Choosing The Right Supplement For Gout

Nowadays we’re faced with more choices than ever before. When it comes to supplements for your gout, it can be a daunting task that can sometimes leave you broke, disappointed or feeling worse than you did before. There’s a numerous amount of dietary supplements out there, some with while claims – others with less than stellar results. But with so many options, how do you make the quick, yet educated decision on what supplement will work best for you? Well when it comes to picking a dietary supplement that will help treat, reduce, prevent and help you overcome your gout, here’s a few things you should know.

First Things First

Here are three things that gout sufferers need to focus on, in order of importance:

1. Working hard and staying on track
2. Ensuring that you are following a program geared toward the ultimate goals of gout treatment and prevention
3. Modifying your diet to ensure you receive an appropriate nutrient balance that does not contribute to rising uric acid levels, and using supplements to help you attain relief and recovery naturally

What is Necessary for Gout Treatment and Prevention?

Understanding the underlying problem and cause of gout can help you make a more informed decision on designing your treatment program. Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the inflammation of joints after uric acid has reached higher-than-normal levels in the blood. As part of your treatment and prevention plan for gout, there are two things you need to keep in mind:

• High Levels of Uric Acid Cause Gout – They Need to be Lowered and Maintained

Uric acid is a product of purines that have been metabolized from the body. Purines exist naturally in the body, but can also be introduced through certain foods and beverages you consume. Normally, the uric acid levels in the blood are stabilized or normal and are routinely filtered out by the kidneys and excreted to the urine. There are some instances however, when uric acid builds up in the blood, and the increased amount causes the acid to crystalize. The crystals then localize around the joints and articular tissue and cause an inflammatory response or gout.

The top priority that your doctor will address when it comes to gout treatment is lowering and maintain your uric acid levels. This can be achieved through diet, lifestyle changes or medications. However, certain complications with the body can make lowering your uric acid levels difficult and you might have to find complementary components to help you.

• Healthy Liver and Kidneys are Essential for Gout Prevention

The kidneys play an important role in moderating the uric acid levels in your body as it is in charge of filtering the uric acid out of your blood and directing it to excrete through your urine. It’s common to find poor functioning liver and kidneys in gout patients due to the stress the high levels of uric acid puts on the organs. When the kidneys do not operate properly, they are unable to perform their job efficiently, leaving the uric acid to further accumulate in your body.

As part of your treatment, your doctor will want to monitor your liver and kidney to ensure that you are not undergoing liver or kidney damage due to your gout. This is why it’s important to keep your organs healthy during this process.

What are Dietary Supplements?

Dietary Supplements are defined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 11994 as “a product taken by mouth that contains a “dietary ingredient” intended to supplement the diet.” Dietary ingredients can be one or any combination of the following substances:

• A vitamin,
• A mineral,
• An herb or other botanical,
• An amino acid,
• A dietary substance for use by man to supplement the diet by increase the total dietary intake (e.g., enzymes or tissues from organs or glands), or
• A concentrate, metabolite, constituent or extract

Dietary supplements are typically comprised of naturally occurring supplements, which makes them less likely to cause negative or debilitating side-effects in comparison to medications available for gout

Now that you know what dietary supplements are, how do you feed this information into your natural approach to ridding of gout?

What are the Most Effective Dietary Ingredients for Gout?

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a supplement. In general, they include:

• Does it fit my budget?
• Will it help me with my goals?
• Is the supplement safe and backed by scientific research?

When it comes to picking a supplement, the aforementioned should be at the forefront of your decision making process. It’s best to stick with supplements that have been supported by science, both in terms of safety and efficacy. Keeping that in might, below are the top herbal supplements that are most effective for gout.

Alpha-lipoic acid

Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that can be found in yeast, liver, kidney, spinach, broccoli and potatoes. Unfortunately, most of these sources are high in purines and effectively off your plate. This antioxidant is essential for the body because it prevents cell damage and helps to restore and maintain levels of vitamin E and vitamin C. Additionally, it is used by the body to help break down carbohydrates and makes energy for the organs in your body.

Yucca

Yucca is a tree whose root has been use historically for medicinal purposes. It contains chemicals that have been shown to display similar properties to those of anti-inflammatory drugs used to treat joint pain and arthritis¹.

