A 2012 study (Zhang, et al. 2012) of 633 individuals with gout showed cherry intake over a two-day period was associated with a 35 percent lower risk of gout attacks, and when taken with allopurinol lowered the risk of gout attacks by 75 percent. You can eat them, drink them, or take a cherry extract supplement. The research found that two-to-three servings of cherries or cherry extract over a 24-hour period have the most benefit and decrease gout attacks.
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis. It occurs when your blood has a buildup of uric acid. This acid causes crystals to form in a joint, which leads to sudden pain and swelling. The most common areas of the body to develop gout are the joints of the knee, ankle, and big toe. Some people only experience one gout episode, while others may have several episodes throughout their lives. The Arthritis Foundation estimates about six million American men and two million American women have gout.
Traditional treatment for gout include diet modification, drinking water, medications to decrease uric acid levels in the blood by decreasing how much you make or clearing out what you eat. However, studies have shown that two food items you may have in your kitchen may be effective in preventing and reducing gout attacks.
Black cherry (Prunus serotine) is the most common American species of sweet cherry and is native to North America. Many people report health benefits from drinking black cherry juice, especially relief from the symptoms of gout. A 2012 study (Zhang, et al. 2012) of 633 individuals with gout showed cherry intake over a two-day period was associated with a 35 percent lower risk of gout attacks and when taken with allopurinol lowered the risk of gout attacks was 75 percent.
Like all cherry juices -- black cherry juice has a high amount of anthocyanins. These are antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables that are red or purplish in color. Antioxidants relieve inflammation, improve gout symptoms and lower uric acid levels, which help lessen the number of gout attacks.
Ingesting cherries, including black cherries, in any form provides the same benefit. You can eat them, drink them, or take a cherry extract supplement. The research found that two-to-three servings of cherries or cherry extract over a 24-hour period have the most benefit and decrease gout attacks.
Unless you're allergic to cherries, black cherry juice is safe to drink for gout. Drinking too much may lead to stomach cramping and diarrhea from the extra fiber.
Coconut water offers several health benefits for gout patients, including helping to eliminate uric acid, replenish minerals, and reduce inflammation.
Dr. Nguyen Anh Duy Tung from Nutrihome Nutrition Clinic advises that coconut water is one drink that can support these efforts to treat gout because it is rich in potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, and natural electrolytes, coconut water is nutrient-dense and has anti-inflammatory properties. When consumed in the right amounts, it offers benefits for gout sufferers:
Supports uric acid elimination: Coconut water has mild diuretic properties, which increase urine output and help flush uric acid from the body. This reduces the risk of urate crystals forming in the joints, thereby stopping the gout symptoms.
Replenishes electrolytes and maintains pH balance: Coconut water is packed with potassium and bicarbonate, which help maintain a stable pH level in the body. A slightly alkaline environment neutralizes uric acid, preventing crystal formation. For gout patients taking diuretics, coconut water also helps replenish electrolytes and prevent low potassium and dehydration, which can bring on the gout.
Provides natural anti-inflammatory properties: Coconut water contains antioxidants and enzymes that can help reduce mild inflammation in joints affected by gout and help soothe pain.
Reduces cravings of unhealthy beverages: Gout patients should avoid sugary sodas or alcohol, both of which can raise uric acid levels. Coconut water is a healthier alternative, as it contains no purines, is low in sugar, and can reduce cravings for these harmful beverages.
Supports kidney function: Gout patients are at risk of kidney dysfunction due to the accumulation of uric acid over time. Drinking enough water, especially coconut water, helps the kidneys filter blood and expel waste more efficiently.The ideal amount is water from one small coconut per day, consumed in the morning or afternoon. To prevent nighttime urination, it is best to avoid drinking coconut water at night. Patients with conditions such as diabetes, electrolyte imbalances, or kidney disease should consult their doctor before adding coconut water to their routine.
Following your doctors' advice for the prevention and treatment of gout may include diet modification and medications. It is also recommended not drinking alcohol, choosing low-fat or non-fat dairy products, drinking lots of water, replacing meat with beans and legumes and avoiding soda and other sugary drinks, and meats such as bacon and salty fish, like sardines or anchovies.
In recent years, natural remedies like black cherries, coconut water and using hot and cold compresses have been recommended and proven to be effective adjunctive therapies for gout. If your doctor suggests that you modify your diet, consider adding black cherry and coconut water.
For more information email [email protected] or visit www.foothealthfacts.org or www.footlogix.com. To see a podiatrist visit Family Foot Centre on #45 Daffodil Avenue, Independence Highway or call 605-3668; Bahamas Surgical Associates Centre at Hill Top Medical, telephone 603-1814/5. In Grand Bahama visit Lucayan Medical Center on East Sunrise Highway or call 373-7400.