Gout

Gout, also known as crystal arthritis, is a type of arthritis where the body has difficulty to metabolize uric acid. This results in an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints which cause severe pain and inflammation. Typically a single joint is affected, i.e. big toe, knee, wrist or ankle. Being overweight (which increases the workload on joints) can further aggravate the pain. Gout usually afflicts men aged over 40 but women can also develop it, especially after menopause.

Risk increasing factors

• High Triglyceride levels
• High blood pressure
• Family history of gout
• Kidney diseases
• Some prescribed medicenes
• Sudden, excessive weight gain between the ages of 20 and 40
• Stress and fatigue

Nutritional intervention:

• Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables.
• Drink plenty of fluid (non-alcoholic)
• High purine rich foods must be eaten in lesser amounts, e.g. offal, game, anchovies, sardines, poultry and pulses (legumes)
• Plenty of omega 3 fatty acids in the diet will give pain relief, because of its anti-inflammatory response.