Gout is a form of arthritis that affects about 1 in 100 people worldwide. The condition is caused by the buildup of uric acid in the body, which can form crystals in the joints. Treatment for gout typically involves medication to relieve pain and inflammation, but some people may also benefit from supplements.
There are many different gout supplements available in Malaysia, and it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. This article compares and shares information on the most common uric acid supplements available in Malaysia's market.
Gout Supplements in Malaysia: The Ultimate Comparison
In Malaysia, there are several types of gout supplements available. Here are some market comparisons of popular gout supplements:
1. Alkalizing salt (Ural Effervescent Salt, Clearogout Effervescent Salt)
Alkalizing salt relieves gout pain by neutralising the body's uric acid concentration. This means that it aids in pH balance and makes the body less acidic.
Pros: | Cons: |
In powder form, to be mixed with water and consumed. Suitable for those who prefer to drink rather than swallow pills. | To be effective, a high dosage is required: 1 to 2 sachets, 3-4 times daily. |
Nice drink taste | According to the prescribing information, it may not be suitable for long-term use by patients with kidney or heart problems. |
​ | Because of the high sodium content, users are advised to follow a low-sodium diet while using alkalizing salt. |
2. Celery capsule (Natural Factor Celery Seed Extract)
Celery is a diuretic that can help lower blood uric acid levels. It functions by increasing the amount of water and sodium excreted from the body through urination. This lowers the risk of gout attacks by lowering the concentration of uric acid in the blood.
Pros: | Cons: |
Through its diuretic effects, celery removes excess uric acid from the urine. Some gout patients can experience fast relief. | ​Celery as a natural diuretic. Thus, people with kidney problems should limit their celery consumption, as excessive consumption may put additional strain on their kidneys. |
Patients with high blood pressure may benefit from celery. Celery contains phthalides, which are phytochemicals. It relaxes the artery wall tissue, increasing blood flow and decreasing blood pressure. | ​Celery can cause allergies in some people. Skin rashes to anaphylaxis are all examples of celery's allergic reactions. |
​ | Celery stimulates urination. Frequent toilet visits may irritate some people. |
3. Tart Cherry ( Lakewood pure tart cherry juice, Gouch tart cherry plus extract powder & bromelain sachet)
Tart cherries are a natural source of anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants. Anthocyanins have been shown to help reduce inflammation in gout.
Pros: | Cons: |
There are liquid, powder, and capsule forms available. | The inconsistency of the effectiveness of tart cherries in lowering uric acid levels in gout patients. This could be due to it reducing inflammation but not serum uric acid levels. |
​According to some research, tart cherries can help you sleep better. | ​ |
4. Terminalia bellerica (CrystaGuard)
Terminalia bellerica is a popular Ayurvedic herb in India, and it is one of the ingredients in the highly popular product Triphala.
Though you may not have heard of Triphala, it is a staple in traditional Ayurvedic medicine in India and has been used for over 1,000 years as a healing remedy. Heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and premature ageing are all examples of common applications.
A recent randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled human clinical trial confirmed Terminalia bellerica extract's dose-dependent action in lowering uric acid levels in the blood.
The study found that taking 500 mg Terminalia bellerica extract twice daily reduced uric acid by a mean of 27.59% in volunteers with elevated levels.
This reduction in uric acid levels allowed 88.8% of those in the extract-treated study arm to achieve the desired uric acid serum levels...with no negative side effects.
Pros: | Cons: |
Human clinical trials demonstrated its efficacy in lowering uric acid levels. | ​It may take a longer duration (2-3 months) to achieve the best results. Useful for prevention rather than immediate relief. |
The study compares it to febuxostat, a common uric acid-lowering medication used in gout patients. | |
The clear mechanism of action. Its potent tannins appear to inhibit an enzyme (xanthine oxidase) involved in the synthesis of uric acid. | ​ |
It is an ayurvedic herb with a high safety profile that has been used for over 1000 years. | ​ |
Gout Supplements in Malaysia: Which One is Right for You?
It is clear that there are numerous brands and types of gout supplements available in Malaysia. It can be difficult to decide which one to select.
Most people prefer quick relief and a short duration of administration. However, for those who are prone to gout attacks, a preventive measure may be a better option.
A combination of short-term relief (such as alkalizing salt or celery) and long-term prevention (CrystaGuard) can be an effective treatment option for a gout attack.
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