How to Manage Gout with Functional Nutrition
HYPERURICEMIA & GOUT 101
Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down fructose and nucleotide molecules (specifically, the purine bases that are part of DNA's structure). Normally, the kidneys process and excrete uric acid.
Hyperuricemia occurs when uric acid crystals are not excreted properly, causing them to build up in the bloodstream, joints, and other tissues.
This buildup can trigger the immune system and lead to swelling and inflammation—a condition known as gouty arthritis.
URIC ACID BALANCE STRATEGIES
HEALTHY WEIGHT
hyperuricemia & gout tend to correlate with obesity & metabolic diseases, so achieving a healthy weight can benefit all conditions
REDUCE AGGRAVATING FOODS
high consumption of high-purine foods (red meat, pork, organ meats, seafood), alcohol, fructose, & citrus increase gout flares
EAT FOR RELIEF
tart cherries, quality dairy, soy, coffee, & a high-fiber diet have all been found to decrease gout flares
DECREASE INFLAMMATION
with regular movement, adequate sleep, minimal toxins, stress management, & an anti-inflammatory diet
FOODS THAT IMPROVE GOUT
DAIRY
SOY
COFFEE
TART CHERRIES
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References
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