G-out

G-out is a new supplement designed to prevent the pain and inflammation caused by gout.

Gout is a type of arthritis in which uric acid builds up in the blood, leading to deposits of uric acid crystals in tissues like the joints. It leads to painful joint inflammation, often targeting a single joint at a time (such as the big toe). Gout is usually seen in men over age 40.

People who are overweight are at higher risk for developing gout, but if you have gout do not lose weight too quickly! Slow, gradual weight loss is best. People with gout should stay well hydrated and avoid soft drinks and alcohol (no more than 1 alcoholic beverage per day at most). People with gout should also avoid eating foods high in purines, which are compounds that break down into uric acid. Foods high in purines include liver, shrimp, anchovies, bouillon, gravy, herring, mackerel, mussels, fish roe, sardines, scallops, organ meats, yeast, & nutritional yeast, among others. Beans, peas, mushrooms, spinach & cauliflower are also high in purines but may not increase gout risk. Red meat is significantly higher in purines than poultry, so poultry is a better choice of animal protein for someone with gout.

Insulin resistance is closely linked with gout, so choosing a diet to combat insulin resistance could also be important. This means reducing intake of refined carbs & sweets like cake, cookies, pastry, bread, pasta, white rice, etc. Focus instead on fresh veggies, lean protein, and good fats like avocado, olive oil, and walnuts. When eating carbs, stick to whole grains: spelt, whole wheat, quinoa, amaranth, millet, teff, & kamut.

About the ingredients

Cherries

Since at least the 1950's, cherries have been touted as a preventive for gout attacks. Drinking cherry juice or eating cherries can help reduce the pain and inflammation of gout. In fact, ingesting cherries can reduce serum CRP (C-reactive protein, an inflammatory marker).

Cherries and other purple or dark berries contain flavonoids called anthocyanins which act to inhibit an enzyme causing inflammation. The dose is thought to be around half a pound of cherries per day, or the equivalent amount of juice. Using cherries in a nutritional supplement is a convenient method of obtaining these high doses.

Pantothenic acid

Also called vitamin B5, this nutrient assists with the excretion of uric acid. B5 also plays a role in adrenal function. Since the adrenal glands mediate the stress response, excess stress can increase the need for vitamin B5. Coincidentally, stress often precedes attacks of gout. Pantothenic acid is also used to optimize cholesterol levels, by lowering LDL and total cholesterol and raising HDL (the "good" cholesterol).

Protease is an enzyme typically produced by the pancreas to help digest protein-based foods. Digestive enzymes like protease are not only useful for digestive function but they also are used to help reduce systemic inflammation.