A reader has been taking 200 mg of allopurinol daily for the past two years to avoid gout attacks.  However, she has recently developed cataracts, possibly caused by the allopurinol binding to the lens of the eye.  She is now keen to find an alternative way to control gout.  What do readers suggest?

A traditional remedy for gout is consuming one-half to one pound of fresh sweet cherries a day – and one fellow gout sufferer swears it works.  Alternatively, you could try CherryActive Montmorency Cherry Juice Concentrate, which apparently works just as well.  “One glass of diluted concentrate each day and I have been gout free for many months,” says Clive.  See www.cherryactive.co.uk for more information.

Another reader says her husband manages acute gout by following a strict organic diet free of all food additives.  “It’s particularly important to avoid monosodium glutamate (MSG) and hydrolysed vegetable protein,” she advises.  In addition, cut out foods that are high in purines – chemicals that the body converts to uric acid.  These foods include organ meats, shellfish, peas, beans, anchovies, sardines, asparagus and mushrooms.  A diet that is heavy in these foods can lead to uric-acid build up in the blood which, in turn, leads to the formation of crystals in a joint, thereby causing pain and inflammation.  For recipe ideas and tips on following a low purine diet see the Gout Haters Cookbook by Jodi Schneiter (Reachment Publications, July 2004).

Other readers suggest drinking plenty of water (six to eight glasses a day), as this will dilute uric acid levels in the blood.  Taking pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) may also help, according to Collette. 

Finally, Peter recommends a product called Gout Cure, a natural herbal remedy.  “I started using Gout Cure about three years ago and have not had a gout attack since.”  To find out more visit www.goutcure.com.