Although there’s no cure for gout—the painful inflammatory arthritis that typically presents in toes, hands, knees and ankles—there are natural ways to try to keep it in remission. Gout occurs when our bodies break down purines found in foods and the purines, in turn, produce excess uric acid. Yes, some medications can help, but if they’re not doing enough, or you just want to try a natural approach first, consider implementing these home remedies.
1. Treat it like a sprain.
As with a sprained ankle, elevating the affected body part can help move blood and fluid build-up away from the joint.
Applying an ice pack to the affected area may also help with pain and inflammation.
2. Have a second cup of coffee.
Research has found that people who drink more coffee tend to be less likely to have gout. The theory is that coffee lowers uric acid levels.
It’s important to note that this is simply a correlation, however. More research needs to be done before anyone can claim that drinking coffee actually lowers their risk for developing gout.
3. Add fresh lemon juice to your water.
Drinking water is always a good approach to reduce swelling. The hydrating habit can trigger your kidneys to release excess fluid.
Better still, add some freshly squeezed lemon juice to your water to help neutralize uric acid in the body.
4. Steer clear of foods with high amounts of purines.
Foods with high levels of purines can increase your gout symptoms. Try to avoid eating organ meats (such as liver), as well as bacon, turkey, venison and veal. Fish, too, can be high in purines. The worst culprits are anchovies, scallops, trout, cod, haddock, sardines, muscles and herring.
5. Cut back on the booze.
It’s probably not what you want to hear, but beer is high in purines. Not sure how much is ok? The Arthritis Foundation says anything more than two beers or two servings of liquor daily increase your risk for gout.
