Written by: BrynAlyn Evorik, Health Coach
What is Gout anyway?
Gout: Adisease in which defective metabolism of uric acid causes arthritis, especially in the smaller bones of the feet, deposition of chalkstones and episodes of acute pain.
Ummmm…what?
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the bloodstream (hyperuricemia). Not everyone with Hyperuricemia develops gout, and not every case of Gout occurs when a person has hyperuricemia. Uric acid crystals settle in the joint causing extreme pain, often occurring unexpectedly and often in the middle of the night.
Fun Facts!
- Men are more often affected by Gout
- A family history increases the likelihood of the development of Gout
- It often occurs in the joint of the big toe
- Being overweight increases the risk the likelihood of developing gout
- Gout can be avoided by avoiding animal derived foods with a high purine content.
- Gout can affect people 20 years and older, and is most common in men between 40 and 50 years old.
- Women are more susceptible to Gout after menopause
There are several medications on the market that can help treat the pain caused from Gout. However, in order to cure Gout you have to reduce the amount of Uric acid in your bloodstream. Since Uric Acid comes from animal derived foods, a plant based diet is recommended for all Gout sufferers. Plant based does not mean Vegan! It means a drastic reduction in the amount of meat, cheese, eggs and dairy you consume on a daily basis and an increase in the amount of vegetables, fruits, nuts and water.
“I can’t do that!”….Was that your reaction to what you just read? And did you immediately follow that thought with some justification to that reaction?
Guess what….you can do it.
Unless you actually like living in pain?
Gout is not only treatable, but it is entirely avoidable. Questions? Call me! (219) 6618680
