3 Common Traits of People with Gout
Gout is a disease that belongs to the arthritis family. While arthritis may be caused by things beyond our control, gout is often the result of bad choices we have made. This is not entirely true as heredity can play a part, but outside of heredity, we usually are our own worst enemies. Many gout attacks could be reduce or even prevented if we made better lifestyle choices. If gout patients can eliminate most of the common traits that exist from people who have this disease, they should see a serious reduction in gout attacks. Here are three common traits of people with gout.
1. Obesity. A large percentage of people who have gout are either overweight or obese. This makes sense in that the list of foods that cause gout tends to be fairly unhealthy. There are exceptions such as venison, but many of the foods you should avoid such as alcohol, bacon, and soft drinks are simply not healthy, especially when consumed in large quantities. By simply making better food choices and by eating in moderation, you will not only lose weight, you should also have less flare ups in the long run.
Make sure not to lose weight too quickly, though, or you will be sure to have an attack. The body is trying to adjust to the “newer” you when losing weight and your uric acid can get too high for your lower weight causing an attack. So, while it’s important to overcome obesity, don’t try to lose your weight all at once.
2. Not physically active. While some people who have physically demanding jobs get gout, many gout patients tend to live sedentary lifestyles. This can lead to the first common trait, obesity, and this can cause extra strain on the joints from being too heavy. Perform exercises that are lower impact until you get to an acceptable weight. This will ease the stress on your joints. Moderate exercise can improve your overall joint health assisting you in reducing the likelihood of more severe attacks.
3. Most are men over 40. While this common trait can’t be eliminated, it does give someone the ability to know they are susceptible to gout attacks. Therefore the older you get the more important it is to make better food choices, and to get control of your weight and to continue to be physically active. This is especially true if you have a family history of gout. While men do get gout more often, women can and do get gout. Women tend to get gout after menopause.
So, if you are obese, physically inactive, and a middle aged or older male who has had gout or a family history of gout, consider eliminating your excess weight and becoming more active. Consider looking for treatments for gout that you can implement that will help you keep clear of this painful disease.
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