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If you have gout, you probably already know that this happens because of a build up of uric acid in the system. That uric acid must have somewhere to go, and it often crystallizes in the joints. The big toe is the first place for gout to flare up for most people, and then other joints may follow. What you might not know is that there are some things that can naturally lower the amounts of this uric acid in your system. If you can find them, and they work for you, you may not have nearly as much pain as you normally do. Folic acid and gout relief may go hand in hand for some.

There has been some research that says 70 mgs of folic acid a day can lower the amounts of uric acid. However, other research has failed to repeat the findings. This might mean that taking folic acid may work for some people with gout, and not work for others. Vitamin C has shown more promise, but again, that might not work for everyone either. When it comes to natural remedies or supplementing with natural products, it is often a matter of waiting to see what works for you.

When it comes to folic acid and gout problems, what happens is pretty simple. It is thought that folic acid will neutralize an enzyme called xanthine oxidase. This encourages the production of uric acid in the body. If that enzyme is blocked to any degree, it might halt some of the excess uric acid from being produced and stored within your body. Of course, with less uric acid comes less pain, and less frequent gout flare-ups.

There are some things you should think about when you want to try a folic acid and gout remedy. Though some recommend the above stated amount of 70 mgs a day of folic acid other sources say as little as 10 mgs or somewhere in between the two at about 40 mgs a day should be taken. What you probably haven't considered, and most people don't when taking vitamins, is that you can take too much of a good thing. Even too much folic acid can cause problems in the body, especially for those with certain conditions.

If you have epilepsy, and you take medication for it, you should know that the folic acid and gout remedy might not be for you. This is because too much folic acid can interfere with your medication and render it less effective. It might also interfere with other vitamins in your body, and give you some unpleasant side effects.

Because of those reasons, and many other possible interactions, this is one remedy that you should discuss with your doctor first before taking it. If they agree you can try it, always report anything that might seem unusual as soon as possible. That way your doctor can determine if it is the result of the folic acid and gout remedy or not. Getting gout problems taken care of is important, but your overall health is even more important.