Introduction
Gout is a form of arthritis that develops when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints. Uric acid, on the other hand, is a waste product that is produced when the body breaks down purines, which are found in many foods. Normally, uric acid is dissolved in the blood and eliminated from the body through urine. However, when there is too much uric acid in the body, it can accumulate in the joints and form crystals, which leads to inflammation and pain. Is Cherry good for Gout? This is the question that we will seek to answer further down in this article.
In the United States, an estimated 9.2 million adults have been diagnosed with gout. Millions of individuals around the world suffer from this widespread illness. If you suffer from gout, you know how painful and debilitating the condition can be. Gout is a chronic condition, but it can be managed with the right approach to treatment. Gout can have a significant impact on a person’s health and quality of life. The condition can cause severe pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joints, which can make it difficult to perform everyday activities. Gout can also lead to other health problems, such as kidney stones and cardiovascular disease.
Is Cherry Good For Gout?
While there are medications available to treat gout, many people also look to natural remedies to alleviate their symptoms. One such remedy that has gained popularity is cherries. In this article, we will explore the topic, “Is Cherry Good For Gout?”.
I. What Are Cherries?
Cherries are a type of fruit that belongs to the same family as peaches, apricots, and plums. They are available in a range of colors, including red, yellow, and black. Cherries are packed with nutrients and are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Cherries have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the joints and alleviate gout symptoms.
Additionally, cherries contain compounds called anthocyanins, which give them their deep red color. These compounds have been found to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
II. Cherry And Gout Connection
Cherry is a fruit that has been studied for its potential to reduce gout flares. It contains compounds called anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Several studies have looked at the effects of cherries on gout, with promising results:
- A 2012 study published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatism found that consuming cherries over two days reduced the risk of gout attacks by 35% in participants who had a history of gout.
- A 2014 study published in the Journal of Functional Foods found that consuming cherry juice concentrate reduced serum urate levels in healthy individuals.
- A 2018 study published in the Journal of Arthritis Research & Therapy found that consuming cherries over three days reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in individuals with gout.
How Should Cherries Be Consumed For Gout?
If you’re looking to incorporate cherries into your diet to help with gout, here are some tips:
- Choose fresh, whole cherries over cherry juice or other cherry products, as they contain the highest levels of beneficial compounds.
- Aim for at least one cup of cherries per day.
- Cherry supplements are available, but it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before taking them.
- Keep in mind that while cherries may help alleviate gout symptoms, they should not replace medical treatment for gout.
The Role Of Diet In Gout Management
Diet plays a critical role in managing gout. Certain foods can trigger gout flares by increasing uric acid levels in the body. It is important to avoid or limit these foods and focus on consuming foods that may help reduce gout flares.
I. Foods To Avoid With Gout
- Organ meats, such as liver and kidneys
- Beef, lamb, and pork are examples of red meat
- Seafood, such as shrimp, crab, and lobster
- Sugary beverages, like fruit juice and soda
- Alcohol, especially beer
- Foods high in fructose, such as fruit and corn syrup
II. Foods That May Help Reduce Gout Flares
- Low-fat dairy products, such as milk and yogurt
- Healthy grains like quinoa and brown rice
- Fruits, such as cherries, strawberries, and blueberries
- Vegetables, such as kale, spinach, and broccoli
- Almonds and flaxseeds are two types of nuts and seeds that may help
- Plant-based proteins, such as beans and lentils
Conclusion – Is Cherry Good For Gout?
Cherries have shown promise in reducing the risk of gout attacks and alleviating gout symptoms. They are a tasty and nutritious addition to a gout-friendly diet. However, it’s important to remember that while cherries may be beneficial, they should not replace medical treatment for gout. If you suffer from gout, it’s important to work with a healthcare professional to develop a treatment plan that works for you.
Please see some references below, for further research on the benefits of cherries and gout flare-ups. Thank you for reading this article. If you believe that others can benefit from it, please share it by clicking on the share buttons below.
References
A. Citations For Studies And Research
Here are some citations for studies and research on cherry and gout:
Zhang Y, Neogi T, Chen C, Chaisson C, Hunter DJ, Choi HK. Cherry consumption and decreased risk of recurrent gout attacks. Arthritis Rheum. 2012;64(12):4004-4011. doi:10.1002/art.34677
Schlesinger N, Radvanski DC, Mccarthy B. Cherry juice concentrate decreases the uric acid pool, but does not alter urinary excretion of purines compared to placebo, in healthy males. Nutrition Research. 2019;61:46-54. doi: 10.1016/j.nutres.2018.08.005
Martin KR, Bopp J, Burrell L, Hook G. The effect of 100% tart cherry juice on serum uric acid levels, biomarkers of inflammation and cardiovascular disease risk factors. FASEB J. 2010;24(1_supplement):599.1-.1.
Jacob RA, Spinozzi GM, Simon VA, Kelley DS, Prior RL, Hess-Pierce B, Kader AA. Consumption of cherries lowers plasma urate in healthy women. J Nutr. 2003;133(6):1826-1829. doi:10.1093/jn/133.6.1826
Singh JA, Cleveland JD. Gout and diet: a review of the literature. Curr Opin Rheumatol. 2019;31(2):139-145. doi:10.1097/BOR.0000000000000574
Zhang Y, Chen C, Choi H, et al. Purine-rich foods intake and recurrent gout attacks. Ann Rheum Dis. 2012;71(9):1448-1453. doi:10.1136/annrheumdis-2011-201215
These studies provide evidence of the potential benefits of cherry and cherry juice in reducing gout flares and inflammation and suggest that cherry consumption may help lower serum uric acid levels. Additionally, the studies support the importance of dietary changes in gout management and highlight the role of purine-rich foods in gout flares.
B. Additional Resources For Gout Management
Here are some additional resources for gout management:
1. Arthritis Foundation – The Arthritis Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides education, advocacy, and support for people with arthritis and related conditions. They offer resources and information on gout management, including diet and lifestyle recommendations.
2. Gout and Uric Acid Education Society – This non-profit organization provides educational resources and information on gout and hyperuricemia. They offer guidelines for gout management, including information on medications, diet, and lifestyle changes.
3. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) – NIAMS is a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that conducts research and provides information on arthritis and related conditions. Their website offers resources and information on gout, including treatment options and tips for managing symptoms.
4. American College of Rheumatology – The American College of Rheumatology is a professional organization of rheumatologists and health professionals who specialize in the treatment of arthritis and related conditions. Their website provides guidelines and recommendations for gout management, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.
5. Mayo Clinic – The Mayo Clinic is a non-profit medical organization that provides patient care, research, and education. Their website offers information on gout, including causes, symptoms, and treatment options. They also provide diet and lifestyle recommendations for managing gout symptoms.
6. MedlinePlus – MedlinePlus is a consumer health information resource provided by the National Library of Medicine. Their website provides information on gout, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. They also offer tips for managing gout symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes.
