Can vitamin C lower uric acid levels?
Disease description:
I have a series of unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as frequent smoking, alcohol consumption, and staying up late, which have recently caused my uric acid levels to become elevated. I've heard that high uric acid levels can lead to gout, so I am very concerned. May I ask if vitamin C can lower uric acid levels?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Tiesheng
Vitamin C helps reduce uric acid levels, primarily through the following mechanisms:
1. Inhibiting uric acid synthesis: Vitamin C reduces uric acid production by inhibiting the reabsorption of urate in the renal tubules.
2. Enhancing uric acid excretion: Vitamin C increases uric acid excretion by inhibiting the reabsorption of urate in the proximal renal tubules, thereby lowering serum uric acid levels.
3. Assisting in reducing xanthine oxidase activity: Vitamin C can partially replace xanthine oxidase activity and assist in reducing its activity, thus influencing the metabolism of uric acid.
When using vitamin C, it is important to follow medical advice and pay attention to dosage in order to avoid potential side effects from excessive intake, such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.
