Gout Remedy using Baking Soda

Gout is a condition caused due to an abnormal metabolism of uric acid in the body. When people suffer from gout, the body is either producing too much of uric acid or is unable to get rid of any excess from the body. Uric acid is produced as a byproduct when the body breaks down purines, which is a compound that is present in many food groups. Normally, the uric acid produced, dissolves in the blood and is transferred into the urine through the kidney. When an individual suffers from gout, the level of uric acid in the blood is abnormally high and the body is unable to dispose it. The excess uric acid crystallizes and deposits itself in the tissues and joint. When uric acid deposits itself, over a prolonged period, it causes the tissues and the lining of the joints to get inflamed, thus resulting in a lot of pain and discomfort. Accumulation of these crystals over several years leads to the formation of large deposits on the bones and tissues, called tophi, which are usually found near the joints or over the fingers and toes.

There are several reasons that could be responsible for this condition.

• Genetics: There is a 20% possibility that a person will suffer from gout if his/her parents had it.
• Alcohol: Any kind of alcoholic drink, particularly beer, can cause gout.
• Diet: Eating foods that contain high level of purines can lead to gout. For example, red meats, oily fish, and so on.
• Kidney dysfunction: This is when the kidneys are unable to get rid of the uric acid in the blood stream.

Baking soda is usually considered as an effective remedy for gout. The fluids present in our body have acidic as well as alkaline components. The level of acidity or alkalinity is measured on a pH scale ranging from 0-14. A reading of 7 is considered neutral, anything below 7 acidic and anything above 7, alkaline. When the uric acid levels increase, the pH levels drop thus making the acid less soluble. Baking soda makes the acid more soluble thereby, increasing the pH levels of the body. An increase in the alkaline levels also facilitates in dissolving the uric acid and reduces the possibility of new ones from being formed. However, it is important that you know that baking soda has some very serious repercussions, including increased blood pressure, mood swings, vomiting and nausea etc. Please consult your physician before you start taking it.