Bromelain usually don’t come to mind as a way to treat gout naturally, but it is very effective. It is a great tool you can use to help you ease painful attacks. It can even assist in avoiding future attacks. Here is why bromelain is well suited to helping you treat gout.
Pineapples are the fruit most known for containing bromelain. This enzyme decreases inflammation. Inflammation is the main reason for gout pain. The inflammation occurs when uric acid crystallizes in the joints causing irritation and swelling.
Pineapples in and of themselves will not get rid of gout pain, but they will help. This is simply because there is not enough bromelain in the pineapples to reduce swelling. Many natural food stores carry bromelain as a dietary supplement. Gout is just one of the ways that this supplement is used. It is also taken for digestive problems and other types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Physicians, especially naturopathic doctors have prescribed bromelain for the purpose of reducing blood clots. However, you should ask your physician before taking this supplement or any supplement prior to using it as a therapy.
You will definitely want to inform your physician before taking, especially if you are taking other prescription medications. It is always appropriate to have a physician be able to monitor supplements and medicines you are taking to avoid dangerous interactions.
One problem with bromelain can be if you use too much of it. Medium quantities have not been found to have any negative side effects, however higher doses can create tachycardia, a fast heart rate. It can be the cause for nausea. Loose stools can also be a problem at higher doses.
If your doctor has prescribed aspirin and Warfarin for you, you should not take bromelain in the supplemental form. Since Warfarin and aspirin are blood thinners this could potentially cause a bleeding problem if you add bromelain to your plan. Pineapples should be safe, though and you can still get at least a little help for your gout symptoms.
Bromelain should definitely be considered for your natural gout treatments plan, especially if you are having an acute gout attack. There is nothing better than being able to reduce the painful swelling that is causing you grief.
