foods are healthy, the goal should be to limit its intake rather than in avoiding them completely.
Eat More Low-Purine Foods
Most people would be able to lower the uric acid levels and avoid a further increase of it by switching to foods with low purine content. Free-fat and low-fat dairy products, coffee, fruits and vegetables, potatoes, bread, nuts, peanut butter, whole-grain rice, etc. are some of the low-purine foods.
Dietary changes can help reduce and prevent the flare-ups that are often caused due to gout though it alone would not help people get rid of gout. Also, it is important to keep in mind that not everyone who has gout eats high-purine foods.
Many other factors such as genetic susceptibility also play a major role in having gout.
Avoid the Intake of Drugs that can Raise the Level of Uric Acid in your Body
Several mediations including diuretic drugs and the drugs that are used to suppress the immune system and low-dose aspirins can elevate the levels of uric acid in your body. You should always discuss with your doctor before changing any medications as many drugs that can raise the level of uric acid also offers many health benefits.
Maintain a Healthy Body Weight
Maintaining a healthy body weight helps in reducing the chance of gout flares in people. The risk of gout is increased with obesity, especially in young people.
