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 by Dr. Rita Louise
Hyperuricaemia, or gout, describes a condition in which high concentrations of uric acid are found in the blood. Manifesting as acute, but intermittent attacks of joint pain, swelling and redness, gout is caused by the formation of needlelike crystal of deposited uric acid, which irritates the joint lining.
Predisposing factors to this disorder are kidney failure, the use of diuretics, dehydration, hormonal disorders, alcohol consumption and over production of uric acid by the body. It is estimated that 90% of all cases of gout is due to the under excretion of uric acid by the kidneys.
A gout attack is characterized by a rapid onset of severe joint pain, swelling and redness. In most cases, the initial episode involves a single joint, especially the joint at the base of the big toe. Any joint of the body, including the knees, ankles, fingers, wrists and elbows are susceptible to attack. With gout, an attack can last from a few days up to a few weeks.
Recommendations for Wellness
- When an attack of gout strikes, eat lots of fruits and vegetables for 1-2 weeks.
- Consume ½ pound of fresh cherries or drink organic cherry juice. Cherries have been shown to be effective in lowering uric acid levels and preventing gout.
- Drink plenty of water. This will help rehydrate the body and flush excess uric acid out of the body.
- Reduce or eliminate the consumption of meats, fried foods and foods high in purine. Purine foods include asparagus, meat gravies and broths, mushrooms, mussels and sardines.
- If you are overweight, consider shedding a few pounds. Weight loss lowers serum uric acid levels. Avoid crash dieting however.
- Incorporate flax seed or omega 3 oil into your diet to help reduce inflammation and tissue damage.
- Burdock root can help rid the body of acidic waste build up and help supports normal uric acid levels in the body.
- To help reduce joint inflammation and swelling as well as reduce the uric acid build-up in the body, supplement with Joint Support or Joint-Ease.
- To alleviate the pain and reduce the inflammation experienced during a flair-up, try Ayurvedic Joint Health.
This information is provided for educational purposes only.
The descriptions of nurtritional supplements are based on the historical usage of the various ingredients. They are not intended to promote any direct or implied health claims, and actual results of usage can vary.
The statements on this Web site have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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