Gout is a painful and debilitating condition, an inflammatory arthropathy which is often characterized by tenderness, redness and warmth in a joint or multiple joints. Stiffness and swelling are also common symptoms, and in some cases, there can be sudden attacks of intense pain that can be quite severe. It’s estimated that around 2 million people in the United States suffer from gout and there is no known cure. But is drinking coffee something that might help with gout?
Coffee is high in antioxidants and can provide numerous benefits to health, including reducing inflammation, diminishing levels of uric acid, and relieving the pain from gout. Although there is no clinical evidence that drinking coffee directly prevents gout, evidence from studies support somewhat its beneficial effect in reducing the risk of developing gout. Studies have shown the risk of gout was lower in those who drank above four cups of coffee per day than those who drank less, or “abstainers”. It’s thought that caffeine in coffee is thought to be responsible for improved uric acid excretion and improved kidney function.
Inflammatory Enzymes
The anti-inflammatory properties found in coffee are caused by the presence of certain enzymes that have a direct effect on inflammation. The enzymes present in coffee help to reduce the inflammation within the joints, which can help to reduce pain and allow for a better range of motion. This makes consuming coffee a great option for those looking for a natural way to alleviate some of the pain associated with gout. The presence of certain antioxidants in coffee can also help to rid the body of toxins and protect against further inflammation.
Dr. Claudia M. Caron, a nutritional biochemist, points out that coffee is rich in polyphenols and powerful antioxidants that can reduce inflammation, which is a common symptom of gout. Research has found that drinking four cups of coffee per day can reduce the risk of gout by up to 45% in men and 24% in women. Additionally, it is also believed that the antioxidants in coffee can help to protect the joints from the damaging effects of free radicals, which can contribute to pain and swelling.
Coffee Reduces Uric Acid Levels
Uric acid is a common cause of gout, and is created when the body breaks down certain chemicals. Drinking coffee may be beneficial for those suffering from gout, as research has indicated that it can help to reduce uric acid levels in the body. This can help to lower the risk of an attack of gout, as well as reducing the severity of an attack if one does occur. Coffee is also known to be an effective diuretic, which can help to flush the uric acid from the body
Side Effects of Drinking Too Much Coffee
Though drinking coffee can be beneficial for your overall health, drinking too much can bring about certain risks. Too much caffeine can cause anxiety, jitteriness, and insomnia. Too much coffee can also increase heart rate, blood pressure, and dehydrate, which can be dangerous for those suffering from gout, as dehydration can aggravate the condition. It’s also important to note that even though coffee can help reduce inflammation and the pain associated with gout, drinking too much can actually increase the risk of a gout flare-up. Moderation is key.
Blood Pressure and Diabetes
For those with pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, drinking coffee can be beneficial in that it can help to lower blood pressure and glucose levels. Those with hypertension can benefit from moderate amounts of coffee due to its polyphenols, as they can help to reduce inflammation that is caused by high blood pressure and can potentially help prevent heart attack and other circulatory system diseases. Additionally, it is believed that coffee consumption can help to reduce the risk of type-2 diabetes.
Conclusion
Drinking coffee can provide numerous health benefits, but is it beneficial for those with gout? While there isn’t much evidence to suggest that drinking coffee can actively prevent gout, there are some studies that suggest it can reduce the risk of developing gout, and drinking coffee can also reduce the severity of gout flare-ups and reduce levels of uric acid, providing a more comfortable and less painful experience. However, it is important to remember that moderation is key and drinking too much coffee can have some negative effects for those suffering from gout. Always speak to your doctor before making any drastic changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Diet and Exercise
In addition to abstaining from alcohol, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine in order to reduce the risk of gout. Eating a diet high in fiber and low in purines can help reduce levels of uric acid and help to reduce the risk of gout. Additionally, regular exercise can help to improve overall health and reduce inflammation, which can relieve some of the pain and discomfort associated with the condition. Exercise should be done in moderation, however, as sudden and strenuous activity can exacerbate the symptoms of gout.
Medication
When it comes to managing gout, there are many medications available that can help to reduce the levels of uric acid in the body and reduce inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen are often prescribed for gout, as well as steroidal medications like prednisone. Additionally, medications like allopurinol may be prescribed to reduce uric acid levels. Always speak with your doctor before taking any medications.
Lifestyle Changes
Making lifestyle changes is an essential part of managing gout, as certain habits can aggravate the symptoms of the condition. It’s important to try to reduce stress, as emotional stress can exacerbate the symptoms of gout. Additionally, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight, as obesity is a risk factor for gout. Finally, it’s important to abstain from alcohol, as it can increase inflammation and worsen gout attacks.
