Cherry juice may be a natural remedy for gout symptoms, likely due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. More research is needed to validate its efficacy, and some caution is advised.
Medically reviewed by Adrienne Seitz, M.S., R.D., LDN, on May 3, 2023
Gout is a painful form of arthritis. It’s associated with crystals in the joints that result from high levels of uric acid in the blood.
While medical treatments are available to manage gout — including urate-lowering therapy (ULT) and anti-inflammatory drugs — some people may be interested in complementing the efforts with natural remedies like cherry juice.
This article will discuss the evidence around the potential health benefits of cherry juice for managing gout.
Cherry juice for gout: What the research says
Tatjana Zlatkovic/Stocksy United
Some evidence suggests that cherry juice or cherry extract may improve gout symptoms.
Literature reviews from 2017 and 2018 indicate that cherries contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds like vitamin C and polyphenols. As gout is an inflammatory condition, these compounds in cherries may have an effect on its symptoms.
A 2019 review also suggested that cherry fruits and products have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but they may also help lower uric acid levels in the blood and slow down bone erosion.
Similarly, a 2019 systematic review that included six studies indicated that people with gout who regularly consume cherry juice or extract experience fewer flare-ups than those who do not. Research also indicates that drinking tart cherry juice may reduce blood uric acid.
More research on people living with gout is needed to validate the efficacy of cherry juice for gout symptom management.
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Tart juice may be the most effective for people living with gout. Tart cherries contain more anthocyanins than sweet cherries. This means they may offer more potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, although more research is needed.
Unsweetened cherry juice may also be a better option than sweetened one since consumption of added sugars has been associated with higher levels of inflammation.
Eating tart cherries may also be an option if you prefer not to drink fruit juice or extract.
Before adding cherry juice to your routine, it is highly advisable that you talk with your healthcare professional to rule out possible interactions with medications.
How much cherry juice is recommended for gout?
Existing research on cherry juice dosage for gout is limited.
The studies on the topic have used different amounts and types of cherry juice and other cherry products like extracts or dried berries.
If you are interested in trying cherry juice or other cherry products for gout, you may want to discuss the amounts with your healthcare team and refer to the serving size on the packaging for guidance.
What to keep in mind
While cherry juice may improve gout symptoms in some people, it contains natural sugars. Some brands may also contain added sugars.
For instance, an 8-ounce (236-mL) serving of branded cherry juice can contain around 25 grams of sugar.
If you have diabetes, need to watch your sugar intake, or want to avoid added sugar’s potential inflammatory properties, consider discussing cherry juice with your healthcare professional before adding it to your routine.
Like other fruit juices, cherry juice may damage your teeth’s enamel or contribute to cavities. Rinsing your mouth with water and waiting 20 to 30 minutes before brushing your teeth could prevent that. Brushing them right after drinking the juice may do more damage.
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In addition to cherries and cherry juice for gout, incorporating other habits into your routine may help you manage symptoms.
Limit purine-rich foods: Purines are substances found in some foods that can increase uric acid levels in the blood. Examples of high purine foods include organ meats, shellfish, red meat, and certain types of fish like anchovies and sardines.
Eat more low fat dairy: Low fat dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt may help reduce the chance of gout flare-ups. These foods may help lower uric acid levels in the blood.
Choose plant-based proteins: Plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu are lower in purines than animal-based proteins.
Maintain your recommended weight: Managing weight through a nutrient-dense diet and frequent physical activity may help you manage your symptoms. Discuss the recommended weight range for your age, height, and overall health with your healthcare professional.
These tips may not work in the same way for everyone. A 2021 study suggests more research on gout and lifestyle habits is needed.
Following your medical treatment for gout is also recommended. This may include taking medications like:
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Summary
Cherry juice may offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties for people with gout. It could also reduce uric acid levels in the blood and minimize flare-up frequency in some people. More research is needed to validate the efficacy of cherries for gout symptoms.
