Short Answer: Epsom salt is bad for gout. Because it has sulfate and it can increase uric acid production and worsen gout symptoms.
Gout is a condition that affects your joints, especially the big toe.
In gout, your body produces too much uric acid, which forms sharp crystals in your joints.
This causes inflammation, pain, and swelling.
This can lead to various health problems, such as kidney stones, joint damage, and recurrent gout attacks.
One of the key factors in managing gout is diet.
What you consume can affect your uric acid levels, which can impact your gout symptoms and overall health.
To effectively manage gout, you should consume low-purine foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products and avoid high-purine foods like red meat, organ meat, seafood, alcohol, and sugary drinks.
Now, Epsom salt is a mineral compound that contains magnesium and sulfate.
People usually dissolve it in warm water and soak their feet or other body parts in it.
Epsom salt is bad for gout because it contains sulfate, which can increase uric acid production.
It also has no effect on lowering uric acid levels or preventing gout attacks.
There is no evidence that magnesium or sulfates can be absorbed through the skin.
One cup of Epsom salt can give you about 10 grams of sulfate, which is more than the recommended daily intake of 500 milligrams.
Sulfate can stimulate the enzyme that converts purines into uric acid.
This can worsen gout by increasing the amount of uric acid in your blood and joints.
Furthermore, Epsom salt is a laxative and laxatives are bad for gout.
Because, they can cause dehydration, which can reduce the kidney’s ability to excrete uric acid and increase the risk of kidney stones.
That’s why I suggest you limit your Epsom salt intake to avoid possible complications.
Stick to no more than one or two teaspoons per day to minimize the risk of dehydration, diarrhea, and increased uric acid levels.
Also, you shouldn’t use Epsom salt if you have kidney disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure to prevent adverse effects.
Because, it can interfere with your medications, worsen your conditions, and cause electrolyte imbalance.
You can buy Epsom salt online or offline.
To buy it online, there are many brands and marketplaces to choose from.
But as a nutritionist, I recommend Pure Epsom Salt from Amazon.
Because, it is 100% natural, free of additives, and certified by the USP.
Finally, remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and essential medical care is key to managing gout effectively.
I always recommend my gout patients to follow a gout-friendly diet to improve their overall well-being and enjoy a longer and healthier life.