According to the American Heart Association (AHA), vitamin C has the ability to enhance kidney function, helping to eliminate uric acid through urine more effectively.
A study published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology in 2009 found that supplementing with 500 mg of vitamin C daily for 6 weeks can significantly reduce blood uric acid levels in people with high uric acid levels.
This suggests that vitamin C not only helps reduce the risk of developing gout, but also helps those who already have the disease better manage their condition.
Foods rich in vitamin C include fruits such as oranges, lemons, kiwis, strawberries, and grapefruit, along with vegetables such as red bell peppers, kale, and broccoli.
For example, red bell peppers contain up to 190 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams, far exceeding the recommended daily requirement of vitamin C. Additionally, kiwis, a fruit rich in antioxidants, provide about 70 mg of vitamin C per fruit, which not only helps reduce uric acid but also helps improve heart health.
Another study from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that consuming foods rich in vitamin C not only helps reduce uric acid but also improves overall health.
Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, reducing inflammation and protecting cells from damage. These antioxidants also aid in purine metabolism, helping the body eliminate uric acid more naturally.
However, experts recommend that vitamin C supplementation should be done through natural foods rather than supplements, unless prescribed by a doctor.
For optimal results, combine a diet rich in vitamin C with limiting foods high in purines, such as red meat, seafood, and animal organs.