Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin found in a variety of foods, including citrus fruits, broccoli, and peppers. It is an essential micronutrient for humans, supporting the immune system and helping prevent various diseases. Vitamin C has been studied for its potential protective effect against gout by reducing serum uric acid levels (1).

In a 2009 study by Hyon Choi, MD; Xiang Gao, MD; and Gary Curhan, MD, 46,994 men were followed over a 20-year period (1986–2006) to investigate the relationship between Vitamin C intake and the risk of gout. A total of 1,317 confirmed cases of incident gout were documented. The study found that the relative risk for gout decreased with higher daily Vitamin C intake (<250 mg/day to ≥1,500 mg/day), suggesting that supplemental Vitamin C may help prevent gout (1).

In a 2011 meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials involving 556 participants, a significant reduction in serum uric acid levels was found in those taking 500 mg/day of Vitamin C for 30 days. Hyperuricemia—the primary risk factor for developing gout—results from excessively high serum uric acid levels. Vitamin C continues to be studied as a potential alternative to medications that may carry significant side effects (2).

Although there have been promising results regarding Vitamin C intake as a preventive measure against gout, studies are ongoing. High doses of Vitamin C can cause side effects such as diarrhea, bloating, and kidney stones, particularly in men.

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