Supplements for Gout: What Works Best?

Supplements for Gout: What Works?

Gout is a painful form of inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid buildup in the body. While medications help manage gout attacks and prevent future flares, certain supplements may also provide additional benefits.

Dietary supplements should not replace standard gout medications prescribed by your doctor. But when used appropriately, supplements can be a complementary approach to controlling gout and lowering uric acid levels.

How Supplements Help Gout

Supplements can assist with gout management in a few key ways:

• Lowering uric acid levels
• Reducing inflammation
• Providing antioxidant support
• Preventing future gout attacks

When selecting supplements for gout, speak with your doctor to ensure they are safe for you and do not interact with any medications you take.

Supplements to Lower Uric Acid

As gout results from excess uric acid buildup, lowering uric acid levels is a primary treatment goal. Some supplements may help reduce uric acid include:

Vitamin C

Vitamin C aids uric acid excretion. Studies show 500-1500 mg per day can lower uric acid levels and reduce gout attacks. Slowly increase dosage to avoid GI side effects.

Folic Acid

Folic acid supplements may inhibit xanthine oxidase, an enzyme involved in uric acid production. Typical dosages are 5-10 mg per day.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle aids liver and kidney function. Improving the excretion of uric acid. Take 250-500 mg per day to potentially lower uric acid.

Bromelain

Derived from pineapple, bromelain demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects that may decrease uric acid levels. Dosages range from 200-400 mg two or three times daily.

Quercetin

This antioxidant flavonoid may reduce uric acid production and inflammation. Usual dosages are 500-1000 mg once or twice daily between meals.

Anti-Inflammatory Supplements for Gout

Inflammation drives the intense pain of gout flare-ups. Anti-inflammatory supplements may help reduce gout swelling and discomfort.

Cherry Extract

Cherries contain anthocyanins and other compounds with anti-inflammatory actions. Taking cherry extract may minimize gout pain and stiffness.

Fish Oil

Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil supplements have anti-inflammatory effects. They may also limit uric acid production. Take 2-4 grams daily.

Ginger

Ginger possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may ease gout inflammation when taken regularly. Use doses around 1-4 grams per day in capsule, tea or food form.

Curcumin

Curcumin, found in the spice turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Take 400-600 mg three times per day.

Boswellia

Also known as frankincense, boswellia serrata tree extracts have traditional anti-inflammatory uses. Take 300-400 mg three times a day.

Antioxidant Supplements for Gout

Inflammation during gout leads to high levels of cell-damaging free radicals. Antioxidant supplements may help neutralize these compounds.

Vitamin C

In addition to lowering uric acid, vitamin C is a strong antioxidant. Take 500-1000 mg daily in divided doses with food.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E protects cells from free radical damage. Use doses of 400-800 IU per day.

Selenium

Selenium boosts antioxidant enzymes in the body. Take 100-200 mcg per day for antioxidant support.

Anthocyanins

Found in colorful fruits like berries, anthocyanins are antioxidant compounds that reduce inflammation. Get anthocyanins from whole foods or cherry/bilberry extracts.

Other Potential Supplements for Gout

Some other supplements that may help prevent gout attacks include:

Probiotics

Probiotics support gut health and immune function. They may reduce gout flare-ups triggered by infections. Take at least 10 billion CFUs daily.

coffee

Coffee has antioxidant effects that lower uric acid. Drink 1-2 cups per day, being mindful of caffeine content.

Devil's Claw

Used traditionally to treat arthritis, devil's claw may ease gout pain. Use 450-500 mg three times daily.

Nettle

Stinging nettle extracts provide anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects. Take 300-400 mg up to three times per day.

Supplements to Avoid with Gout

Certain supplements may worsen gout symptoms or interact with gout medications. Supplements to use with caution or avoid include:

Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

High-dose niacin may increase uric acid levels. Limit to the RDA unless directed otherwise.

Iron

Excess iron can increase gout risk. Get iron levels tested before supplementing.

Vitamin A & D

Very high doses of vitamins A and D may raise uric acid. Do not exceed the Tolerable Upper Intake Level.

L-Carnitine

This amino acid supplement may trigger gout attacks. Those prone to gout should avoid L-carnitine.

Yeast

Brewer's yeast extracts may interact with gout medications and increase flare-ups.

Seeking Medical Guidance

Work closely with your healthcare provider regarding gout supplements to:

• Confirm supplement safety given your medical history
• Avoid interactions with medications
• Prevent complications or side effects
• Determine optimal supplement dosing
• Coordinate treatments for best gout management

Blood tests help tailor supplement regimens and track uric acid levels over time. Regular medical follow-ups ensure supplements complement gout prescription drugs effectively.

The Bottom Line

When used properly, certain supplements may assist with gout management. Vitamin C, fish oils, probiotics and anti-inflammatory herbs help lower uric acid production, reduce inflammation and prevent gout attacks. However, supplements should complement gout medications, not replace them. Work with your doctor to create an integrated treatment plan.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.