Gout is a highly painful form of arthritis that occurs when uric acid, a waste product, forms crystals in the joints. Gout usually affects one joint in the body, commonly the big toe, and is characterized by swelling, inflammation and extreme tenderness in the affected joint. Gout is usually treated with anti-inflammatory medicines to help reduce pain and swelling. Colchicine may prevent future gout attacks although it has severe side effects. Vitamin C may also help to prevent gout, but discuss any supplements with your doctor.
Properties and Uses
Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in several biochemical and physiological functions, including protein metabolism, collagen production and wound healing. It also helps maintain immune function. The Office of Dietary Supplements notes that it might also play a role in the treatment of several medical conditions including cardiovascular disease, the common cold, cancer and cataracts. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a high vitamin C intake is associated with a lower risk of developing gout.
Vitamin C Benefits for Gout
The results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial, published in the June 2005 issue of "Arthritis and Rheumatism," notes that taking 500 mg of vitamin C daily for two months helps to reduce uric acid levels. According to the authors, this may in turn help to prevent conditions associated with elevated uric acid levels, such as gout.
Clinical Trials
The results of the clinical study in 46,994 men, published in the March 2009 issue of the "Archives of Internal Medicine," found that a high vitamin C intake is independently associated with a lower risk of gout. The authors conclude, therefore, that supplemental vitamin C intake may help to prevent this condition. However, an analysis of data from 13 clinical trials, published in the June 2011 issue of "Arthritis Care & Research," notes that further trials are need to determine whether vitamin C supplementation can reduce or prevent the incidence of gout.
Administration and Safety Considerations
Vitamin C is in a variety of foods including kiwifruit, green peppers, citrus fruits and strawberries. It is also available as a dietary supplement in capsules or tablets. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that 1,000 mg daily is sometimes used help prevent gout, but check with your doctor that this dose is suitable for you before using. Vitamin C supplements may cause mild side effects including abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Do not take supplemental vitamin C if you are undergoing treatment for cancer as it may make chemotherapy and radiation treatments less effective.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gout
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin C
- "Arthritis and Rheumatism"; The Effects of Vitamin C Supplementation on Serum Concentrations of Uric Acid: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial; H.Y. Huang, et al.; June 2005
- "Archives of Internal Medicine"; Vitamin C Intake and the Risk of Gout in Men: A Prospective Study; H.K. Choi, et al.; March 2009
- "Arthritis Care & Research"; Effect of Oral Vitamin C Supplementation on Serum Uric Acid: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials; S.P. Juraschek, et al.; June 2011
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