Fruit juice may trigger bouts of "kings disease"

Arthritis can be divided into several forms, and one of the most painful is gout. This condition caused by high levels of uric acid occurs when sharp, needle-like crystals appear in the joints.

According to some studies, unsweetened fruit juice may lead to painful bouts that last for days or weeks.

Some research has linked fruit juices from apples and oranges to an increased risk of these attacks.

In one study, men who drank two or more glasses of fruit juice per day were more likely to develop gout (the disease of kings), compared to those who drank less than one cup per day.

This doesn't mean you should eliminate both fruits from your diet, Peter Simkin, professor of medicine emeritus in the division of rheumatology at the University of Washington College of Medicine told the Arthritis Foundation.

The most important thing, the professor explained, is to manage the amount of fruit you eat.

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The British Arthritis Foundation adds: "It's especially important to watch your portion size when it comes to fruit juice." This is because fruit juice contains a more concentrated amount of fructose, which could cause complications for anyone at risk of developing gout.

Gout is more common among men over the age of 30, mainly because they have lower levels of uric acid than women.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk of developing the disease increases dramatically with increased alcohol intake.

"A diet rich in purines, which the body breaks down into uric acids," adds Healthy Body, another risk factor. Similarly, an individual may be at increased risk if they are overweight or are in menopause.

Although the condition can be very painful and debilitating, treatments are available to help relieve symptoms and prevent further attacks.

Gout occurs when uric acid builds up and forms crystals in the joints, triggering a painful inflammatory response.

More specifically, crystals form where there is a buildup of calcium in the cartilage, and a painful attack of gout occurs when these crystals fall off in the joint. The result is a sudden bout of pain in one or more joints, usually in the big toe, that may feel very hot and sore.

Swelling may also be evident around the affected joint, and he may be unable to bear anything that touches him, according to NHS Inform.

Source: Express