10 natural supplements that may ease gout pain and reduce uric acid levels naturally

Gout treatment reduces uric acid levels to prevent painful joint crystals, often affecting the feet and toes.

Managing the condition typically involves dietary changes, medications, and supplements to ease inflammation and improve symptoms.

Gout affects around 9 million Americans, often starting with a painful attack on the big toe. On average, people with gout miss more workdays each year due to the condition, according to WebMD.

For those newly diagnosed, questions often arise about its symptoms, treatments, and whether supplements can help.

This article breaks down how supplements might aid in managing gout.

Gout

Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, causes sudden and intense joint pain, often accompanied by swelling, redness, and warmth.

While it normally affects the big toe, it can also affedt other joints, including the knees and ankles.

The condition is triggered by hyperuricemia, or high uric acid levels in the blood, resulting from the breakdown of purines in certain foods and drinks.

When the kidneys can’t filter out excess uric acid, it builds up and forms crystals in the joints, leading to painful flare-ups that often occur unexpectedly, especially at night.

Gout is more common in men, often developing at a younger age. At the same time, women typically experience it after menopause due to hormonal changes.

Various factors can increase the risk, including obesity, high blood pressure, kidney problems, and medications like diuretics.

Lifestyle choices, such as heavy drinking, high-fructose foods, or consuming purine-rich foods like red meat and seafood, also contribute to the risk.

Additionally, a family history of gout may make some people more likely to develop the condition.

Gout symptoms

Gout typically causes sudden, severe pain, often at night.

While the big toe is the most common spot, other joints can also be affected, leading to redness, swelling, stiffness, tenderness, and a burning sensation.

These painful attacks can last up to two weeks, but in between, people may not experience any symptoms.

The frequency of attacks varies, with some people having them often while others may go years without one.

It’s important to note that if gout isn’t treated, future attacks can become more frequent and severe.

10 natural gout supplements backed by studies

Many people use medicine to treat gout. Others also look for natural items that may help with gout.

Some vitamins and plant extracts may help lower uric acid levels or reduce swelling, says Healthline.

Still, doctors say it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before trying new supplements. Some can affect how other medicines work.

Here are 10 natural items that research suggests may help relieve gout pain.

1. Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps support the immune system. It may also help lower uric acid levels. A 2009 study of 47,000 men found that higher Vitamin C intake was linked to a lower risk of developing gout.

However, a 2013 study showed that for people who already had gout, small doses of Vitamin C did not greatly reduce uric acid levels. Vitamin C can be found in fruits and vegetables or taken as a supplement.

2. Skim Milk Powder

Some research suggests skim milk powder may help ease gout symptoms. A 2014 research review found that while it did not cure gout, it helped improve symptoms.

In a 2012 study, people who used skim milk powder reported less pain and fewer gout attacks each year. These findings suggest it may support gout pain relief for some individuals.

3. Bromelain Extract

Bromelain is an extract from pineapples. It is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Experts believe it may help reduce swelling.

Some research suggests that bromelain could help ease joint puffiness associated with gout. Still, scientists say more studies are needed before firm conclusions can be made.

4. Fish Oil

Fish oil is widely known for its heart health benefits. It may also help reduce inflammation in the joints.

While certain types of fish can raise uric acid levels, Fish oil supplements are processed to remove the parts linked to uric acid. This makes them generally safer for people looking for natural remedies for gout.

5. Ginger

Ginger has long been used to fight swelling. A 2017 study tested Red Ginger in a warm compress placed on the skin. Some participants reported less pain after using it.

The study was small, so more research is needed. Still, ginger may help reduce gout swelling in some cases.

6. Guava Leaves Extract

Guava is known as a healthy fruit. Research suggests that guava leaf juice may have “anti-gout” effects.

This means it may help fight the crystal buildup caused by high uric acid levels. More studies are needed to fully understand how it works in people with gout.

7. Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Milk thistle, also called Silybum marianum, is often used to support liver health. A 2016 animal study found that it may help lower uric acid levels.

Because the study was done on animals, researchers say human studies are still needed to confirm the results.

8. Turmeric

Turmeric is a bright yellow spice often used in cooking. Many people take it for joint pain.

A study on mice found that a special form of turmeric may help lower uric acid levels. While the findings are promising, more human research is needed before it can be recommended as a proven gout treatment.

9. Cherries

Cherries have been widely studied for their role in gout. Two 2012 studies found that cherries may lower blood uric acid levels.

Lower uric acid levels can help prevent gout attacks before they begin. People can eat fresh cherries or drink cherry juice as part of their diet.

10. Coffee

Coffee has also been studied for its link to gout. A 2015 analysis of many research studies found that coffee consumption may help lower uric acid levels and reduce the risk of gout.

However, the Mayo Clinic advises that people should not start drinking coffee solely to treat gout if they do not already drink it.

Here are some foods you must avoid if you have gout:

(Note: This article is for informational purposes only and not to be treated as a professional opinion or diagnosis. If you’re dealing with any of these signs & symptoms or know someone who does, it’s important to always consult with your doctor or a specialist.)