Is drinking coffee good for gout? Gout is a debilitating and painful form of arthritis. It causes recurrent episodes of swelling, intense pain, joint stiffness and tenderness in the joint area. The cause of gout is high levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. There are a number of treatments available to help control gout, however, few of them are backed by scientific evidence. One such treatment is coffee.
Coffee contains a range of beneficial compounds that can help to reduce the levels of uric acid in the blood, making it an attractive treatment for gout. Caffeine, for example, is known to increase uric acid levels, but reports from most scientific studies suggest that it is beneficial in reducing inflammation associated with gout. Moreover, caffeine has been shown to reduce the risk of colchicine, a widely used gout medication, from being expelled from your body before it can start to work.
In addition to caffeine, coffee is also high in antioxidants, which have also been found to reduce inflammation and improve general wellness. A study from 2016 showed that drinking at least one cup a day of coffee could reduce the risk of gout by up to half. Similarly, an earlier study in 2002 suggested that drinking three cups of coffee a day could significantly reduce the risk of developing gout attacks.
It is important to note, however, that not all types of coffee are beneficial for people with gout. Regular, caffeinated coffee has been found to reduce the risk of gout compared to decaffeinated coffee, suggesting that the beneficial compounds such as caffeine are only present in caffeinated coffee. Additionally, people with gout should avoid adding extra sugars and fats to their coffee, as these additives have been found to increase inflammation.
Hydration
In addition to the beneficial compounds found in coffee, hydration is also an important factor when it comes to managing gout attacks. When your body is dehydrated, it is unable to effectively control the levels of uric acid in the blood, leading to higher levels of this acid in your system. Therefore, it is important to increase your intake of water to replenish the fluids your body loses during physical activity. Additionally, water helps flush out toxins from the body, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
Studies have shown that drinking two to three glasses of plain water a day can significantly reduce the risk of gout attacks, as well as reducing the duration and intensity of the pain associated with them. Therefore, it is important to establish a daily drinking routine so that you can keep your body properly hydrated throughout the day.
Diet
When it comes to treating gout, diet also plays an important role. Foods that are high in purines can increase the levels of uric acid in the bloodstream, leading to an increase in the severity and frequency of gout attacks. Therefore, an effective way to reduce the risk of gout is to avoid these foods. Some common sources of purines are red meat, organ meats, processed foods, alcohol and foods that are high in refined sugars.
Additionally, some foods have been found to have beneficial effects on gout. Foods that are high in soluble fibre, such as oats and barley, are known to reduce the risk of gout. Similarly, studies have also suggested that diets rich in fruits and vegetables can help to reduce the risk of developing gout, as these foods contain antioxidants that can help to reduce inflammation.
Finally, the Mediterranean diet has been found to be beneficial for people with gout. This diet is rich in olive oil, whole grains, fish and nuts, while being low in processed and refined foods. Studies have found that following this type of diet can reduce the risk of gout attacks and help to mitigate the severity of the symptoms.
Medications
Medications can also be taken to reduce the severity of gout attacks. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to manage gout symptoms. Additionally, colchicine can be prescribed to relieve the pain associated with gout, as well as reducing the frequency of attacks. However, it is important to note that both colchicine and NSAIDs can have serious side effects and should always be taken in consultation with a doctor.
It is also possible to take supplement to help to manage gout symptoms. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are two supplements that are thought to help ease the pain and swelling associated with gout. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids have also been found to reduce inflammation, making them a useful supplement for people suffering from gout.
Exercise
Regular physical activity can also help to reduce the risk of gout attacks. Exercise reduces inflammation, strengthens the immune system, and helps to maintain a healthy weight, all of which can reduce the severity of gout symptoms. Furthermore, exercise can also help to reduce the amount of uric acid in the blood, which can help to reduce the frequency of attacks.
Low-impact activities, such as walking and swimming, are particularly effective when it comes to managing gout symptoms. Additionally, gentle stretching exercises can also be beneficial, as they can help to reduce inflammation and tension in the joints. It is important to ensure that these exercises are being performed properly to avoid injury.
Weight
Being overweight is a major risk factor for gout, as obesity can increase the levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight is a key part of managing gout. Reducing the amount of calories consumed and increasing physical activity can help to reduce weight and reduce the risk of gout. Additionally, making healthy lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption can also help to mitigate the risk of developing gout.
One way to monitor your weight is to measure your body mass index (BMI). A BMI of 25 or under is considered to be healthy, and it should be kept in that range for optimal health. It is also important to remember to get regular check ups with your doctor to ensure that the weight you are carrying is healthy, and that the risk of developing gout remains low.
Alternative Treatments
In addition to the treatments mentioned above, there are also a number of alternative treatments that can help to reduce gout symptoms. Acupuncture has been found to be helpful in managing pain, while herbal remedies such as turmeric can also reduce inflammation. Additionally, dietary supplements such as fish oil, tart cherry juice and probiotics have been found to reduce the severity of gout flare-ups.
Finally, certain lifestyle changes can also help to reduce gout symptoms. Limiting stress levels, getting enough quality sleep, and maintaining a positive attitude can all help to mitigate the risk of developing gout. Additionally, avoiding triggering foods and reducing the amount of salt in your diet can help to reduce the severity of gout flare-ups.
