Role of Vitamin C in the Prevention of Gout
Gout is characterized by abrupt episodes of pain, stiffness, and swelling of a joint. This often involves the big toe and pain is recurrent unless gout is treated.
When uric acid level in the blood is too high, it can form into hard crystals. Uric acid is a waste product from a variety of foods that we eat, most especially protein and purine rich food. Uric acid is normally excreted out in the urine. But if there is excess uric acid or inadequate excretion of uric acid, then crystals can form in the joints and cause painful gout.
NSAIDs or nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs such as naproxen are the most common treatments for acute gout attacks. Corticosteroids such as prednisone are either taken orally or injected into the painful joint. Colchicine, allopurinol, and probenecid are other medications. However, as with all drug based treatments, these can have adverse effects.
In a prospective study done on the relationship of vitamin C and gout in men, it has been shown that higher vitamin C intake significantly reduced blood uric acid levels. Between 1986 through 2006, Hyon K. Choi and colleagues of the University of British Columbia, Vancouver and Boston University School of Medicine analyzed the relationship of Vitamin C intake and gout. The results revealed that men with higher Vitamin C intake had a consistently lower risk of developing gout than others. The results suggest that taking vitamin C supplements may be a safe and effective way in managing gout.
Vitamin C is used by the body to make collagen, which is part of cartilage. Cartilage is destroyed in conditions like osteoarthritis and other factors like free radicals in the body. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that limits damage due to free radicals. Evidence shows that people who consume high doses of vitamin C are less likely to be diagnosed with arthritis and degeneration of cartilage.
However, although vitamin C supplements of up to 1000 mg per day is a safe way to reduce gout attacks and provide protection, this is not enough. Individuals with gout still need to take the prescribed medicines as instructed. Other preventive measures are keeping an ideal weight, having a low purine and low protein diet, and reducing or stopping intake of alcohol.
A physician formulated gout supplement such as GouTrol contains vitamin C and a proprietary blend of wild cherry, alfalfa, apple cider vinegar, and garlic to sooth the symptoms of gout. For more information, visit www.drlamlabs.com
Lam Labs, LLC produces quality natural products that will aid your quest for a healthy lifestyle.
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