Turmeric

You probably recognized turmeric as the main spice in Indian curry, but turmeric has a long history of not only a culinary ingredient, but as a medicinal one. The root of the turmeric plant has been found to contain chemicals that help decrease swelling and have properties similar to anti-inflammatory drugs.

Bromelain

Found in pineapple juice, bromelain is an enzyme that has been commonly used for medicine. It contains properties that through lab studies demonstrates anti-inflammatory applications.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is a plant whose above ground parts and seeds are commonly used for medicinal purposes. This plant contains properties that help protect the liver cells from toxic chemicals and also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Artichoke

Artichoke is a plant that is a relative of the Milk Thistle. Its leaf, stem and root are used to make extracts which contain potent concentrations of chemicals that have been historically used for medicinal purposes. Artichoke has been known to aid with digestion and can help to reduce nausea and spasms.

Ginger Root

A popular herb that has found its way into many natural home remedies, ginger root has many application as a spice and medicine and is usually used fresh, dried, powdered, as juice or as oil. Ginger has been shown to contain chemicals that may reduce inflammation.

Dandelion

Dandelion is an herb that medicinal properties are found in its above ground parts and root. It is used for many conditions and contains chemicals that increases urine production and can reduce the effects of inflammation.⁷

Burdock

A plant whose root is sometimes found in culinary applications, Burdock has also found a home in medicinal use thanks to chemicals found in its root, leaf and seed. The chemicals found in Burdock have been found effective for anti-inflammatory purposes.⁸

Quercetin

Quercetin is a flavonoid found in many plants and foods such as green tea, onions, apples, red wine, Ginkgo biloba and St. John’s wort. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Thyme

Thyme is an herb who flowers, leaves and oil are used for medicinal purposes. Thyme contains chemicals that help fight bacterial and fungal infections and also possess anti-inflammatory properties.

Celery

A common vegetable found in your kitchen, celery’s medicinal properties lie in its seeds and fruit the plant produces. It contains chemicals that have anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and anti-arthritic actions.¹⁰

Skullcap

The above part of the skullcap plant is commonly used for medicinal purposes. Particular chemicals in skullcap can prevent swelling, while others can induce sedation.

Passion Flower

Passionflower is a plant that is popular in use for its calming effects. The chemicals in passionflower can also help relieve inflammation and can also provide relief from muscle spasms.

Chamomile

The German Chamomile or Matricaria rectitua is an herb that is widely used for its medicinal properties. It contains chemicals that promote relaxation and reduce swelling. It reduces swelling by slowing down the production of chemicals responsible for the inflammatory response in the body.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is a vitamin that is found in certain foods such as beans, vegetables liver, eggs and meat. It is necessary for the proper function of fats, sugars and proteins in the body, as well as the proper growth and development of the many critical parts of the body.

Folic Acid

Folic acid is a form of vitamin B and is a synthetic form of this vitamin that has been added to many grocery items as required by federal law. Folic acid is essential for the proper development of the human body and heavily involved in the production of DNA and other bodily functions.

Taking a supplement or supplements that have these dietary ingredients will help you get the most out of these natural options for the relief and prevention of gout. Remember, the first place to start when getting on the road to recovery is by making necessary dietary and lifestyle changes. Supplements are meant to act as a complementary treatment to your current program to help your progress and heal faster.

Supplement We Recommend

There are many gout supplements out there, and we can't possibly use them all ourselves. So far the best one that we know of is Urix Acid. It has a lot of ingredients that we really do like. In fact, as long as you eat healthy and take Urix Acid, for me that was all I needed to get A LOT of relief from gout. Your results will of course vary.

Other things to Consider

When choosing a supplement, aside from cost and if it will be a helpful part of your treatment program, there are few other things to consider when picking a supplement that is right for you.

• Manufacturer & Facility Location

Try to select a supplement that has been manufactured in a FDA compliant facility that follows Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs). This ensures that you are getting a product from a location that has been inspected and approved by FDA. CGMP also ensures that the supplement has undergone numerous tests that include testing for accuracy, efficacy, and potency and free of any contamination.

• Vegetarian (Cellulose) vs. Gelatin Capsule

Vegetarian capsules are made from cellulose, whereas gelatin capsules are made from animal’s connective tissue. When it comes to gout, you should avoid gelatin capsules as they are made from organs and connective tissues of animals. Though in small amounts, gelatin capsules may contribute to uric acid levels. In an effort to be safe, than sorry, opt for vegetarian capsules. Another reason I do not opt for Gelatin Capsules is if the manufacturer is willing to be cheap on that, then where else did they go cheap on?

