Greater vitamin C intake from food and supplements equals lower gout risk

Men who have a high intake of vitamin C may have a reduced risk of developing gout according to a report published in the March 9, 2009 issue of the American Medical Association journal Archives of Internal Medicine.

Gout is the most common type of inflammatory arthritis in men. The disease is characterized by higher than normal blood uric acid, which forms crystal deposits in the joints that cause inflammation and severe pain.Researchers led by Hyon K. Choi, MD, DrPH at the University of British Columbia analyzed data from 46,994 participants in the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study of dentists, osteopaths, optometrists, podiatrists and veterinarians. Responses to dietary questionnaires completed by the subjects upon enrollment in 1986 and every four years through 2006 were evaluated for vitamin C content from food and supplements. Data concerning weight, medication use, and medical conditions were collected every two years. Continue Reading