Folic Acid for Gout

The evidence of folic acid as being beneficial to gout via medical academic studies is not clear. In a study conducted in the 1980’s on laboratory animals, folic acid was shown to significantly inhibit xanthine oxidase, the enzyme needed to convert purine into uric acid. In studies conducted in humans, there is no clear evidence the folic acid does lower uric acid. But there are a lot of testimonial evidences by gout patients who swear to the effectiveness of folic acid in lowering their uric acid and alleviating the pain during an acute gout attack. 

This kind of thinking among gout patients is further validated by notable doctors touting folic acid as a natural remedy for gout. The renowned Dr. Atkins, author of the Atkins diet, in his book Vita Nutrient Solution, included folic acid as a vitamin remedy for gout. However, there were no clinical studies cited on gout and folic acid. Dr. Joseph Pizorno ND of Bastyr University in Seattle also cited folic acid in his book on natural remedies as a vitamin that prevents future gout attacks.

Even with the lack of evidence folic acid in itself is a good vitamin and is worthwhile considering as a complement to gout treatment. Folic acid in fact is very important in bodily functions even from conception (as fetus in the womb) and throughout maturity.

Folic acid is also known as Vitamin B9. It is very important in assisting rapid cell division and growth. Pregnant women and those planning to get pregnant and children are given folic acid as supplements for this reason. Children and adults all need folic acid for the production of  healthy blood cells and prevention of anemia.

Folic Acid for Gout – Dosage

Recommended dosage of folic acid daily as a supplement is 40 mg but gout patients have reported beneficial effects at dosages of as low as 10mg or as high as 70mg. It certainly does not work for every gout patients as other gout patients report no significant effect even with the dosages mentioned.

The most important thing to do is to discuss taking folic acid with your doctor on a trial run if you are keen on trying it out as a natural gout supplement. The doctor can advise you on the optimal dosage and possible adverse side effects which includes folic acid’s tendency to mask symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Here are some highly rated folic acid supplements that you might want to consider adding to your diet:

•  Nature Made Folic Acid 600 mcg with DHA – 300 Softgels
•  Country Life Folic Acid 800mcg 250 Tablets
•  Jarrow Formulas Folic Acid, 800mcg, 100 Capsules (Pack of 4)
•  Twin Lab Folic Acid 800 mcg

The benefits of folic acid in cell division and production of healthy blood cells makes it very important to consider as a regular food supplement.