• Supplement Claims

Read the supplement label carefully and try to stay away from claims that sound disingenuous or misleading. Some products can also be vague and provide very little information. You also want to choose supplements whose labels can be clearly read, who have clear instructions and also have contact information on the bottle.

• Side-effects

Like all drugs, dietary supplements can also have side-effects, however they are often not as severe as prescribed medications. Medications for gout can have many worrisome side-effects, or might not even be a viable option for some individuals due to other health complications. If you due experience a negative reaction to dietary supplements, be sure to stop use immediately and contact your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the side-effects of using natural supplements?

Many supplements contain active ingredients that can have strong effects on the body. It is important to monitor your reaction to dietary supplements, some side-effects can include, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, breaking out in rashes or bowel movements (not a complete list). If you experience any negative side-effects to any natural supplements, stop use and contact your doctor immediately.

Is ash good supplement for gout?

Ash is an alkaline substance that can help lower the acidity of your body which can be significantly raised due to high uric acid levels.

Is coffee good supplement for gout?

A 2007 issue of Journal Arthritis & Rheumatism found that the consumption of decaf coffee helped to lower the risk of gout by almost 33%. In moderation, decaf coffee can help with preventing gout.

Is Folic acid supplement for gout?

Folic acid produces a byproduct that has demonstrated its ability to inhibit xanthine oxidase, the enzyme responsible for uric acid production. It is a recommended supplement since it is a natural product that functions similarly to other gout medications such as allopurinol and febuxostat.

Is vitamin c supplement for gout?

A Harvard clinic trial conducted found that men who consumed a moderate amount of vitamin C daily were shown to have lower levels of uric acid than their counterparts. It is theorized that vitamin C helps to make uric acid more soluble, this making it easier to pass through the kidneys./p>

Flavonoids good for gout?

Certain flavonoids have anti-inflammatory properties which can help in the short-term and long-term relief of gout.

Does alfalfa supplement for gout works?

Alfalfa contains chemicals that have been known to dissolve uric acid, allowing for easier kidney elimination. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory properties that can help provide relief from gout.

My naturopath told me to incorporate cherry supplement does it help?

Anthocyanin, an antioxidant pigment found in cherries and other red and purple fruits and vegetables have been shown to stabilize the free radical molecules that cause inflammation and cell and tissue damage. Additionally, anthocyanin has been found to have a positive effect on uric acid levels, helping to lower them to manageable levels. You can read more about cherries here

Best protein supplement for gout?

Proteins are primarily culprits in the production of uric acid and in general its recommended that you moderate and monitor you intake. If you desire to take protein supplements, it’s suggested to seek vegetarian sources such as pea protein, brown rice, or hemp are just a few options. Speak to your doctor about consuming protein supplements before you decide to move forward to discuss the pros and cons.

Is tart cherry supplement for gout?

Anthocyanin, an antioxidant pigment found in cherries and other red and purple fruits and vegetables have been shown to stabilize the free radical molecules that cause inflammation and cell and tissue damage. Additionally, anthocyanin has been found to have a positive effect on uric acid levels, helping to lower them to manageable levels.

Black cherry supplement good for gout?

Anthocyanin, an antioxidant pigment found in cherries and other red and purple fruits and vegetables have been shown to stabilize the free radical molecules that cause inflammation and cell and tissue damage. Additionally, anthocyanin has been found to have a positive effect on uric acid levels, helping to lower them to manageable levels.

Should I take calcium supplement?

While calcium help control or prevent gout attacks, it is a good dietary supplement to take based on dietary suggestions and guidelines. Calcium can help repair the joints that have been damaged due to gout attacks and protect from other bone related complications. You should however monitor your calcium intake as it can contribute to the formation of uric acid crystals.

Can iron supplement cause gout?

Iron has been shown to activate xanthine oxidase, an enzyme responsible for uric acid production. Due to it acting as a catalyst for the enzyme it’s recommended that you stay away from iron supplements if you currently suffer from gout.

Can protein supplement cause gout?

