Gout

Dr. Karen Vieira & Shawn Stevenson

What is Gout?

• Gout is inflammation in a joint or joints• It is like a type of arthritis  • It's accurately referred to as Metabolic Arthritis• It's a result of a build-up throughout the body of a

metabolic waste product known as uric acid• Occurs more commonly in men than women• Becomes more likely to occur as you age

The Symptoms Of Gout• Swollen joints• Tenderness• Redness• Strong pain• Heat• Fatigue• Fever• Elevated levels of uric acid

The Chemistry Behind Gout

The Causes Of Gout

• Improper elimination of urate (salts of uric acid)

• Overproduction of uric acid• Obesity• Hypertension• Insulin resistance• Sleep apnea

Blood Tests Check For Gout• Uric acid blood test will identify your

current uric acid level• This is a strong predictor of gout• High uric acid means your pain and

inflammation is likely gout• Low uric acid levels means your pain and

inflammation is likely not gout

Medications and Problems With Them

• NSAIDS (except aspirin) to relieve pain during attacks [side effects: kidney failure, liver failure, ulcers, uncontrollable bleeding, cardiovascular events]

• Colchecine - an anti-inflammatory to relieve pain during attacks [side effects: low white and red blood cell count, nerve damage in arms and legs]

• Glucocorticoids are steroid hormones to relieve pain during attacks

• Probenecid or allopurinol to lower uric acid levels [side effects: anemia, liver failure, joint pain, kidney stones]

Dietary Changes

• Keep channels of elimination clean and functioning properly

• VIGOROUSLY ensure proper gut environmento Some uric acid is eliminated by beneficial bacteria

in the gut.• Stay super-hydrated -> this will prevent uric acid

from becoming too concentrated• Use proven systemic alkalinizing practices• AVOID activities that decrease uric acid metabolism

(esp. alcohol, oxidized fats, processed carbohydrates)

Lifestyle Changes

• Exercise (the double-edged sword for gout)• Sweat• Body work• Clearing up channels of elimination

Supplements & Foods to Incorporate

• Apple cider vinegar • Noni - COX-2 inhibitor, clinically shown to inhibit

xanthine oxidase (XO) enzymes• Tart cherries• Dandelion• Alkaline superfood blends (in some cases) • Turmeric or curcumin