8 Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Gout
Not all anti-inflammatory foods prevent gout. Eating anti-inflammatory foods on a daily basis drastically reduces the risk of many life-threatening diseases that target the heart, bones, brain, and blood sugar. Gout is caused when excess uric acid runs through the bloodstream. The best anti-inflammatory foods are the ones that check uric acid levels in the blood. Here is a list of eight anti-inflammatory foods for gout.
1. Apples
Apple contains malic acid that neutralizes the uric acid in the blood. Eating an apple a day can prevent gout; however, as apples contain fructose, the servings have to be restricted to no more than one. Doctors report that people who suffer from gout triggers have to avoid consumption of gout-triggering foods and beverages like red meat, organ meats, and alcohol.
2. Olive oil
Cold-pressed olive oil has an abundance of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds such as polyphenols. Furthermore, it has mono-saturated fats, making it the best oil to prevent gout. Olive oil further reduces joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis.
3. Celery
Celery contains anti-inflammatory compounds, including luteolin, that reduce uric acid production in the body. Celery and celery seeds can be consumed on a daily basis as they eliminate toxins and other wastes from the renal glands and the urinary tract.
4. Cruciferous vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, and cauliflower contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. These decrease the level of uric acid in the blood. Additionally, these vegetables are excellent for preventing heart diseases and cancer.
5. Berries
Berries contain anthocyanin that has anti-inflammatory properties. Anthocyanin works specifically in neutralizing and reducing uric acid levels. It prevents the crystallization of uric acid on the joints. Overall, they are one of the best anti-gout fruits.
6. Salmon and other omega-3 fatty acids rich seafood
Fish such as salmon, mackerel, cod, lake trout, tuna, anchovies, Alaska Pollock, scallops, shrimp, clams, lobsters, sardines, mussels, and the Atlantic herrings are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are excellent antioxidants for preventing and treating gout. However, only half a serving of seafood is recommended as they have high purine levels.
7. Black pepper
Black pepper contains anti-arthritic and anti-rheumatic properties such as eliminating uric acid and other toxins from the body. Additionally, they alleviate joint pain arising due to arthritis, rheumatism, and gout. Doctors recommend consuming at least two teaspoons of raw black pepper. You can also have black pepper oil every day to prevent gout attacks.
8. Pineapples
Pineapples contain bromelain, an anti-inflammatory compound that decreases gout pain by dissolving uric acid deposits in the joints. Doctors recommend eating no more than half a cup of pineapple a day as they also contain fructose, which can spike uric acid levels in the blood.