GOUT OR CRYSTAL ARTHRITIS
Gout is a disease that can affect any person and can be a very painful affliction. Gout is the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints. These crystals cannot develop without an elevated level of uric acid in the blood, therefore, the prevention of this elevated level of uric acid is required.
In orthodox medicine prescription drugs are given to reduce inflammation and pain for acute attacks and/or the use of drugs such as allopurinol to reduce the amount of uric acid in the blood and urine.
The naturopathic treatment is based on the modification and reduction of the main factors that increase the uric acid levels in the blood.
THE DIET
A diet low in fats and moderate in the intake of protein is the first step in reducing uric acid levels in the blood.
Foods that contain a high level of purine should be avoided. These include all organ meats: ie liver, kidney, brains, heart, sweetbreads. Other foods that must be avoided are shellfish: prawns, lobster, oysters, salami, pate, sardines in oil, anchovies. Do not eat tomatoes or oranges. You can eat milk, eggs, cereal (except whole wheat), fruit, enriched bread, butter and most vegetables. Restrict to twice a week asparagus, beans, peas, alcohol, mushrooms, oatmeal, whole-wheat cereal.
To avoid rises in uric acid level do not take aspirin. Sudden changes in weight can cause a rise so weight reductions or increases should be gradual.
The consumption of red meat is to be restricted to three times weekly. Chicken and fish can be eaten freely but they must be grilled or steamed. Tomatoes, alcohol, take-away foods such as Chinese must be avoided.
It is also important to increase the amount of fluid intake to 6 to 8 glasses per day. Low purine diets are lower in Vitamin B, and a B Complex should be taken.
Supplements
B complex 1 tablet/capsule daily
Vitamin C 5000 mg daily
Pantothenic acid 50 mg daily
Cod liver oil 5 ml daily
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