Gout, a form of arthritis, is a highly painful condition that usually affects the big toe and is most common in men. Caused by an accumulation of uric acid, gout is characterized by severe pain and tenderness, inflammation and swelling. If you suffer from gout, you're in good company: King Henry VIII of England famously suffered from this condition which is often associated with "good living." Gout is usually treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, medicines that reduce pain or inflammation. Alternatively, your doctor may prescribe colchicine, a drug that prevents uric acid build up. Vitamin C might help prevent gout, although conclusive evidence proving this is lacking. Talk to your doctor before taking any new vitamin supplements.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an antioxidant that helps fight free radical damage. It is also involved in several biological processes such as protein metabolism and brain chemical synthesis. It may also play a role in the treatment of numerous conditions from the common cold to cancer. The University of Maryland Medical Center adds that a high intake of vitamin C has been linked to a lower incidence of gout.
Administration
Various foods contain vitamin C, including potatoes, citrus fruits, red and green peppers, broccoli, spinach and cantaloupe. However, you're unlikely to get the amount of vitamin C required to help prevent gout from food alone; according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, 500 mg to 1,000 mg daily has been used to prevent gout. Vitamin C is available in capsules or tablets that may be swallowed or dissolved in water. Talk to your doctor before taking high doses.
Efficacy
Studies evaluating vitamin C's efficacy as a preventative to gout are limited. However, the results of a study in 1,387 men, published in "The Journal of Rheumatology" show that vitamin C intake is inversely associated with serum uric acid concentrations, leading the authors to conclude that vitamin C may play a role in the prevention of gout.
Other Considerations
Relying on vitamin C supplements alone may not be the best way of preventing gout. Although the University of Maryland Medical Center acknowledges that gout often affects people with a family history of the condition, it adds that excessive intake of purine-rich foods and alcohol may contribute to the development of gout, therefore cutting out alcohol and foods such as sweetbreads and shellfish might help to keep symptoms at bay. Also try to reduce your stress levels, which could also contribute to the development of gout.
