What are some healthy alternatives in treating gout?
Gout is caused by high levels of uric acid in the bloodstream that causes the formation of uric acid crystals in the joint of the big toe. Uric acid comes from the purine proteins, so the first step in prevention would be to reduce intake of foods containing high purine levels.
Acidity also appears to contribute to gout, so low acid foods may also help. Additionally, the ingestion of bicarbonate to get the urine pH to be above 6.5 may be beneficial. Quercetin is an herb that decreases the production of uric acid in the body, and if taken with Bromelain, an enzyme, it will aid digestion and could break down the beginning uric acid crystals.
The best treatment for a gout flare up is colchizine, administered IV. Unfortunately, the FDA prohibited its sale in the US, making it difficult to get it. However, some physicians are able to obtain and use it. When used, the IV must be in the vein, for the substance is highly toxic outside the blood vessel.
My doctor says I can get all the vitamins and minerals I need from my food. What is your opinion on this?
I used to say the same thing to my patients, back in the days before I studied healthy alternatives. It is the party line of allopathic medicine, although that is starting to change. Here's the bottom line, and I'll follow up with some info on what allopaths are now doing:
1 response so far ↓
1 Gwen Burgin // Apr 4, 2010 at 10:53 pm
Cherries for gout…
known in our family for years.
Dried, canned, fresh, or juice…just so it’s cherries, seems to do the trick. Take daily whenever needed, and continue a few days if needed. Usually works fast.
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