Gout is a painful medical condition that affects millions every year. Gout is a painful condition that can be treated with the right medication. Gout can be treated with prescription drugs. But what if these drugs have side effects that aren’t necessary, interact with other medications or aren’t right for you? Today we’ll be discussing other options to relieve gout symptoms like swelling and pain. An ounce of prevention is better than a pound cure, as they say. Although you cannot prevent gout from developing, there are things you can do.
Triggers
You can identify triggers for gout attacks by keeping a food and drink diary. Gout flares can be caused by alcohol, but it is not always the case. You should identify the foods and activities that are most likely to trigger gout symptoms, and eliminate them as soon as possible. Although many doctors will tell you to avoid foods high-in purine, such organ meats or certain types of fish (and they may be right), few doctors seem to know of foods that have been shown to lower uric acid.
For example, decaffeinated coffee has been shown to lower uric acid levels in gout patients. Vitamin C, which is found in many foods, also works. Although cherries may reduce uric acids, the benefits to gout sufferers have yet to be determined.
Remember
Certain food additives can also be used to reduce the symptoms of gout. Turmeric is a popular anti-inflammatory. It is as effective as many NSAID drugs in reducing inflammation and has the same effect on the stomach and digestive system as NSAID medications. It is easy to add to most meals because of its mild flavor. This helps to reduce gout symptoms without side effects or drug interactions.
While dietary changes are not a substitute for regular visits to your doctor to monitor your uric acid levels, and to treat gout symptoms if necessary, it is worth considering supplemental and complementary medicine. Talk to your doctor to discuss how these and other treatments can reduce or eliminate the need to take prescription gout medication. Gout relief can be achieved by simple lifestyle changes, meditation, herbs, and other methods that don’t require medication.