Gout Disease Prevention

According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Disease, gout affects 275 out of every 100,000 people, occurring more often in men than women. It can affect any joint in the body, such as the fingers, knee and elbow, but typically patients show signs of gout in their big toe. Researchers have found that there are several medicines available as well as dietary changes that can help prevent people from being infected with gout disease.

Gout Disease

• Gout disease is a type of arthritis that is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood. Too much uric acid may cause hard crystals to form, which results in swelling and stiffness in a joint. Gout symptoms may persist for up to several weeks, or may only last a couple of days. According to Lenore Howe from seekwellness.com, gout attacks often occur in people who consume large amounts of alcohol or indulge in rich foods such as liver, anchovies or gravy. Researchers have also discovered that some patients have a genetic predisposition for gout disease.

Gout Disease Prevention

• There are several preventative measures that can be taken in order to avoid gout attacks. One of the easiest ways is by taking medicine prescribed by doctors that will reduce the amount of uric acid buildup in the blood. This is typically the best option for patients with a genetic predisposition for the disease. However, most people will end up having to take it for the rest of their life.

  Altering your diet is an alternative way to help prevent gout disease. If you are overweight, most doctors recommend taking steps to lose weight through a healthy diet and frequent exercise. People should avoid eating purine rich foods such as anchovies, asparagus, kidney, liver, mushrooms and sardines. Meat is an additional food group that should be reduced in your diet, since it is typically rich in uric acid forming components. In addition, doctors recommend lessening alcohol intake and substituting it with plenty of water. Physicians advise drinking around 64 ounces of water each day to prevent dehydration. A lack of water in the body will reduce kidney function and can lead to a buildup of uric acid. People are also encouraged to eat a significant amount of fruits and vegetables as well as seeds, grains and nuts. Black cherry juice is another good remedy that some people claim prevents gout attacks.