Gout and diabetes are seen a metabolic disorders which often may be inherited from your parents. Even if they are not genetically passed on you probably share similar lifestyle and eating habits as your parents who may already have one or both conditions thus further increasing your risk of development.
Additionally, both conditions are characterized by poor circulation, in particular poor circulation to the limbs. Not only do both diseases lead to a poor quality of life but they can come with a slew of health complications as well as a risk of death.
Gout linked to increases diabetes risk
The researchers examined a database which included nearly 7.5 million health records. For each of the 35,339 cases of gout researchers analyzed they were compared with up to five people without gout for a total of 137,056 control patients.
Gout cases typically occurred more in men with an average age of 62 and in women the average age was 67. Those diagnosed with gout tended to drink more alcohol, visit a doctor frequently, had additional health problems and took steroids or diuretics compared to those without gout.
Although men generally had more risk factors for diabetes, women had higher rates of diabetes if they had gout. In fact women were 71 percent more likely to develop diabetes if they had gout compared to men – only 22 percent.
The researchers suggest ongoing inflammation caused by gout could be the reason behind the increase risk of type 2 diabetes along with other risk factors which both gout and diabetes share. In order to reduce the risk of diabetes, especially among those with gout, changes to lifestyle habits should begin early on to avoid complications. Lifestyle changes, too, can also help better manage gout symptoms.
Previous study shows high uric acid levels can increase risk of diabetes
To achieve their findings researchers examined 2,000 medical records of men with gout – none of the men had diabetes or kidney disease at the time. Over the course of a three year period, nine percent of men with gout with uncontrolled uric acid levels developed diabetes. This was compared with six percent of gout patients who had uric acid levels under control.
After accounting for other diabetes risk factors the researchers found there was a 19 percent higher risk of developing diabetes in gout patients with uncontrolled uric acid levels compared to those who had levels under control.
Steps to prevent gout and diabetes
As mentioned gout and diabetes share many common risk factors and so they can easily be prevent through natural means and lifestyle changes. Here are some changes you can make in order to better prevent gout and diabetes simultaneously.
- Lose weight – both gout and diabetes share being overweight or obese as a risk factor
- Exercise regularly – not only will exercise help control weight but it can improve heart health and overall health to further reduce your risk of gout and diabetes
- Minimize alcohol consumption or eliminate it completely – there has been research which suggests heavy beer consumption is linked with an increased risk of gout. Although the association has not been seen with wine, it’s still important to keep alcohol consumption to a minimal and in moderation
- Avoid sugar-sweetened beverages
- Go on a gout diet – reduce intake of foods which are high in purines which can turn into uric acid. This consists of red meat, organ meats and many forms of seafood. If you’re unsure what foods contain purines, speak with your doctor
- Consume more dairy – research has shown that consuming low-fat dairy product it may help reduce the risk of gout and diabetes
By following these prevention tips you can reduce your risk of developing gout and diabetes. As mentioned both diseases can contribute to health complications and so it is wise to simply prevent both of them in order to preserve your health.
Related Reading
Sleep apnea may increase gout risk due to hyperuricemia: Study
Sleep apnea has been found to increase gout risk due to hyperuricemia, according to new research. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes the individual to wake up out of breath, and gout is a form of arthritis, which can be triggered by consuming foods high in purines. Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have now found that sleep apnea should not be ignored as a possible risk factor for gout. Continue reading…
Gout risk higher with purine-rich foods in diet raising uric acid levels
Gout risk is higher with purine-rich foods as it increases uric acid levels. Purines are a chemical compound found in some foods. Gout is a condition that affects joints and the musculoskeletal system. It is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by an excess of uric acid. Uric acid is the product of metabolic processes. When purines are metabolized they create uric acid, so a diet rich in purines can create an excess amount of uric acid and contribute to gout. Continue reading…
Sources:
http://goutandyou.com/gout-and-diabetes/
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2014-10/bmj-glt093014.php
http://www.webmd.com/arthritis/news/20111111/high-uric-acid-linked-to-both-gout-and-diabetes
http://www.webmd.com/arthritis/features/gout-and-diabetes