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5) Put down the glass of wine. Beer has long been known to increase the risk of gout, according to the Arthritis Foundation, but wine is worse. A study showed that drinking more than one serving of beer or liquor in a 24 hour period increased the risk of a gout attack by 36%, and that risk increases with every drink consumed thereafter. Wine, on the other hand, more than doubles the risk even after just one or two servings.
6) Reduce inflammation the delicious way. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends adding cherries, blueberries and strawberries to your diet. Cherries and dark berries contain chemicals that help reduce uric acid levels, and purple and blue-colored berries contain flavonoids called anthocyanins that help lower uric acid and reduce inflammation and stiffness, Pineapple and celery also both have anti-inflammatory properties.
7) Cook with olive oil. Most vegetable oils turn into rancid fats when heated or processed, Top 10 Home Remedies explains, and these fats destroy vitamin E in our body, which is vital for controlling uric acid levels. Olive oil, on the other hand, contains monounsaturated fats which remain stable when at high temperatures. Olive oil is high in vitamin E and has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
8) Remember your Vitamin C. Studies have indicated that Vitamin C increases the body’s ability to excrete uric acid, according to You can take supplements or increase your intake through your diet. Foods like oranges, lemons, strawberries, tomatoes, bell peppers and broccoli are all naturally very high in vitamin C.
9) Keep your weight down. There’s another reason to avoid fructose and alcohol – obesity is in itself a risk for gout, as people who are overweight produce more uric acid and their kidneys don’t remove it as quickly, according to The Arthritis Foundation. Studies have shown that the risk of gout is almost doubled in those who are obese, and it happens sooner in life.
High levels of uric acid can be caused by a number of factors, but simple dietary and lifestyle changes can help you to start reducing it immediately. Gout is a painful condition, so it’s best to intervene naturally before you get to that point. If you are already experiencing pain and swelling in your joints – particularly the big toe, ankle or knee – see your doctor. There are simple tests to measure your levels of uric acid.
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