Gout and Epsom Salt

While talking with some friends at a local support group I learned that Epsom Salt helped one of them with Gout. Since float spas contain a high concentration of Epsom salt they may provide therapeutic benefits for that as well. We

Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) has been used anecdotally as a remedy for gout, but its effectiveness is not well-established scientifically. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of gout.

People with gout can affect the course of the disease by following certain lifestyle guidelines. These include avoiding foods that are high in purines (such as liver, organ meats, shellfish, oily fish and high-fructose corn syrup), eliminating alcohol, limiting sugar intake, exercising (and losing weight, if necessary) and staying well hydrated.¹

Gout Diet

Changing one’s diet won’t cure gout, but it could lower the risk of recurring gout attacks and even slow any progression of joint and kidney damage.¹⁵ A gout diet is designed to reduce the amount of purines in your bloodstream, which ultimately get converted to uric acid. Certain foods may be triggers for a flare.

Foods that may help alleviate gout symptoms and support kidney function:

• Plant-based foods naturally high in purine levels such as spinach, asparagus, lentils, and peas
• Mediterranean diet for gout, which consists of many plant-based foods, may be enjoyed without increasing the risk of gout attacks.
• Moderate amounts of low-purine seafood especially salmon, and less so, crab, halibut,
• Eliminatory foods such as cabbage, lentils, beets, rice, buckwheat, quinoa

Foods to avoid if you have uncontrolled gout include:

• Red meat, especially beef, lamb, and pork
• Organ meats, including sweetbreads, liver, and kidney
• Shellfish and certain kinds of seafood, including shrimp, crab, and some types of fish (specifically tuna, anchovies, and sardines).
• Beer and distilled liquor
• Sugary foods and drinks, like cereals, baked goods, and candy, sodas, fast food
• Read More About Foods to Avoid and Gout Friendly Alternatives

NOTE: This article was not written by a medical professional and is not intended to substitute the guidance of a physician. These are facts and data collected from various presumed reputable medical sources.

Float Therapy

Potential Benefits: 

• Magnesium is a mineral that may help reduce inflammation, which is a key feature of gout. 
• Epsom salt soaks may provide relief from pain and swelling associated with gout attacks. 

Our Hot Tank urban hot spring may provide relief including: 

• Pain relief: Hot springs can block pain receptors, which can help with pain from ailments like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and joint pain. 
• Increased Blood flow: Heat can help relax muscles and increase blood flow to the affected area, which may provide temporary relief from pain associated with gout
• Immune system: Hot springs can have beneficial effects on the immune system. 
• Wound healing: Hot spring bathing can accelerate wound healing. 
• Dissolved solutes: Hot springs can contain dissolved solutes like sodium bicarbonate, chloride, and sulfur, which may have beneficial effects on arthritis symptoms.
• Can hot water dissolve gout crystals?
  • The key hypothesis is that these urate crystals dissolve on warming. Hence, by warming the joint concerned in hot water, and moving the joint around to encourage diffusion, the urate concentration is reduced and crystals no longer form, provided the treatment is continued.¹

Limitations: 

• There is limited evidence to support the use of Epsom salt for gout. 
• Epsom salt soaks may not provide sufficient magnesium absorption to have a significant impact on inflammation. 
• It is important to note that Epsom salt is not a substitute for conventional medical treatment for gout. 

Safety Considerations:

• Epsom salt is generally safe for most people. 
• However, it can cause skin irritation in some individuals. 
• If you have any underlying health conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before using Epsom salt.