Gout and cherries have been linked for years. Cherry juice is a popular home remedy that helps prevent gout recurrences. It won’t work for everyone. However, many people have reported positive results. Gout is a debilitating condition that is caused by excess uric acid crystals in the blood. These crystals are then deposited in the tissues and joints, most commonly in the toes. This causes painful inflammation and restricts the movement of the joints.
Research
In 1950, a scientific study linked cherries and gout. Twelve people with gout were offered one pound of cherries per day. All of them showed improvement. They saw a significant decrease in gout attacks, and their uric acid levels dropped to a normal level. Many other scientific studies have been conducted since that first study linking cherries to gout. All of them have confirmed the same important findings: cherries and gout have a very beneficial relationship.
Scientists believe that cherries contain anthocyanin, which is the key ingredient responsible for their distinctive red colour. Anthocyanin, a powerful anti-inflammatory, has been shown to decrease the risk of colon cancer. Flavonoids are also anti-inflammatory and can reduce or prevent inflammation in patients who have suffered from repeated gout attacks. Anthocyanins are excellent at reducing uric acid levels in the body and thus relieving the painful symptoms associated with gout.
Let’s understand it
However, some studies also show that regular intake of anthocyanins can help reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease. Evidence suggests that cherries may have some benefits in the treatment and prevention of cancer. Gout sufferers can drink cherry juice, eat fresh or dried cherry fruit, or a combination of both. Gout symptoms can be significantly improved by eating as few as six cherries per week.
The same benefits are available for sweet, sour, and black cherries. Some people experience immediate relief from the symptoms associated with gout after the introduction of cherries to their diet. Others may need to wait longer before they notice any improvement. Although the connection between gout & cherries has been known for hundreds of years, people have only recently started to experiment with home-based remedies for gout that are based on cherries.
Conclusion
Gout has been treated traditionally with anti-inflammatory medication and other medications. Many of these medications can have side effects, and anti-inflammatory medication can cause stomach bleeding and ulcers if taken for long periods. Many people are encouraged to try the natural remedy for gout and cherries. Although cherries might not be for everyone, they are delicious and readily available and full of healthy nutrients.