The concept of cherries as a natural cure for gout has been around for decades. In fact, the scientific research on cherries and gout actually dates back all the way to 1950 when a preliminary study found that daily cherry consumption helped to relieve gout attacks in a group of chronic gout sufferers. Dr. Ludwig W. Blau, a researcher in Texas who led the study, noted participants had lower levels of uric acid in their blood after eating cherries — gout, of course, is a condition triggered when excessive levels of uric acid build up in the blood.
. . .
“…By the next day, I could feel the gout attack backing off somewhat, and by the following day, it was gone…”
Read: Bert’s Full Thoughts on Cherries and Gout Relief
. . .
Since then, extensive research has confirmed this link between cherries and gout, including a 2003 study conducted by the USDA’s Human Nutrition Research Center at the University of California, Davis. This time, researchers found that a group of women who consumed two servings (280 grams) of cherries after an overnight fast showed a 15 percent reduction in uric acid levels — and fewer markers for inflammation. This led UC Davis researchers to remark that “…compounds in cherries may inhibit inflammatory pathways” associated with gout.
The same study also found that consumption of cherry extract removed gout causing uric acid from the blood in as little as 5 hours. Researchers substituted other fruits, including grapes, strawberries and kiwi, but only cherry was able to produce this utterly amazing effect.
And that’s not all! A recent 2012 study from Boston University, that included 633 individuals with gout, found that intake of one serving — 10-12 cherries per day — over a 2-day period was associated with a 35% lower risk of gout attacks! These are some pretty fantastic odds for simply eating a few handfuls of fruit.
The Basics: Cherries Have What Your Gout Needs
Bert’s Thoughts: Eating Cherries for Gout Relief
The Details: Cherries and Gout