Gout is a medical condition which emerges due to accumulation of high levels of uric acid in our body. It can be referred to as a type of arthritis as uric acid crystals get deposited in our soft tissues and joints which results in inflammation. People suffering from gout, experience severe pain in joints especially in the big toe. People suffering from this condition, find it difficult to walk or move due to swelling, redness and pain.
When we talk about nutritional intervention during the treatment of gout, it is often recommended that the patient should refrain from consuming foods rich in purines. For example, organ meats like liver, seafood, honey, sugar-laced foods and beverages. Foods which can be easily included in the diet are fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, low-fat dairy products, and legumes, etc.
Apart from dietary sources, there are some gout-friendly supplements which might prove beneficial in relieving the symptoms of gout. In this article, let us discuss how these supplements could prove to be rewarding.
1. Vitamin C supplement - Vitamin C is well-known for its antioxidant properties. It helps neutralise free radicals thus keeping our cells and tissues healthy by preventing their damage. But vitamin C supplements might be an additional perk for people with high uric acid levels. Several studies have shown that it helps reduce the levels by stimulating our kidneys to flush out more uric acid from our body. Vitamin C supplements are easily available in supplement stores and pharmacies.
2. Fish Oil supplement - Choosing a fish oil supplement can ease the symptoms of gout due to the presence of omega 3 fatty acids. EPA and DHA present in fish oil have strong anti-inflammatory properties and have been known to reduce the levels of certain markers of inflammation like C-reactive proteins (CRP). But if you are wondering why not consume fatty fish instead of choosing a supplement, then the answer to this is that some breeds of fish might contain high purine levels. This might further aggravate the condition, therefore opting for a pure, filtered fish oil supplement which is also free from heavy metals is the key.
3. Bromelain extract supplement - Bromelain is an enzyme naturally present in pineapples. This digestive enzyme has been shown to hold an anti-inflammatory ability. Therefore, bromelain extract can be used in the treatment of people suffering from joint pain, gout, arthritis and osteoarthritis as it effectively reduces pain, redness, swelling and soreness in muscles.
4. Ginger Extract - Ginger has been in use traditionally to relieve and treat various health issues. The anti-inflammatory property of ginger accounts for its effectiveness in relieving gout symptoms. Several studies conducted revealed that ginger extract was able to reduce high uric acid levels and suppress inflammation.
5. Turmeric Extract - Turmeric benefits does not need any introduction. Presence of a compound called curcumin makes turmeric an exceptional anti-bacterial, anti-septic and anti-inflammatory agent. It not only alleviates inflammation but may also significantly reduces high uric acid levels.
6. Nettle Tea - Multiple clinical trials have shown that consuming 2-3 cups of Nettle tea per day might protect the kidneys and curtail inflammation.
7. Dandelion Tea - Dandelion is a herb which is good for our digestive health, it helps maintain a healthy gut microbial balance, stimulates appetite and boost immune health. Dandelion also helps eliminate toxins from our body hence good for liver and kidney health. Interestingly, dandelion has also shown advantageous in lowering elevated uric acid levels. Gout sufferers can either consume dandelion tea and can consume leaves in salads.
To conclude, there are multiple options available in terms of supplements which are considered as valuable in reducing inflammation and lowering high uric acid levels. But one should always check with the physician or an expert before opting for any supplements because there could be possible side effects of some.
