Gout
What Does It Mean?
Gout is an inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the blood, leading to the formation of urate crystals in the joints. This results in episodes of severe pain, swelling, and redness. Functional Medicine focuses on reducing uric acid levels, improving kidney function, and addressing dietary and lifestyle factors contributing to gout.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Excess Uric Acid Production – High purine intake from foods like red meat, alcohol, and seafood increases uric acid levels.
- Kidney Dysfunction – Impaired kidney function reduces uric acid excretion, leading to accumulation.
- Metabolic Issues – Insulin resistance and obesity contribute to increased uric acid levels.
- Chronic Inflammation – Inflammatory pathways play a role in recurrent gout attacks.
- Dehydration & Alcohol Use – Lack of hydration and excessive alcohol consumption impair uric acid clearance.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Sudden and intense joint pain (commonly in the big toe)
- Swelling, redness, and tenderness in joints
- Stiffness and reduced mobility
- Recurrent flare-ups, often triggered by diet or dehydration
Lab Test Findings
(Note: Additional lab tests may be referenced for a comprehensive evaluation.)
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) | Normal or Increased | 10.00-16.00 mg/dL |
| Cholesterol, Serum | Normal or Increased | 180.00-220.00 mg/dL |
| Neutrophil % | Increased | 48.00-60.00% |
| Phosphorus (Phosphate) | Normal or Decreased | 3.00-4.00 mg/dL |
| Uric Acid | Increased | 3.50-5.40 mg/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
A Functional Medicine approach focuses on reducing uric acid levels, improving kidney function, and minimizing inflammatory triggers to prevent flare-ups.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Vita-Uric Pro | Helps lower uric acid levels and support kidney function | 3 capsules without food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces inflammation associated with gout flare-ups | 2 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Flux | Supports blood circulation and metabolic balance | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| V-Pax | Provides metabolic and cardiovascular support | 2 capsules without food, daily |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Antioxidant support and immune function | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Adopt a Low-Purine Diet: Reduce intake of red meat, alcohol, shellfish, and sugary drinks.
- Increase Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps flush excess uric acid.
- Support Kidney Function: Consume foods rich in antioxidants and avoid processed foods.
- Exercise & Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce metabolic stress.
- Monitor Triggers: Identify and eliminate foods or lifestyle factors that contribute to flare-ups.