Gout & Joint Health 2/4

Could Your Favorite Ice Cream Be Causing Gout?

2 min read

As the weather warms up, we all scream for ice cream! But, one of the most frequently asked questions is whether a person with gout can eat ice cream. Understanding the entire relationship between ice cream and gout and how it can affect your condition is critical.

Could Your Favorite Ice Cream Be Causing Gout?

The link between ice cream and gout: Does ice cream cause gout?

There's no denying that ice cream is delicious. But could this sweet treat be the cause of gout, a painful form of arthritis?

Although ice cream is rarely made with direct gout triggers like lobster or anchovies, its fat and fructose content is cause for concern. Ice cream contains a high percentage of fat from cream and eggs; quality, premium brands have a higher fat content than mainstream brands.

On the other hand, common ice cream ingredients can contribute to the high fructose level, including chocolate, honey, caramel sauce, cream cheese, and sweetener.

If you are a person who tends to have ice cream for dessert after a heavy meal or one containing other gout triggers, you may be setting yourself up for a painful gout attack.

Going without ice cream for gout patients?

When it comes to treating gout, diet plays a big role. While most ice cream is high in fat and fructose sugar, which can trigger a gout attack, there are some brands that offer low-fat or even sugar-free options.

When selecting an ice cream, be sure to check the label for the fat and fructose content. And remember, taking in moderation is part of a balanced diet to prevent a gout attack.

Other potential causes of gout: What else could be to blame?

Though gout is most commonly caused by genetics or food high in purines, there are other potential triggers that can cause this form of arthritis. These other triggers include:

Obesity: Those who are obese are more likely to develop gout, as excess weight puts additional pressure on the joints.
Alcohol: Drinking alcohol can also lead to gout, as it interferes with the body’s ability to process purines.
Medications: Some medications, such as diuretics and beta blockers, can also increase the risk of developing gout.

The bottom line on ice cream and gout

Gout is a painful type of arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, and high fat and fructose content food such as ice cream can have the potential to increase your risk of developing gout.

In the treatment of gout, moderation is always essential. So, instead of saying goodbye to your favourite pint of ice cream, you can still enjoy it while living a gout-free lifestyle by eating it in moderation.

Does Soy Increase Your Risk of Gout?

2 min read

Do you experience joint pain, inflammation, and swelling? Do you avoid certain foods because you're afraid of triggering an attack?

If you're living with gout, you know how debilitating and restrictive it can be. And soy might be one of the foods you're avoiding. But does soy really increase your risk of gout?

What Makes Up a Soybean?

Soybeans are a type of legume that is native to East Asia. They are part of the Fabaceae family, which includes other plants such as peanuts, lentils, and beans. Soybeans are a key ingredient in many Asian cuisines, and they can be used in a variety of dishes.

Soybeans are high in protein and fibre, and they also contain a range of vitamins and minerals. Soybeans are a good source of iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, manganese, and zinc. They also contain vitamin B6, folate, vitamin K, and thiamin.

Does Soy Intake Increase Uric Acid Levels?

Soy is a well-known source of protein, but it's also a common ingredient in many processed foods. There is a widespread belief, that gout sufferers should avoid soy and legume products because they are high in purine.

Uric acid is a waste product produced when the body breaks down purines. Purines are found in many foods, including soy. If uric acid levels become too high, it can lead to gout, kidney stones or can even lead to cardiovascular issues.

Contrary to the popular belief, a Singapore study done of over 50,000 Chinese in the country discovered that those who ate the most soy products had a lower risk of gout than those who ate the least.

In another study conducted in Hong Kong, soy consumption did not increase urate levels among Chinese postmenopausal women with prehypertension or prediabetes.

Purine Rating for Your Favorite Soyfoods!

Soy foods are generally listed as having a moderate amount of purines, ranging from 50 to 100 mg/100 g on purine content lists. The recommended daily amount of purine in the context of gout or hyperuricemia (high uric acid level in the blood) should not exceed 400mg/day.

It is to take note that different soy products may exhibit different purine content:

Soy foods	Rating
Bean curd lees (Okara)	1
Green soybean (edamame)	1
Soymilk	1
Tofu (Kinu)	1
Tofu (Momen, chilled)	1
Deep-fried tofu	2
Fermented soybean (Natto)	3
Soybean (dried)	3
Freeze-dried tofu	4

Despite the fact that studies have shown that soy does not significantly increase uric acid levels or gout attack incidences. It is generally recommended that people suffering from gout limit their intake of purine-rich foods.

Thus, it is still recommended to consume soy-based products in moderation.

