Gout is a specific type of arthritis that can be painful and disruptive. Here, we take a look at gout, and what causes it. Then we discuss a few different supplements which can help prevent and/or treat gout.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis that can affect almost anyone. Like other forms of arthritis, gout results from inflammation, and manifests as pain and swelling in the joints. Gout is unique in that when it first occurs, it is usually emerges as an intense nighttime pain in the toes. It is most common in the big toe, but can occur in other joints. It is often severe but subsides in a matter of hours, with lingering pain for a few days or weeks.
Gout flare-ups occur when uric acid builds up in the joints to the point where crystalline urate forms and attacks them, producing pain. This can be triggered by consuming certain foods including meat, seafood, alcohol, as well as certain medications and certain illnesses. Family history also plays a part. Gout symptoms will disappear after a flare-up, but they can recur.
Treatment is available for gout when necessary. Doctors might prescribe medication to treat the symptoms, to reduce inflammation, to reduce uric acid build-up, or all of the above. Certain lifestyle changes can reduce gout, including weight loss, limiting intake of alcohol and triggering foods, and consuming vegetables and low-fat foods that lower urate levels.
Supplements for Gout
Some vitamins and nutrients, taken in supplement form, can help mitigate gout. Most of these do so by reducing the bodily conditions that cause gout flare-ups. Keep in mind that while these can help, they are not a replacement for medical treatment when deemed necessary.
Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, can help reduce the risk of excessive uric acid build-up in the body. This is especially true in men. By reducing uric acid build-up, folic acid could help reduce the risk of gout flare-ups.
Vitamin D has been studied and shown to help decrease uric acid levels. Taking a vitamin D supplement can help this, and thereby potentially mitigate gout.
M.S.M., short for methylsulfonylmethane, is an organic sulfur compound which contributes to the formation of connective joint tissue. Supplementing with M.S.M. can help reduce the inflammation that causes gout. The recommended dose is 3,000mg per day.
Vitamin C supplementation provides a long list of potential benefits to the body, including the ability to help prevent recurrence of gout. Vitamin C has been shown to help reduce uric acid build-up in those who’ve already experienced gout, and to directly reduce the risk of gout flare-ups.
Magnesium deficiency has been linked to gout. At least one study has shown that having adequate magnesium levels correlates with low uric acid levels. Some say that magnesium deficiency is also linked to increased inflammation.
If you or a family member have experienced gout, or think you could be at risk of it due to your family history, then consider taking one or more of these supplements. It’s recommended, though, that you consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplement for the first time.