When gout turns… DEADLY?

There’s a painful inflammatory condition that affects millions of people in the U.S.

It’s common in older adults…

And telltale signs are joint tenderness and swelling, particularly around the big toe.

I’m talking about gout.

This condition is often debilitating. And now, research reveals it could contribute to LIFE-THREATENING conditions.

Here’s everything you need to know…

Gout affects the heart, too

In a study published in JAMA, gout sufferers may experience an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Researchers gathered data from Britain’s Clinical Practice Research Data System. They analyzed just over 62,500 gout patients.

Ultimately, those who experienced a cardiovascular event had significantly greater odds of a recent gout flare in the past one to three months, compared to those who didn’t suffer a heart attack or stroke.

Not to mention, the risk remained heightened up to six months after a flare.

Now, I should mention that this was an observational study. Meaning results don’t prove causation.

But it does highlight the importance of taming inflammation within the body.

Dietary choices matter

Gout is caused by a build-up of uric acid that your body doesn’t properly excrete. Then, tiny crystals form around the joint, causing inflammation (and pain).

And where do you find uric acid? In food and beverages.

So, if you’re prone to this inflammatory condition, re-evaluating your dietary choices is key. (Bonus: A healthy, balanced diet also supports heart health!)

I generally have my gout patients follow my A-List Diet, but with an emphasis on more alkaline foods.

(For an extensive list of alkaline foods, check out the July 2013 issue of my monthly Logical Health Alternatives newsletter [“A shocking truth about ‘getting older’ the medical industry doesn’t want you to know about”]. Click here to become a subscriber and gain immediate access!)

In short, aim to add more lean protein (chicken eggs, lamb, fish, turkey, venison, and more), tons of fresh veggies (particularly dark, leafy greens), and heighten your intake of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) from sources like macadamia nuts and avocados.

You must also cut sugar, including high fructose corn syrup.That includes sugar-sweetened beverages, like soda. In fact, research shows these options can actually increase uric acid levels (and blood pressure readings).

Start there, then add in a brisk walk daily—and you’ll take care of your gout risk, while strengthening your heart, in one fell swoop.

Until next week,
Dr. Fred

Source:
“Gout Flare? Watch Out for Cardiovascular Events.” MedPage Today, 08/02/2022. (medpagetoday.com/rheumatology/generalrheumatology/100029)