Gout Home Remedies

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by metabolic conditions. The main cause of gout is high levels of uric acid in the blood that causes crystals to form. These crystals end up deposited in the joints, causing severe pain. The gout home remedies here may help get rid of your gout and may even stop it from recurring.

The most common place for gout to occur is in the big toe. Gout can cause severe pain and acute arthritis. As gout persists over time crystals referred to as Tophi, can form lumps around joints. These crystals can also form in other areas of the body.

Probably the most important factor in controlling Gout is diet.  Genetic factors can also influence who suffers from Gout. Men in particular are susceptible to gout and anyone over the age of 50 is more prone to this disease.

Here are several Home Remedies you can try for Gout:

1. Ice: Use an ice pack on the affected area for 20 minutes several times a day.

2. Water: Drink plenty of water, especially during a flare up, to flush the urates outs.

3. Diet: Eat a low protein diet. Avoid fish, meats, and sugary foods and drinks.

4. Bicarbonate of soda: Taking bicarbonate soda is almost a tradition when it comes to gout. You have to be careful of your sodium intake while you take this. If you are on a low sodium diet, you should avoid bicarbonate soda.

5. Potassium: You can take potassium supplements, or eat fruits that are high in potassium. Bananas and black cherries are great examples.

6. Ginseng:  People have reported that taking Ginseng supplements have helped their Gout attacks tremendously.
 
7. Turmeric and Ginger: Turmeric and Ginger are known for their anti-inflammatory characteristics. Add these to your cooking whenever possible.

8. Medication: Although this is not a natural remedy, sometimes your doctor will want you to take an anti-inflammatory over the counter drug, such as Ibuprofen. If you are willing to take over the counter medications, this may help. Stay away from Aspirin however; this can make your condition worse.

In order to naturally remedy gout, you have to be proactive in order to prevent future attacks. You can help prevent future attacks by following these simple steps:

* Diet is the most important thing to prevent future attacks. You should follow a diet that is low in fat and protein. Avoid beef and seafood; these items contain high amounts of animal purine.

* Avoid foods and drinks that contain high fructose corn syrup. High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener that many companies in the USA use instead of natural sugars. People who consumed two sodas a day increase their chance of getting gout again by 85%.

* Maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent future gout attacks.  Studies have shown that people who are considered overweight experience gout attacks more often.

Gout can be a debilitating condition, but it does not have to be. If you follow these simple gout home remedies, you may be able to control your attacks. It is important before beginning any natural remedy or diet that you consult with your health care provider.