Vitamin C for Gout

Hailed as a wonder drug by many, Vitamin C also known as ascorbic acid has been found to be beneficial for gout. Vitamin C lowers uric acid by helping in its excretion by the kidneys. Since 90% of gout cases result from poor excretion of uric acid by the kidneys, any drug or natural remedy that positively affects this process may indeed have significant effect on gout management.

The results of US study published in 2005 revealed that aside from taking Vitamin C through natural diet (example through fruits and vegetables), taking Vitamin C supplement of at least 500mg daily causes a significant decrease in the blood uric acid levels.  The blood uric acid level decreased by 10% with 500mg daily intake of Vitamin C which is considered significant.

Vitamin C for Gout – Caution

In another US study conducted over 20 years for over 40,000 men; daily intake of 1,500 mg Vitamin C supplement reduced the occurrence of gout by 45%. Taking this much Vitamin C may however cause serious side effects. Being a natural uricosuric, Vitamin C helps the kidneys excrete uric acid and may cause its accumulation that could result to higher risk of developing kidney stones.

In addition, Vitamin C being an acid like uric acid may cause the urine to turn more acidic increasing the tendency for uric acid kidney stone formation. Uric acid tends to crystallize in acidic conditions. For these reasons, gout patients are advised to monitor the pH of their urine when taking Vitamin C supplements and making sure it does not become too acidic.

Experts say that taking daily Vitamin C supplements of 1,000 mg or less will not result in other adverse side effects such as diarrhea which is observed to occur with doses higher than 1,000 mg.

Gout patients can try the following well-rated, widely used Vitamin C supplements available right here:

•  Vitamin C 1000mg Two Stage Timed Release – 250 – Capsule
•  Nature Made Vitamin C, 500 mg, Tablets, 500 ct.
•  Nature’s Bounty Vitamin C, 500mg, Time Release, 100 Capsules (Pack of 2)
•  Country Life Time Release Buffered Vitamin C 1000 Mg Plus 150 Mg of Bioflavonoids, 250-Count
•  Nature Made 500mg Vitamin C with Rose Hips Caplets – 550 Count

Vitamin C does not only lower uric acid, it is also found to have anti-inflammatory properties. It is also widely touted us an immune system booster. Experts advise that Vitamin C supplement intake should in no way substitute healthy diet and lifestyle. They advise further to consult with your doctor on the correct dosage of Vitamin C to prevent adverse side effects.