Definition:
Gout is a common type of arthritis that occurs when there is a build-up of
uric acid in the blood, urine, and tissue. Uric acid is substance
that results from eating foods that have high levels of purines.
Purines are compounds that are found in food proteins. When this
excess uric acid crystallizes, it causes joint pain and inflammation.
Once thought of as a rich person=s disease gout may effect anyone.
It is very much a diet related condition, and can be prevented by
a combination of diet restriction and nutritional supplementation.
Symptoms:
Acute pain is usually the first symptom, attacking the big toe, mid-foot, ankle,
knee, wrist, and in some cases the fingers. While these symptoms
can mimic other forms of arthritis a simple blood test can confirm
the diagnoses.
Holistic Treatment Plan:
Treatment of gout is a combination of diet and nutrients. Diet
restrictions only lessen the amount of purines, so supplementation
is critical for improvement. For a list of foods high in purine
call my office Cherry juice is very helpful in improving symptoms
References:
Hendler, S., The Doctors’ Vitamin and Mineral Encyclopedia, New York:
Simon & Schuster, 1990; Whitaker, J., Cartilage Builders, Health and Healing,
June, 1993 and June 1994; Vidaly, Plana, R. R, et al, Articular cartilage
pharmacology: 1. In vitro studies on glucosamine and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Pharmacol Res Commun., 10(6): 557-69, 1978.
Disclaimer:
All information given here is for educational purposes only. For a proper diagnosis and
treatment plan you must consult your health care practitioner.
