Gout is a form of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup in the body. The inefficient filtration of uric acid in the blood leads to its accumulation and crystallization. This condition is known as hyperuricemia. These crystals usually settle in the joints and cause severe pain, swelling, and stiffness. Typically, medication and lifestyle changes help manage the symptoms. Here are some of the most effective ways to treat gout.

1. Eat foods with vitamin C
Various reports say that high vitamin C levels in the body help lower purine levels, so one should try to include plenty of vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables in their diet. Additionally, one can opt to take a vitamin C supplement after consulting a certified physician. This can help reduce uric acid levels in the body and lower the risk of gout attacks to an extent.

2. Drink coffee
Coffee is a powerhouse of the antioxidant called chlorogenic acid. Chlorogenic acid is known to lower uric acid levels in the body and prevent gout attacks, but it’s advisable not to consume more than three to four cups of brewed coffee a day. More than that can lead to caffeine-related side effects like headaches, insomnia, and nervousness.

3. Avoid high-purine foods
The breakdown of purine in the body leads to the production of uric acid. Purines are naturally present in certain foods, so it’s best to avoid these to reduce flare-ups. Most importantly, one should avoid the purines found in animal meat and seafood as they cause the uric acid levels in the blood to shoot up. People with high uric acid levels should limit the consumption of purine-rich foods like organ meat, shellfish, oily fish like anchovies and tuna, and vegetables like asparagus, mushrooms, and spinach. Instead, one should go for low purine foods like nuts, peanut butter, eggs, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, berries, and other fruits.

4. Say no to sugary drinks and alcohol
Consuming liquor and beer is likely to raise uric acid levels in the body. Besides, alcohol is known to cause dehydration, due to which it stops the body from expelling excess uric acid. Similarly, soft drinks and other sugary drinks are harmful to gout patients as they contain high-fructose corn syrup. Instead, one can choose herbal teas if they want to have a beverage.

Along with eating right, maintaining a healthy body weight is necessary to keep uric acid levels in control. Being overweight or obese makes the kidneys over overtime and impacts the body’s uric acid filtration process. So, one should ensure daily workouts to keep the symptoms of gout under check. That said, these fast and effective ways to flush out gout are not substitutes for medication and can only help manage the symptoms.