When there are high uric acid levels in the body, this can lead to a very common type of arthritis known as gout. In order to prevent the development of gout, it is vital that a person not only takes the proper medication, he or she must also eat the proper foods.
This means that the following foods and drinks will have to be eliminated from the body:
- Sugary foods
- Alcohol
- Foods rich in purine (pulses, seafood, meat, poultry)
There are also some vegetables that contain high levels of purines. These vegetables are:
- Spinach
- Cauliflower
- Peas
- Asparagus
- Mushrooms
When a person digests purine, it turns into the formation of these crystals. However, if the uric acid is not eliminated from the body through normal means of elimination, the crystals remain in the body and can lead to gout. The most common symptoms of gout are joint pain and joint inflammation. Fortunately, there are some foods and drinks a person can consume to reduce the formation of these crystals caused by excessive purine intake.
Water
Although the exact percentages stated have varied, most medical experts agree that the body is made up of over 60% of water. It is essential that humans drink enough water every day to flush toxins from the body.
By drinking 10 to 12 glasses of water daily, a person will help break down the crystal formation of this acid in their body and also prevent the development of gout, joint inflammation and pain.
Cherries
This fruit contains anti-inflammatory properties called anthocyanis that helps to reduce the acid levels in the body. Cherries also prevents the acid from crystallizing in the body, as well as neutralize the acids that cause joint inflammation. By eating one bowl or around 200 grams of cherries daily can reduce the acid levels in the body.
Apples
The saying goes, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Well, the malic acid found in apples can also keep toxin acids out of the body. This is a healthy acid that neutralizes the acid that causes gout, and can provide almost immediate relief to those suffering from gout. Individuals should aim to eat at least one apple every day.
Berries
All berries have antioxidant properties, but blueberries and strawberries in particular have high antioxidant level properties and anti-inflammatory properties. Darker berries can prevent gout, and lower the amount of the acid in the body.
Pinto Beans
Beans and lentils are legumes and are good for lowering blood pressure and cholesterol in the body. Legumes are also protein alternatives for those who are on vegetarian/vegan diets. Legumes, like pinto beans, are also rich in folic acid, and this acid can help to prevent gout in the body. This means that foods like pinto beans, lentils and sunflower seeds should be incorporated in your diet.
Vegetable Juices
Over the past few years, there has been an increased interest in green vegetable juices. In addition to the other myriad of health benefits they provide, carrot, beet and cucumber juices can also prevent the formation of the crystals in the body that cause gout. Aim to drink at least 16 ounces of vegetable juice every day to keep gout away.
Uric acid is a waste product that is usually eliminated from the body through the normal elimination processes. When there is an accumulation of the acid in the body, it can cause gout. By incorporating healthy foods and drinks in the body, you can prevent the symptoms of gout from occurring.