Gout is a type of Arthritis that occurs when there is too much uric acid in the body. When the uric acid builds up in the joints, usually in the toes, fingers, or knees, it causes a gout attack. These attacks come on suddenly and cause severe pain, swelling, redness, and heat in the joint. Many times the big toe is involved and when that happens, the gout may be referred to as podagra.Natural Treatments for GoutThe standard drug treatments for gout include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, colchicine, or steroids. Many people search for treatments that do not contain harmful chemicals or that have side effects.One effective treatment for gout is vitamin C because is lowers the uric acid levels in your body. This can be added to your diet with citrus fruits or juices as long as the juice does not have any added sugar. Studies have been performed with vitamin C supplements and there was a reduction in the uric acid levels.Another natural treatment for gout is cherries or cherry juice without added sugar. The recommended amount is between one half a cup and one cup of cherries daily. One reason cherries may help gout is they help reduce inflammation and thereby reduce pain.A Gout DietMany people with gout try and identify the triggers of their attacks. This is difficult to do because an attack can happen when old uric crystals dissolve and that may have nothing to do with what you ate that day. A correlation has been shown between high uric acid levels and the high intake of protein and iron. There is also a connection between lower levels of uric acid and the intake of dairy products.The bottom line is that everyone's body is different. One gout sufferer may get relief by eating less seafood, and another may do the same thing and there is no change. The best approach to a gout diet is a moderate one. Cut back on meat and protein and add cherries and dairy products. Also add to your diet extra vitamin C in foods or supplements.