Gout is a very common form of arthritis in which high levels of uric acid in the blood forms needle-like crystals in a joint causing sudden and severe pain. The joint may also become swollen, tender, red, or warm.
There are many natural ways to reduce the buildup of uric acid, therefore decreasing gout pain. We’ve compiled a list of the 5 most effective natural remedies for gout pain below.
- Drink Water: Staying hydrated is one of the most effective ways to keep gout flare-ups at bay. When you become dehydrated, your uric acid levels increase which directly leads to an increase in the number of gout flare-ups and gout pain. If you find it hard to stay hydrated by drinking water, try adding foods like watermelon, cucumber, celery, iceberg lettuce, and pineapple to your diet to increase hydration.
- Cold Therapy: Use cold therapies like ice packs, coolant sprays, cool-lotion massages, or ice baths to manage gout pain. This will reduce swelling and inflammation and soothe pain. However, this is not an effective therapy if you have nerve problems from other health complications like diabetes, as this can make your other conditions worse.
- Cherries or Cherry Juice: Research has suggested that natural cherries of all kinds are a successful home remedy for gout pain. Research has shown that three servings of any form of cherry over a two day period is the most effective for reducing gout pain. Elongated consumption of cherries and cherry juice for a period of four months or longer can also reduce the number of gout flare-ups per year.
- Reduce Stress: Stress reduction is a huge factor in reducing the severity of many physical and mental ailments, including gout. Obviously, it’s near impossible to eliminate all life stressors, but using stress-reduction techniques during times of heightened stress can help decrease gout pain. Take some time to do low-impact exercises if pain does not debilitate your movement, take a day off work, read a favorite book, take a nap, or do something to help you relax when you’re extra stressed out.
- Watch What You Eat: Attempt to understand and eliminate your gout diet triggers. Many popular food triggers are red meat, seafood, sugar, and alcohol; however, they vary for each person. Certain foods like low-sugar fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and low-fat dairy can be key components to a well-balanced gout diet.
Using these natural remedies in conjunction with your established gout treatment from your doctor could dramatically reduce the number and severity of gout flare-ups you experience. If you are considering eliminating medication from your gout treatment, always consult your doctor first.
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