An HSI member offers effective gout relief tips

Gout patients are an independent bunch.

I say that because I frequently receive e-mails from HSI members who have discovered new ways to prevent gout flare- ups and relieve symptoms without using drugs.

The latest dispatch from the frontline of the gout battle comes from a member named Lee who writes: “I take about 1,500 mg of each, every day – artichoke, turmeric & celery seed. Artichoke lowers uric acid. Turmeric is an anti- inflammatory (take carefully in premeasured pills – an overdose could cause coma). Celery seed is an anti- inflammatory & lowers uric acid.

“Alcohol, sugar, Cola & salt works against you. Water is very good & necessary. After five years of my daily treatment, if it returns, I discover it’s because I am not drinking enough water. This is my version of the gout cure.”

Reduced uric acid – check.

Improved anti-inflammatory response – check.

Lee is absolutely on the right track with his use of botanicals to prevent gout attacks (although, gout patients should talk to a doctor or a trusted health professional before trying any of these methods).

You can find more information about the way soft drinks trigger gout symptoms in the e-Alert “Soft and Sweet and Trouble” (3/17/08), along with information about “The Gout Relief Handbook.”