Gout is a kind of arthritis (i.e. inflammation of the joint), that occurs due to an amplified concentration of uric acid in the serum / blood.

Uric acid is liberated by purine breakdown. In gouty arthritis, the uric acid crystals get accumulated in the joints, kidneys, tendons and other tissues, where they cause inflammation and subsequent damage.

How do Cherries Treat Gout?

Cherries are extremely valuable in the management of gout, and bring about rapid improvement in the symptoms.

The person shows unusually high levels of uric acid in the blood. The body either synthesizes excessive amounts of uric acid or expels too little. As a result, the level of uric acid in the blood shoots up. With an increase in the uric acid, uric acid crystals form. These crystals build up in the joints and trigger swelling and pain.

Cherries are packed with anthocyanidins, which are flavanoids that exercise powerful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Anthocyanidins hold back the action of the enzyme xanthine oxidase, which is engaged in the synthesis of uric acid.

Research and clinical trials say that consuming approximately 250 grams of cherries every day, decreases the serum uric acid level significantly and checks episodes of gouty pains.

What’s more, anthocyanidins obstruct COX 1 and the COX 2 enzymes, and consequently operate as potent anti-inflammatory agents. They help reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain related to gout.

Include Cherries in the Daily Diet for protection against Gout

While buying the fruit, opt for those that are moist and cool, with a bright and shiny skin. Cherries should be firm, not hard. Avoid soft and soggy fruits, and those with bruises and cuts. Brown bruising is a sign of decay.

Here are some superb and delicious ideas to add cherries to the daily menu:

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• Cherry soup is a brilliant way of receiving the prescribed amount of the fruit. Sour or sweet cherries can be used to make the soup. Steam the cherries in water. Cook until soft. Then blend. Add honey as per taste. Serve cold.
• As an alternative to strawberry shortcake, make cherry shortcakes. Divide a low fat cake in to two, and place chopped cherries. Add a dollop of vanilla yogurt or cream. Cheery shortcake is a delectable, but, nutritious dessert.
• Cherries and yogurt make a nutritious and wholesome smoothie.

Most importantly, ensure that the consumption of purine-rich foods, such as mackerel, herring, anchovies, organ meat, legumes, yeast, mushroom, shellfish, peas and spinach is low. A low-purine, low-protein, low-fat and high-water diet guarantees permanent freedom from gout.