Question : I WAS told by my doctor recently that I have gout. My uric acid level is high. Since this may be at an early stage as I just had
pain attack, how can I manage it? Are there any supplements that can help? Answer : GOUT is a common type of arthritis caused by an increased concentration of uric acid, a by-product of protein metabolism in liver. It affects more men than women. Sudden attacks of severe joint pains occur when sharp crystals of uric acid (monosodium urates) form in fluid surrounding a joint due to an elevated level of uric acid in blood.
Foods that contain a high level of purine should be avoided, and these include red meats, organ meats and shellfish.
There are several herbs that have proven benefits for painful joints. Celery seed and guaiacum are two very popular ones. These are usually combined with other herbs such as ginger, capsicum and sarsaparilla for better synergistic effect.
Celery seed (Apium graveolens) helps kidneys dispose urates and other unwanted waste products as well as working to reduce acidity in body. The seeds are also a carminative, with a mild tranquilising effect. Guaiacum is used in Europe, especially in Britain, to help with arthritic and rheumatic conditions. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce muscle aches, joint pains and swelling. It is also diuretic and speeds elimination of toxins, which makes it valuable for treating gout.
