The Natural Remedy For Gout: Go Natural With Food

There’s probably nothing more effective than using food to prevent ailments and maintain good health. Food has been used more medicinal purposes since ancient times and today, we can use certain foods as a natural remedy for gout. A natural remedy for gout consists of foods that are high in alkaline properties, potassium and antioxidants.

Why do we need foods with alkali?

What alkali does is that it neutralizes acids in the body. When there is insufficient amounts of water in the body for example, acids like uric acid are more concentrated—concentrated acids in the body have the tendency to build up into crystals that are often deposited in the joints. Along with drinking enough water, we need to eat more foods high in alkaline as a natural remedy for gout. Highly alkaline foods are especially good for those suffering from gout because these have the ability to flush away uric acid from the body.

Alkaline sources are usually fruits and vegetables, but can also be found in some proteins (although proteins should be limited, since these are known to cause gout).

Common alkaline vegetables are broccoli, cabbage, carrot, cauliflower, celery, eggplant, lettuce, mushrooms, onions and tomatoes. As you can see, these vegetables are readily available in your local supermarket and are ideal for fresh raw salads and sidings.

Common alkaline fruits are apples, berries, currants, dried figs and dates, grapes and lemon. Actually, almost all kinds of fruits are alkalizing. Try sprinkling currants over a rice dish, or consume dried fruits as a healthy snack.

Protein foods high in alkali are tofu, almonds and chestnuts.

You can also find spices in your very own kitchen that are highly alkaline: curry powder, ginger, chili pepper, cinnamon and mustard seeds. While cooking, use these more frequently as a natural remedy for gout.

Why do we need potassium?

A diet rich in potassium helps regulate electrolyte balance in the body, blood pressure and heart function. Without sufficient intake of potassium, the body is unable to get rid of enough uric acid and gout symptoms can therefore occur.

Potassium can also be consumed as a natural remedy for gout and can be found mostly in fruits and vegetables. Bananas, avocados, oranges, peaches, tomatoes and prunes are all rich in potassium. Also consume more high-potassium vegetables like potatoes, spinach and carrots for optimum gout prevention.

What makes antioxidants a natural remedy for gout?

Antioxidants fight free radical damage in our bodies that weaken our immune system. It is studied that a weak immune system could trigger gout attacks or worsen present gout symptoms, therefore it would be a good idea to introduce foods rich in antioxidants into your diet.

You will find antioxidants in selenium sources, carotenoids, and Vitamin A, C and E sources. Look for bright-colored fruits and vegetables such as squash, peaches and apricots. Also look for citrus fruits like lemons and oranges. Antioxidants can also be found in protein foods such as nuts and in selenium foods like chicken and garlic.