What Causes Gout?
Gout is on the rise. In this post, let’s look at what to do about it. I included a helpful protocol at the end for you!
The first step to approaching gout, is to get to know what causes it.
In a previous post, I mentioned how liver congestion is on the rise. Well it just so happens, that gout is also on the rise! And a fatty liver can certainly worsen gout. This is due to the fact that something called uric acid is made in the liver and is a waste product from the metabolism of purines. It is a water-soluble antioxidant that is produced in the liver and cleared mainly by the kidneys. Preventing or recovering from gout requires a focus on both your God designed liver and your God designed kidneys. A struggling liver will produce more uric acid and struggling kidneys will have a harder time excreting it. This is why viewing your God designed body as interconnected instead of just isolating each organ and system is really important.
Okay, so back to uric acid.
When levels of uric acid become too high, it can build up and form stones or crystals and contribute to many issues like gout and uric acid kidney stones. An elevated uric acid level is also a strong risk factor for metabolic syndrome, kidney diseaseand heart disease. When levels of uric acid get to high to leads to Gout. Uric acid crystals form in the joints, typically in the big toe (where it is called a podagra). Gout flares will often cause redness, swelling, heat and pain in the joint, and are often really painful. Some people say it feels like their toe is on fire. It can also occur in other places of the body, and the affected joint will become swollen and tender.
What causes those uric acid levels to rise?
Dehydration - keep in mind, this can also result in falsely elevated levels on a lab test (remember to rule it out when looking at labs)
High intake of high fructose corn syrup and other processed sugars ( start reading those food labels!)
Excessive alcohol consumption, all types, not just beer and liquor as was once thought
NAFLD or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Higher leptin levels, as found in those with obesity
Low thyroid function (this can happen cellularly, not just full blown hypothyroid)
Medications like diuretics
Low estrogen - men are more at risk than premenopausal women, but the risk goes up for women post-menopause
Kidney problems. This is due to the fact that your kidneys have reduced clearance
High levels of stress and anxiety
In light of this knowledge, what can we do?
First, review my post on liver health. I will be posting one on kidney health as well, so keep an eye out for it!
Here are a few other tips:
Ensure you are hydrating - uric acid levels become more concentrated with dehydration. This doesn't mean just drinking plain water. You need minerals to properly hydrate (see my post on minerals)!
Avoid alcohol.
Add more potassium to your diet.
Vitamin C, which increases the excretion of uric acid in the urine.
Here is an example protocol you can talk to your primary provider about:
For pain and inflammation during a flare:
Curcumin + Tart cherry extract 2-3 times a day. Leefy Prana Organics has a great combo formula.
The juice of 1/2 lemon mixed with a warm class of water with a sprinkle of sea salt twice per day.This helps with digestion as well as reducing uric acid concentration.
As always, reduce stress. Stress can trigger gouty attacks. I have tons of posts on this, and even a course!
Hope this helps you navigate your gout journey.
