Gout, also known as ‘Gouty Arthritis,' is a type of arthritis caused by an accumulation of uric acid in the joints. This condition often leads to symptoms such as redness, swelling, tenderness, and intense bouts of pain, typically impacting the big toe.
A critical approach to mitigating the symptoms of gout involves abstaining from alcohol and foods that elevate the body's uric acid levels. However, a natural remedy that has proven effective for many gout sufferers is apple cider vinegar (ACV). ACV is known to offer relief from gout pain.
How Apple Cider Vinegar Alleviates Gout
The key ingredient in ACV that aids in combating gout is acetic acid. Although acetic acid itself is acidic, it transforms into an alkaline substance when ingested.
This transformation induces a pH-balanced environment within the body. Maintaining this alkaline environment is essential in the process of alleviating gout symptoms. Once the body's alkalinity is preserved, the recurrence of gout symptoms is less likely.
As per Dr. Theodore Baroody, author of ‘Alkalize or Die,' the initial phase of using ACV to treat gout may lead to an increase in symptoms. This increase is a reaction to the uric acid, which causes inflammation as the acid crystals dissolve. Yet, these reactions should subside within a few weeks.
Here are some additional reasons why ACV is beneficial for gout sufferers:
- The malic acid in ACV neutralizes and dissolves uric acid.
- ACV contains potassium which aids in the elimination of waste.
- The amino acids in ACV can lead to decreased toxicity levels.
Gout sufferers may require larger doses of ACV to experience symptom relief, such as consuming two tablespoons of ACV up to three times daily.
Some individuals report experiencing relief within a few hours of ACV consumption, while others may only notice an improvement after a few days. If you experience stomach upset after consuming ACV, it is advisable to avoid it or consume it in smaller quantities.
Quick Relief with a ‘Shot' of Apple Cider Vinegar
Gout can cause excruciating pain. To alleviate the pain quickly, many gout sufferers take a ‘shot glass' of ACV, followed immediately by a glass of water.
It's important to drink plenty of water after consuming ACV, as dehydration can exacerbate gout symptoms. Additionally, ample water intake aids the body in eliminating toxins and uric acid crystals.
Other Methods of Using ACV for Gout
If consuming pure ACV is challenging, you can add two teaspoons of ACV to other juices. Cherry juice, in particular, can be beneficial as it has been shown to alleviate gout symptoms, providing a ‘double dose' of relief when combined with ACV.
ACV can also be applied topically for gout relief. Here are a few methods:
- Try an ACV wrap overnight to prevent gout attacks. Soak a clean cloth in ACV, wrap it around the affected area, and secure it with plastic wrap and a bandage.
- Fill a spray bottle with ACV and spray it on the affected area. For added relief, refrigerate the ACV before spraying. Repeat this every hour until the pain subsides.
- Pour ACV into ice cube trays and freeze. Apply the frozen cubes to the affected area.
When purchasing ACV for oral use, select an unfiltered and unpasteurized variety.