Choosing Between Natural Gout Remedies and Medications

Understanding Gout and Its Causes

Gout is an ancient affliction, increasingly prevalent in our fast-paced, convenience-driven society, which often leads to obesity and degenerative diseases. This condition, characterized by an overly acidic body due to suboptimal lifestyle choices, has been a serious affliction throughout history and is resurging with intensity.

Factors Contributing to Body Acidity

Several factors contribute to the accumulation of acidity in the body:

• Diet: The food and beverages we consume, such as fast food, high fructose corn syrup, poor quality meats, and genetically modified foods, are often acid-forming when ingested.
• Respiration: The way we breathe and the quality of air we breathe can affect body pH. Smoking, air pollution, and poor breathing habits can lead to low blood oxygen saturation and increased acidity.
• Metabolism: The metabolic chemicals produced by our bodies, especially during stress, can result in acidic byproducts if not properly managed.
• Environmental Exposure: Substances absorbed through the skin from solvents, soaps, fuels, and cosmetics can be acid-forming when metabolized.

The Role of Diet in Gout

The consumption of high-purine foods is commonly associated with gout, as uric acid is formed from the breakdown of purines. Foods like organ meats, shellfish, and certain beans and grains are often highlighted. However, these foods also contribute to acidosis, an overall acidic bodily condition that affects not just the joints but other organs and systems.

Pharmaceutical Interventions for Gout

Common Gout Medications

The two most widely used gout medications are Allopurinol and Colchicine:

• Allopurinol: This drug is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, which reduces uric acid production. While effective, it can have side effects ranging from minor to severe and does not address the broader issue of acidosis.
• Colchicine: Derived from the Autumn Crocus plant, Colchicine is an anti-inflammatory that prevents uric acid crystal deposition. However, it can cause gastrointestinal issues if misused.

New Medications on the Market

• Krystexxa: At the time of writing, Krystexxa has not been approved by the FDA due to safety concerns, including deaths during clinical trials. It aims to break down uric acid rather than inhibit its production.
• Uloric: Similar to Allopurinol, Uloric is another xanthine oxidase inhibitor with potential side effects like chest pain and nausea.

The Case for Natural Remedies

Natural gout remedies focus on lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments to reduce the body's acid levels. By managing stress, improving breathing habits, and choosing less acidic foods, individuals can potentially reduce or eliminate the need for prescription drugs.

Lifestyle Changes to Consider

• Dietary Adjustments: Emphasizing alkaline-forming foods and reducing purine-rich foods can help manage gout naturally.
• Breathing Techniques: Practicing deep breathing exercises to improve oxygen saturation and reduce acidity.
• Stress Management: Engaging in activities like yoga, meditation, or exercise to manage cortisol levels.
• Environmental Awareness: Choosing natural and organic products to minimize skin absorption of synthetic chemicals.

Conclusion: Balancing Natural and Medical Approaches

While pharmaceutical drugs may be necessary for immediate relief and management of severe gout symptoms, they should not be the long-term goal for health. Reversing the habits that lead to gout can reduce the perpetual need for medication. A balanced approach that includes both natural remedies and medical treatments, when necessary, can be the most effective strategy for managing gout.

For more information on gout and its management, reputable sources such as the Mayo Clinic and Arthritis Foundation offer valuable insights.