So, if you're eating a diet that consists mostly of soy-based foods, you should aim for 3-4 servings per day. This will help ensure that you're getting all the nutrients your body needs, without overburdening it.

So, How Much Soy Can I Consume?

The amount of soy you can eat depends on the serving size. A serving of tofu, for example, is about ½ cup. A serving of tempeh is about 1/3 cup. And a serving of soy milk is about 1 cup.

So, if you're eating a diet that consists mostly of soy-based foods, you should aim for 3-4 servings per day. This will help ensure that you're getting all the nutrients your body needs, without overburdening it.

Soy Is Okay for Most Gout Patients

Based on the study, soy does not seem to increase your risk of gout. However, if you are already at risk for gout, it is still advisable to have soy foods in moderation.

Could Alkalizing Salt (URAL/ Clearogout) Help Eliminate Gout Symptoms?

3 min read

Gout is a type of arthritis that is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This can lead to pain, inflammation, and swelling.

There are medications that can help to reduce uric acid levels, but there may be other ways to help ease symptoms. One popular option is using uric acid neutralizing salts such as Ural effervescence or Clearogout. These over-the-counter products are designed to help relieve the painful symptoms of gout by preventing the crystallisation of uric acid crystals in joints.

Could Uric Acid Alkalizing Salt (URAL/ Clearogout) Help Eliminate Gout Symptoms?

How to Use These URAL or Clearogout Effeversence Alkalizing Salt?

Alkalizing salt works by raising the pH of urine, and by keeping urine alkaline, it prevents the formation of uric acid crystals and allows for the dissolution of uric acid stones.

When taking URAL effervescence salt, it is important to follow the dosage recommendations on the label. It is also important to drink plenty of water when taking this product in order to help the body absorb it properly.

The recommended dosage is in the range of 1-2 sachets, 4 times daily. [Total 4 – 8 sachets per day]

It is advised to take each dose after a meal, and just before taking, mix your prescribed dose of medication in a full glass of cold water or juice.

What Are the Ingredients inside the URAL/ Clearogout Alkalizing Salt?

Each sachet contains Sodium bicarbonate, tartaric acid, citric acid, and sodium citrate; with/ without flavourings added.

Any Side Effects for Taking URAL or Clearogout?

It is quite safe if taken for a short period of time and in accordance with the instructions provided by health care professionals. However, some people may want to remain cautious if they consume too much alkalizing salt and wish to take it for a long duration.

The preparation contains high sodium content per sachet - which may not suitable for patients with kidney and heart problems to take for a long duration.
High blood pressure patients may consider monitoring their blood pressure during the treatment course.
May potentially reduce the therapeutic effect of some medications. Do consult with medical practitioners if you are on long-term medications.
Some may have mild diarrhoea effects after taking the alkalizing salt.

It is also advisable that a low sodium diet should be considered while using alkalizing salt.

Are There Alternative Remedies for Gout Apart of URAL/ Clearogout Alkalizing Salt?

There are many remedies for gout relief. Some people find relief from over-the-counter medications, while others prefer natural solutions. For your convenience, here are some short and long-term remedies for references:

Short term relief

Drinking plenty of water - A person suffering from gout may experience significant swelling and inflammation. Drinking more water is one way to alleviate symptoms. Increased fluid consumption can stimulate the kidneys to release excess fluid, reducing swelling in gout patients.
Taking medications - Medications such as ibuprofen, and colchicine helps to reduce the inflammation and pain associated with gout attacks.
Using ice packs to reduce swelling - Applying a cloth-covered ice pack to the affected joint can help reduce gout-related inflammation.

Long term relief

Lose weight - One of the most important things you can do to help manage your gout is to lose weight if you are overweight or obese. Obesity is a well-known risk factor for gout, which is thought to be caused by insulin resistance and its effects on urate excretion by the kidney.
Follow a low purine diet - Avoid foods that are high in purine, such as red meat, poultry, seafood, and alcohol.
Supplements to regulate the uric acid level - There are several supplements that have been shown to be effective in reducing uric acid levels and relieving the symptoms of gout.

Conclusion - Could Uric Acid Alkalizing Salt Help Eliminate Gout Symptoms?

While more research is needed, uric acid alkalizing salt may be a good choice in providing short-term quick relief for gout symptoms. However, if you have certain medication conditions, such as high blood pressure or kidney problems, you should proceed cautiously.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for gout treatment, but it may involve a variety of disciplinary actions. Gout management can include lifestyle changes, supplementation, and weight loss.

If you need help with your gout problem, do contact us.