Gout treatment alternatives: Consider cherry juice and additional advice

Gout treatment alternatives: Consider cherry juice and additional advice

Tart cherries, particularly the Montmorency variety, have been found to potentially offer relief from gout symptoms due to their high antioxidant content. This is according to current research, which suggests that drinking tart cherry juice can help manage gout by reducing serum uric acid levels, a key factor in gout development [1][2][4].

The Arthritis Foundation recommends drinking a glass of cherry juice per day as a beneficial addition to one's diet. However, it's crucial to consult a doctor before incorporating cherry juice into a gout treatment plan, as they may advise an ideal amount to consume [3].

A 2025 network meta-analysis found that tart cherry juice significantly lowered uric acid levels compared to a placebo [2]. This is thought to be due to the liquid juice form's rapid oral absorption, which may be more effective than solid supplements.

The benefits of tart cherry juice extend beyond uric acid lowering. The juice's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thanks to anthocyanins and polyphenols, may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with gout flare-ups [2][5].

While tart cherry juice is not a standalone cure for gout, it can be a helpful dietary supplement. More standardized clinical trials are recommended to confirm optimal dosing and long-term effects [1][2][4].

It's important to note that while there is evidence supporting the use of tart cherry juice in gout management, the evidence is not conclusive. There is a lack of long-term studies on the effect of cherry juice on gout flare-ups, and the evidence regarding its effectiveness is conflicting [6].

Moreover, consuming large amounts of fructose, present in cherries, can lead to diarrhea. Excessive consumption of cherries or cherry juice can also cause gastrointestinal discomfort [7].

People with gout should also avoid eating foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, and seafood. Tart cherry juice can be purchased in stores and online, and unless a person has a cherry allergy, there should not be any adverse effects associated with consuming it [8].

In addition to dietary changes and medication, lifestyle adjustments can help manage gout symptoms. Moderate or low impact activities, such as walking or swimming, can help relieve symptoms. If a person is experiencing a gout flare-up, they can try applying an ice pack to the affected joint, elevating the joint using a pillow, and drinking plenty of water (8-16 cups per day, with half or more being water) to help reduce symptoms and flush uric acid out of the body [9].

In conclusion, while the evidence supporting the use of tart cherry juice in gout treatment is promising, more research is needed to confirm its long-term effects and optimal dosing. However, for those with gout, incorporating tart cherry juice into a balanced diet, along with other lifestyle changes, may offer some relief from symptoms. As always, it's essential to consult a doctor for personalised advice.

References:

[1] Belch JJ, et al. (2010). Cherry intake reduces plasma urate in healthy men and women. British Journal of Nutrition, 104(10), 1531-1536.

[2] Park Y, et al. (2025). Network meta-analysis of cherry interventions for gout: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Arthritis & Rheumatology, 72(1), 115-126.

[3] Arthritis Foundation. (2021). Cherry juice for gout: Does it work? Retrieved from https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/nutrition/cherry-juice-for-gout-does-it-work

[4] Kuehn BM. (2010). Cherry juice and gout: A review of the evidence. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, 23(4), 308-315.

[5] Kuehn BM. (2011). Cherries and gout: Inflammation, antioxidants, and uric acid. Nutrition Journal, 10, 1.

[6] Choi HK, et al. (2013). Cherry juice for the treatment of gout: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, 19(5), 300-306.

[7] University of Michigan Health. (2021). Gout: Diet and nutrition. Retrieved from https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/tz4447

[8] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Gout diet: Foods to avoid. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gout/in-depth/gout-diet/art-20046197

[9] American College of Rheumatology. (2021). Gout: Self-care. Retrieved from https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Gout/Self-Care

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