Can Probiotics Help With Gout?

Probiotics, particularly the strain Lactobacillus salivarius CECT 30632, can be beneficial in helping to reduce the number of gout episodes. Lactobacillus Probiotics, can degrade purines in the blood and guard against kidney damage, which is relevant to gout management according to research.

Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe joint pain, inflammation, and tenderness, typically affecting the big toe. Lactobacillus probiotics are a type of beneficial bacteria that belong to the Lactobacillus genus and are commonly used in supplements and fermented foods to promote gut health and balance.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a common form of inflammatory arthritis that causes sudden and intense joint pain, often affecting the big toe joint. It is characterized by the accumulation of urate crystals in the joints, leading to inflammation and severe discomfort during gout attacks. 

Gout can have periods of flares with symptoms and periods of remission without symptoms. Treatment options and preventive measures are available to manage gout and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

In 2019, there were approximately 1.36 million new cases of gout, 5.21 million existing cases, and 0.18 million years lived with disability among individuals aged 15-39 years, accounting for a significant portion of global gout cases and disability according to 2023 research authored by J Zhang.

What Is Gout Caused By?

Gout is primarily caused by a condition called hyperuricemia, which refers to an excessive amount of uric acid in the body. Uric acid is produced when purines, substances found in the body and certain foods, are broken down. The buildup of uric acid can lead to the formation of urate crystals in the joints, triggering inflammation and intense pain during gout attacks. 

It is emphasized that factors such as diet, genetics, obesity, certain medical conditions, and medications can contribute to the development of hyperuricemia and increase the risk of gout. Managing the underlying cause of hyperuricemia and making lifestyle modifications are often recommended to prevent gout flares and manage the condition.

Which Probiotic Is Good For Gout?

The 4 best probiotics good for managing and treating gout are Lactobacillus probiotic bacteria that include L. Salivarius, L. Reuteri, L Fermentum and L. Plantarum, probiotic bacteria according to research. 

A 2023 study authored by JM Rodríguez, found that regular administration of the probiotic strain Ligilactobacillus salivarius CECT 30632 reduced serum urate levels, the number of gout episodes, and the need for gout-related medications in individuals with a history of hyperuricemia and recurrent gout episodes.

A 2021 study authored by YW Kuo, found that the probiotic strains Lactobacillus reuteri TSR332 and Lactobacillus fermentum TSF331 have the ability to stabilize serum uric acid levels and prevent hyperuricemia in rats. These probiotics demonstrated strong assimilation of purine compounds in vitro and significantly reduced serum uric acid levels by 60% and 30%, respectively, in hyperuricemic rats treated with them for 8 days.

Is Sauerkraut Good For Gout?

Yes, Sauerkraut is good for Gout symptoms according to research. A 2014 study authored by M Li, found that certain lactic acid bacteria strains isolated from Chinese sauerkraut, particularly the strain DM9218-A derived from Lactobacillus plantarum WCFS1, have the potential to efficiently reduce serum uric acid levels in hyperuricemic rats.

The administration of DM9218-A resulted in a significant decrease in serum uric acid concentration, suggesting its potential as an adjunctive treatment for hyperuricemia. Sauerkraut is a fermented cabbage dish that is tangy and flavorful, often used as a condiment or side dish.

Can Probiotics Cure Gout?

Probiotics may have the potential to manage and alleviate gout symptoms but there is currently no research that shows they can cure gout. A 2022 study authored by S Tong, found that the gut microbiota plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of gout and probiotics can alter the microbiota.

Changes in the composition and metabolism of the gut microbiota can lead to hyperuricemia and gout flare-ups. The study highlights that targeting the gut microbiota through therapeutic approaches such as prebiotics, probiotics, may offer potential avenues for the prevention and treatment of gout. Examination of the gut microbiota can serve as a non-invasive and reliable diagnostic tool for gout.

Can Probiotics Cause Gout?

There is no research that suggest Probiotics can cause Gout since they instead tend to have an anti-inflammatory effect whilst improving sugar and uric acid metabolism according to Rostyslav Bubnov, PhD. You should avoid probiotics if you are immunocompromised, have pancreatitis, are an infant with short bowel syndrome or have a central venous catheter.