What Are the Best Vitamins for Uric Acid?

November 20, 2025 •

3 min read

According to a 2024 meta-analysis, certain dietary supplements like folic acid and probiotics show significant potential in reducing uric acid levels, which is crucial for managing conditions like gout. Understanding what are the best vitamins for uric acid can be a powerful tool in your overall health strategy.

Quick Summary

This article explores the scientific evidence for vitamins like C, D, and B-complex, detailing their potential roles in lowering uric acid. It outlines effective vitamins, explains their mechanisms, and mentions those to approach with caution.

Key Points

Vitamin C: Promotes kidney function to help flush excess uric acid, with 500mg daily showing potential benefits for hyperuricemia, though results for established gout are less clear,.
Folic Acid (Vitamin B9): Studies indicate folic acid may reduce hyperuricemia risk by influencing homocysteine levels and potentially modulating gut health,.
Vitamin D: An inverse relationship exists between serum Vitamin D and uric acid levels, with supplementation showing promise in specific populations, like those with prediabetes,.
Antioxidant Support: Vitamins like C and E help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, factors often associated with elevated uric acid.
Consult a Professional: It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new vitamin regimen for uric acid, as supplements are not a replacement for prescribed medication.
Avoid Certain Vitamins: High doses of niacin and Vitamin A should be approached with caution, as some studies suggest they may potentially increase uric acid levels.
Integrated Approach: A comprehensive strategy combining proper hydration, a low-purine diet, exercise, and weight management provides the most effective support for healthy uric acid levels,.

The Role of Vitamins in Uric Acid Metabolism

Elevated uric acid levels, a condition known as hyperuricemia, can lead to painful gout attacks and other health complications. While medical treatment is often necessary, certain vitamins can play a supportive role. These nutrients work through various mechanisms, such as enhancing the kidneys' ability to excrete uric acid, acting as antioxidants, or impacting the metabolic pathways that produce uric acid in the first place,. It is important to note that dietary supplements are an adjunct to, not a replacement for, professional medical advice and prescribed treatments.

Vitamin C: A Top Contender for Uric Acid Control

Vitamin C consistently shows promising results for lowering uric acid levels, acting by promoting its excretion in urine,. Studies suggest an inverse relationship between intake and serum uric acid concentrations,. A daily intake of at least 500mg from supplements may reduce uric acid in those with hyperuricemia, although the effect might be less significant in individuals with established gout,. Good dietary sources include citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli, and strawberries.

Folic Acid and B-Complex Vitamins

Research on B-complex vitamins, particularly folic acid (Vitamin B9) and Vitamin B12, indicates potential benefits for uric acid. Folic acid may lower hyperuricemia risk and has been found effective in reducing serum uric acid in studies,. Vitamin B12 also shows an inverse association with uric acid levels. Other B vitamins may offer general metabolic support and anti-inflammatory properties.

Vitamin D: More Than Just Bone Health

Vitamin D status may be linked to uric acid concentrations, with many gout patients showing deficiency,. Studies indicate an inverse relationship between serum Vitamin D and uric acid levels. Supplementation has been associated with reduced serum uric acid in some clinical trials, but more extensive research is needed,.

Vitamin E: The Antioxidant Connection

Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant, may support uric acid management by combating oxidative stress. Research suggests an inverse association between dietary Vitamin E intake and hyperuricemia in certain populations, though more specific studies on gout are needed,.

Vitamins to Approach with Caution

Some vitamins may negatively affect uric acid levels. Niacin, particularly nicotinic acid, may inhibit uric acid excretion, potentially increasing levels. High doses of Vitamin A have also been associated with hyperuricemia in some studies,. Discuss these with a doctor if you have hyperuricemia or gout.

Vitamin Comparison for Uric Acid Management


Vitamin	Primary Mechanism	Primary Evidence	Potential Drawbacks/Caveats
Vitamin C	Promotes renal excretion of uric acid; potent antioxidant.	Strong inverse correlation; randomized trials show efficacy in hyperuricemia.	High doses may cause digestive issues; effectiveness varies in established gout.
Folic Acid (B9)	Lowers homocysteine levels; may modulate gut-kidney axis.	Evidence suggests an inverse relationship, but studies vary; promising meta-analysis findings.,	Effect less significant than prescription medication; best used as adjunct therapy.
Vitamin D	Inverse relationship with uric acid levels; deficiency common in gout patients.	Supplementation shows promise in prediabetic patients with hyperuricemia.	More large-scale randomized trials are needed to confirm effects across populations.
Vitamin E	Antioxidant properties combat oxidative stress.	Inverse association between dietary intake and hyperuricemia, especially in older men.	Limited randomized trial data on its specific impact on gout.
Niacin (B3)	Inhibits uric acid excretion (certain forms).	High doses linked to increased uric acid levels and potential gout induction.	Use with caution, especially at higher doses; may worsen hyperuricemia.

Lifestyle and Dietary Considerations

Managing uric acid effectively requires a holistic approach. Key lifestyle and dietary changes include:

Stay hydrated: Drink ample water to help excrete uric acid.
Limit high-purine foods: Reduce intake of organ meats, certain red meats, and seafood.
Avoid sugary drinks: High-fructose corn syrup can increase uric acid production.
Maintain a healthy weight: Weight management can help reduce uric acid levels.
Eat tart cherries: These may reduce gout attack risk due to anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion

Vitamins like C, folic acid, and D show potential in managing uric acid levels when part of a comprehensive approach,,. Vitamin C aids excretion, folic acid may impact production, and Vitamin D is linked to uric acid metabolism. High-dose Niacin and Vitamin A should be used cautiously. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting supplements, especially with conditions like gout. For more resources on managing gout, the Arthritis Foundation offers helpful information.

Link: Arthritis Foundation Gout Diet Dos and Don'ts

Frequently Asked Questions

No, taking Vitamin C alone is not a cure for gout. While it can help lower uric acid levels, especially in cases of hyperuricemia, it should be used as part of a broader management plan that includes diet, lifestyle changes, and medication as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

A daily intake of around 500mg of Vitamin C from supplements has been suggested by some research to have a beneficial effect on uric acid levels. However, it is essential to discuss the appropriate dosage with your doctor before starting supplementation.

Some B-complex vitamins, particularly folic acid (B9) and Vitamin B12, have shown an association with lower uric acid levels in various studies,. Folic acid may assist by influencing homocysteine metabolism and gut health. However, their effect is generally considered complementary to other therapies.

Yes, caution is advised with niacin, particularly at higher doses. Some evidence indicates that certain forms of niacin may increase uric acid levels and potentially trigger gout, so it is best to consult your doctor before using this supplement.

Yes, several epidemiological and clinical studies have identified an inverse relationship between Vitamin D status and serum uric acid levels, meaning lower vitamin D is often associated with higher uric acid. Supplementation has shown promise in some trials for reducing uric acid.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress, which is often elevated in individuals with hyperuricemia. An inverse association between dietary Vitamin E intake and hyperuricemia has been noted, although more specific research on gout is needed.

While a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy can help manage uric acid, relying solely on diet may not be sufficient for therapeutic effect. Supplements can provide more concentrated doses, but should be used under medical supervision, especially in cases of diagnosed hyperuricemia or gout.

Many natural strategies can help lower uric acid. These include drinking plenty of water, incorporating tart cherry juice or extract, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting intake of high-purine and sugary foods,,.