Arthritis is an ailment that happens to most senior citizens, over the age of 65. But it does not necessarily mean that young people do not have them. Surprisingly, there are an increasing number of people who are in their mid 20s who are already having arthritis. Doctors say that it is primarily caused by FOOD or what we can call arthritis FOOD. These are FOOD that can cause arthritis. These are usually dairy products, citrus fruits, tomatoes, eggplants and others.

Perhaps the most painful of all rheumatic conditions, gout is a condition that affects the joints in the body. Finding the best natural form of gout cure is a combination of proper medication and lifestyle changes which includes avoiding purine-rich FOOD. Healthy lifestyle is, thus, a must.

Gout afflicts more or less 840 out of 100,000 persons and it accounts for 5 percent of all arthritis cases. Because of the sizeable number experiencing the pain, many have tried searching for ways to avoid having a gout attack.

For clarification, FOODs high in uric acid really means FOODs that have high levels of purines. Purines are chemical compounds in our bodies and in our FOODs that, simply put, help to provide us with protein and energy. When they breakdown as a result of this process, uric acid is a byproduct.

Now, excess uric acid is normally flushed from our system by our kidneys via urine. Sometimes though, our kidneys, for various reasons fail to work effectively. The excess acid retained can then crystallize in our joints, causing the pain and symptoms of gout. In other words there is a link between high purine levels and high uric acid.

1. Lose weight to reduce the pressure and strain on muscles and joints.

2. Start doing Yoga or any form of gentle exercise. Moving arthritic joints is painful but you can build strength and mobility with proper movement. It would be worth going to a Yoga teacher to learn the correct movements.

3. Swim in a heated pool. The warm water will help to relax while you exercise.

4. Massage Eucalyptus oil or goanna oil into painful joints. The massage relaxes tense muscles and the heat penetrates to ease pain. Apply a muscle treatment like eucalyptus or goanna oil at night. In the morning, you will not be as stiff.