Proteins contain amino acids that when broken down can be turned into amino acids. Any protein supplement that is an animal byproduct should generally be avoided.

Is celery supplement good to incorporate?

Celery seed is known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic actions that can help with the relief and prevention of gout.

May I know if creatine supplement helps against gout?

Creatine has been known to contribute to the production of uric acid and in men especially has been known to increase uric acid level significantly.

Do fish oil supplements cause gout or help against it?

Fish oil supplements are made from highly purified, molecularly distilled dish oil which does not contain any purines. It should not affect gout. It is a good supplement to take for over health and function.

Can enzyme supplement help for against gout?

Enzymes can aid in the breakdown of foods, specifically proteins which can help take the stress off your organs. A good supplement to consider is Denzpro, which contains Bromelain, an enzyme commonly used for gout relief.

Is there a supplement that is good for gout prevention?

This article extensively covers various supplements that you can take for Gout.

Gout supplements to avoid?

There are many supplements out there and we try not to badmouth any particular people or brands in particular. It's best to follow the guidelines in this post.

Do green drink supplement help?

Green drinks high in green vegetables can help provide immune support, anti-inflammatory relief and can provide you with nutrients.

I read on a forum that magnesium is good for gout is it true?

Magnesium is a good mineral to include in your purine free diet as it can cover any nutritional deficiencies you might encounter as you make your dietary changes.

Malic acid supplement for gout?

Malic acid has been shown to dissolve uric acid, which helps makes it easily dissolvable by the kidney.

Is milk supplement good or bad? I read that skim milk can help?

Research conducted by the American College of Rheumatology found that drinking skim milk has shown a greater increase in the removal of uric acid by the kidneys.

Can msm supplement be used against gout flare ups?

MSM if taken at 3,000 mg twice a day can help to decrease the inflammation caused by a gout flare-up.

Is nitric oxide good supplement for gout?

Nitric oxide is essential in many cellular activities, including transmission of information between nerve and brain cells, regulating blood pressure, reducing inflammation, improving sleep quality and assisting in gastric motility. It was found that uric acid is responsible for the inactivation of nitric oxide. It is a good idea to take nitric oxide to help combat its inactivity due to uric acid.

Should I incorporate potassium supplement?

Potassium deficiency is common among gout patients and can often be linked to their gout flare-ups. It is a good idea to include a potassium supplement, especially if you have a potassium deficiency.

Is vitamin d supplement good?

Vitamin D deficiency is common among gout patients and can often be linked to their gout flare-ups. It is a good idea to include a Vitamin D supplement, especially if you have a vitamin D deficiency.

References

¹ Cheeke PR, et al. Anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects of Yucca schidigera: A review. Journal of Inflammation. 2006;3:6.
² Bingham R, et al. Yucca plant saponin in the management of arthritis. Journal of Applied Nutrition. 1975;27:45.
³ National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d.
⁴ Walker, AF, R. Bundy, SM Hicks, and RW Middleton. National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 2002.
^5/9-10 Peters, David, and Kenneth R. Pelletier. New Medicine: Complete Family Health Guide: Integrating Complementary, Alternative, and Conventional Medicine for the Safest and Most Effective Treatment. New York, NY: DK, 2007. Print.
⁶ Chopra, A., Lavin, P., Patwardhan, B., and Chitre, D. A 32-week randomized, placebo-controlled clinical evaluation of RA-11, an Ayurvedic drug, on osteoarthritis of the knees. J Clin Rheumatol. 2004;10(5):236-245. View abstract.
⁷ Schutz, K., R. Carle, and A. Schbieber. "Result Filters." National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 11 Oct. 2006.
^8- Lin CC, Lu JM, Yang JJ, et al. Anti-inflammatory and radical scavenge effects of Arctium lappa. Am J Chin Med 1996;24:127-37. View abstract.
¹¹ "Cochrane." Dietary Supplements for Chronic Gout. The Cochrane Collaboration, n.d.
¹² Woolf K, Manore MM. Elevated plasma homocysteine and low vitamin B-6 status in nonsupplementing older women with rheumatoid arthritis. J Am Diet Assoc
¹³ Spector, Thomas, and Robert Ferone. "Folic Acid Does Not Inactivate Xanthine Oxidase." The Journal of Biological Chemistry 259.17 (1984): 10784-0786. Print.