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Is Gout a Lifestyle Disease?

Gout is a metabolic disorder caused by an abnormal metabolism of purines (a component of many foods). What happens is that purine metabolism does not produce enough uric acids to keep up with the excretion. This causes abnormal accumulation of uric acids. Gout is caused by crystals of uric acids forming and accumulating in tissues. Crystal deposits are formed when serum urate levels exceed the saturation point of approximately 7.0 mg/dl. This assumes that all other physiological factors, such as temperature, are normal.

Gout Therapy

Gout therapy aims to lower serum uric acid levels below 6.0 mg/dl. Below this level, uric acid deposits shrink and attacks of the disease decrease in frequency. Gout is usually manifested in acute episodes of painful swelling of the joints. The ankle, big toe and foot are the most common places for gout attacks. Gout can worsen if it is not treated. Other joints become inflamed, and attacks become more frequent.

Gout attacks are not only painful but also cause damage to the joints and internal organs like the kidneys. Gout is on the rise and affects about four percent of Americans. Gout is increasing in incidence due to environmental factors, such as changes in diet and obesity.

Metabolic Syndrome

Gout is a part of the “metabolic Syndrome” because it often comes with other medical conditions like hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension. Numerous studies have identified the main contributing factors to gout. These include obesity, alcohol (especially beers), red meat, shellfish and fructose-containing beverages. These include both soft drinks and processed fruit juices.

Lifestyle changes can make a big difference in reducing your risk of developing gout. These include weight loss and increasing intake of low-fat dairy products, coffee and vitamin C. These foods have been shown to be gout-protective in at least two controlled studies. Gout protection is also possible with skim milk.

Gout Diet

There are some dietary factors that may play a role in the development and progression of gout. These include vegetables rich in purines, moderate to high-fat dairy products, tea, and wines. Although there are effective treatments for gout, most people prefer to avoid taking pills. Gout can be treated early with lifestyle changes and diet management.

 

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