One morning, Uncle Wang was enjoying the morning light with his friends on a bench in the community park. But unlike others, he has a sharp pain in his right ankle, which is the pain of his old wife in recent years - gout. Gout not only affected his walking, but also his mood and social life. However, some time ago, Uncle Wang began to try to adjust his diet according to the doctor's advice, especially adding some specific fruits. To his surprise, he found that these small changes had significantly reduced the frequency and pain of his gout attacks. This was not only a small personal victory, but also a source of hope for his friends around him, who were also suffering from gout.
Gout Overview and the Importance of Dietary Management: Do We Really Know About Gout?
What is gout?
Gout is a complex inflammatory joint disease caused primarily by high levels of uric acid, a waste product produced when purines are metabolized in the body. When uric acid is too high, it can form sharp urate crystals in joints and soft tissues, causing severe pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness, commonly in the toes, ankles, and knees.
Uric acid production and excretion
Normally, uric acid is excreted from the body through the kidneys, but when it is produced too much or the kidneys don't excrete it enough, the level of uric acid in the blood rises. In addition, genetic factors, obesity, dietary habits, certain diseases, and lifestyle choices can all affect uric acid levels.
Diet and gout
Diet plays a very important role in gout management. In general, purine-rich foods such as red meat and certain seafood increase uric acid production, while dairy products and plant-based foods are thought to help lower uric acid levels. In particular, certain fruits are not only rich in essential vitamins and minerals, but also help regulate uric acid levels in the body.
How does fruit help people with gout?
Studies have shown that certain fruits are rich in vitamin C and other natural compounds that can help lower uric acid levels in the blood and reduce inflammation. For example, cherries have been extensively studied for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that are especially beneficial for people with gout. In addition, a moderate intake of high-fiber fruits such as apples and pears can help improve gut health and uric acid excretion.
Eat these 5 kinds of fruits often to make gout retreat!
Gout, an arthritic disease caused by hyperuricemia, brings not only severe pain, but also long-term damage to the joints. Dietary modification is one of the keys to managing gout, especially choosing the right fruits, which can help regulate blood uric acid levels and reduce symptoms.
Cherries: Cherries are considered a superfood for people with gout. Studies have shown that cherries can significantly reduce blood uric acid levels and the risk of gout attacks. Patients are advised to consume a small bowl of cherries daily, or to drink a significant amount of cherry juice.
Lemon: Lemon is rich in vitamin C, which not only strengthens the immune system but also promotes the excretion of uric acid. Squeezing fresh lemon juice into warm water as the first drink in the morning helps regulate the internal environment and prevent uric acid buildup.
Apples: Apples are rich in water-soluble fiber, which helps promote the excretion of uric acid. At the same time, apples' low-purine properties make them an ideal fruit choice for gout sufferers. One to two apples a day can help control blood uric acid levels.
Strawberries: Strawberries contain a lot of anti-inflammatory ingredients and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and reduce gout attacks. Strawberries can be eaten in moderation as a healthy dessert or added to breakfast cereals.
Guava (Pomegranate): Guava is extremely rich in antioxidants, which help to reduce free radicals in the body while promoting the excretion of uric acid. Pomegranate juice or fresh pomegranate seeds are good choices and can be consumed in moderation daily to protect people with gout.
Precautions for fruit intake
Although fruit brings many benefits to people with gout, there are a few things to keep in mind when consuming it:
Avoid high-sugar fruits: Certain fruits such as grapes and mangoes are high in sugar, and excessive intake may lead to blood sugar problems, which can indirectly affect uric acid levels.
Control portion size: Even fruits that are good for gout should be eaten in moderation. Excessive amounts of any food, including fruits, can lead to excess calories and weight gain, which can worsen gout symptoms.
Individual differences: Everyone reacts differently to food, so it is recommended to adjust the diet plan according to your own situation under the guidance of a medical professional.
In conclusion, fruits play an important role in the diet of gout patients, and reasonable choices and moderate intake can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. A scientific, balanced diet, combined with appropriate lifestyle adjustments, will be the most effective way to fight gout.