Lemon juice and its effects on uric acid
Gout is a metabolic disorder characterized by high uric acid in the blood, crystal deposition in joints, causing inflammation and severe pain. In addition to drug treatment, many people seek natural remedies, in which lemon water is often mentioned as a "solution" to help lower uric acid. So is this concept scientifically supported?
According to some nutritional studies, lemons are a fruit rich in vitamin C and are alkaline after being metabolized in the body. Vitamin C has been shown to help increase uric acid excretion through the kidneys, thereby contributing to a slight reduction in uric acid levels in the blood.
Vitamin C in citrus fruits like lemons can help lower uric acid, but it is a modest effect and cannot replace gout, says Dr Richard Johnson, a medical professor at the University of Colorado (USA).
In fact, some clinical trials show that regular vitamin C supplementation can reduce uric acid by about 0.5 - 1 mg/dL. However, this effectiveness depends on the location and severity of each person's disease.
How to drink lemon water properly?
Although it has certain benefits, experts emphasize that lemon water is not a "manistic medicine" for people with gout. Dr Bethan Davies, a clinical nutritionist at King's College London Hospital (UK), recommends: "Gut patients can drink diluted, unsweetened lemon juice, but should only consider this as a supportive measure in a healthy diet".
Overusing thick lemon water, drinking it on an empty stomach or drinking too much during the day can cause stomach irritation, tooth enamel erosion and worsen digestive problems. In addition, lemon water does not help relieve acute gout attacks, nor can it replace uric acid-reducing drugs prescribed by doctors.
Experts recommend that gout patients should prioritize a diet low in purines, limit alcohol, red meat, seafood; drink enough water; maintain a reasonable weight and follow medical treatment regimens. Lemon juice, if used, should only be a small part of an overall healthy lifestyle.
In short, people with gout can drink lemon water, but need to understand its role correctly. Lemon juice is only slightly effective in controlling uric acid, not the main treatment measure. Before regular application, patients should consult a doctor to avoid unnecessary risks.
