Using Folic Acid for Gout Relief and Prevention

Folic acid and folate are water-soluble B vitamins. Folate occurs naturally in food and folic acid is its synthetic form which can be created in labs. Folic acid is essential for healthy brain function and is largely responsible for major aspects of development during infancy.

Folic Acid for Gout Relief and Prevention

Folic Acid is an essential B vitamin that aids in the breakdown macronutrients that are critical for the function and effectiveness of your organs. Keeping your organs such as your kidneys and liver fueled will help ensure that it can work effective to filter uric acid out of the blood and into your urine. Additionally, folic acid contains properties that have xanthine oxidase inhibiting properties.

Folic Acid Sources

Folate can be obtain through rich dietary sources that include, spinach, dark leafy greens, asparagus, turnips, beets, mustard greens, Brussels sprouts, Lima beans, soybeans, beef liver, root vegetables, whole grains, wheat germ, bulgur wheat, kidney beans, white beans, mung beans, salmon, orange juice, avocado and milk.

Folic Acid Supplement Variations

Folic Acid or vitamin B9 is available in a variety of supplement variations that include:

• Chewables
• Liquid Drops
• B complex vitamins
• Tablets
• Soft gels
• Lozenges

Folic acid is best taken in combination with a multivitamin or other B vitamins in order to active its chemical properties.

How to Use Folic Acid for Gout Relief and Prevention

Most of your folate consumption can be obtained through a balanced and nutritious diet. However, if you are unable to obtain the recommended amounts, then you can supplement with a capsule or tablet folic acid instead. The recommended amount of folic acid for adults Is 400 mcg daily. When taking folic acid independently, it is best to take it with a multivitamin or other B vitamins in order for the compound to be active.

Precautions

Folic acid is considered safe when taken in recommended daily amounts or under the supervision of a health care provider. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding can take folic acid at the recommended amounts provided by their health care practitioner. Children, teenagers and young adults can also take folic acid at the recommended amounts provided by a doctor. Folic acid may mask anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency and you should be screened for this prior to taking folic acid. Consuming more than the recommended amounts of folic acid daily might increase your risk of cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can too much folic acid cause gout?

Consuming more than the recommended daily amount of folic acid (for adults 400mcg RDA) can cause side effects that include: stomach problems, sleep problems, skin reactions, confusion, loss of appetite, nausea, seizures and also increase your risk for the development of cancer. Not much is known about the excessive consumption of folic acid and gout, however it is better to remain within the recommended daily amounts to avoid other side-effects.

Is folic acid good for gout prevention?

Folic acid has been observed to produce photolytic products that have xanthine oxidase inhibiting effects. Xanthine oxidase is the enzyme responsible for uric acid production and if inactivated can significantly help in decreasing uric acid levels and prevent future gout attacks.

How much should I take to get relief?

The recommended daily amount of folic acid is 400 mcg for adults (ages 19 and up). You can obtain folic acid through a balanced and nutritious diet and can also supplement with over-the-counter supplements and drugs. When taking folic acid independently, it is best to take it with a multivitamin or other B vitamins in order for the compound to be active.