Best tart cherry supplements for gout

 

Best Tart Cherry Supplements for Gout: A Comprehensive Review

Gout sufferers know all too well the excruciating pain that accompanies a flare-up. This form of inflammatory arthritis, characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joints, has sent many searching for relief beyond conventional medications. Among the natural remedies gaining significant attention, tart cherry supplements stand out for their potential anti-inflammatory properties and uric acid-reducing capabilities.

Understanding Gout and How Tart Cherries May Help

Gout occurs when urate crystals accumulate in joints, causing inflammation and intense pain. These crystals form when the body has high levels of uric acid in the blood. While conventional treatments like NSAIDs and colchicine remain standard, many patients seek complementary approaches to manage symptoms and reduce flare frequency.

Tart cherries (Prunus cerasus), particularly the Montmorency variety, contain compounds called anthocyanins that have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in several studies. These powerful antioxidants may help reduce inflammation and lower uric acid levels—the two primary factors in gout management.

Evidence Supporting Tart Cherry for Gout

Research into tart cherry's effects on gout has shown promising results:

• A study published in the Journal of Functional Foods found that consuming tart cherry juice for four weeks significantly reduced serum urate levels in participants with elevated levels.

• Research in Arthritis & Rheumatology demonstrated that cherry intake was associated with a 35% lower risk of gout attacks.

• A 2019 review in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine concluded that cherry consumption shows promise for preventing gout flares and reducing uric acid levels.

While these findings are encouraging, it's important to note that tart cherry supplements should complement rather than replace conventional gout treatments prescribed by healthcare providers.

Top Tart Cherry Supplements for Gout Management

When selecting a tart cherry supplement, consider factors such as potency, form, additional ingredients, and manufacturing quality. Here are some of the best options currently available:

1. Tart Cherry Extract Capsules

Extract capsules offer concentrated forms of tart cherry's beneficial compounds. Look for products that specify the amount of anthocyanins or the cherry concentration ratio (often expressed as 10:1 or similar).

Quality products typically contain 1000-2000mg of tart cherry extract per serving and should be standardized to contain specific amounts of anthocyanins for consistent results.

2. Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate

For those who prefer liquid supplements, juice concentrates provide a potent option. The best concentrates contain no added sugars or preservatives and require only a small amount (typically 1-2 tablespoons) diluted in water daily.

Juice concentrates may be particularly beneficial as they're often less processed than capsules, potentially preserving more of the natural compounds found in cherries.

3. Tart Cherry Powder

Powdered supplements offer versatility, as they can be mixed into smoothies, yogurt, or water. Premium powders are typically freeze-dried to preserve nutritional integrity and contain no fillers or artificial ingredients.

Effective dosages usually range from 1-2 teaspoons daily, providing approximately 1500-3000mg of tart cherry powder.

4. Combination Supplements

Some manufacturers combine tart cherry with other natural compounds known to support joint health and uric acid management:

• Tart cherry with celery seed extract, which contains compounds that may help promote uric acid excretion
• Formulations including turmeric or ginger for additional anti-inflammatory benefits
• Products containing vitamin C, which some research suggests may help lower uric acid levels

These combinations may offer synergistic effects, potentially enhancing the overall benefits for gout management.

What to Look for When Choosing a Tart Cherry Supplement

Potency and Standardization

The effectiveness of a tart cherry supplement largely depends on its concentration of active compounds. Superior products will specify:

• The concentration ratio (e.g., 10:1, meaning 10 pounds of cherries were used to create 1 pound of extract)
• Anthocyanin content (measured in milligrams)
• Total phenolic content

Products standardized to contain specific amounts of these compounds ensure consistent potency from batch to batch.

Form and Bioavailability

Different forms of tart cherry supplements offer varying levels of bioavailability—how well your body can absorb and utilize the active compounds:

• Liquid extracts and juice concentrates may offer superior absorption compared to capsules
• Some capsule formulations include substances like bioperine (black pepper extract) to enhance absorption
• Time-release formulations may provide extended benefits throughout the day

Manufacturing Quality

Reputable supplements undergo rigorous quality control processes:

• Look for products manufactured in GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certified facilities
• Third-party testing verifies potency and screens for contaminants
• Organic certification ensures the product is free from pesticide residues

 

Additional Ingredients

Examine the label for unwanted additives:

• Avoid products containing artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
• Be cautious of added sugars, particularly in juice products
• Check for potential allergens if you have sensitivities

Dosage Recommendations

While optimal dosages vary based on individual factors and supplement forms, general guidelines include:

• Capsules: 1000-2000mg of extract daily
• Juice concentrate: 1-2 tablespoons daily, typically diluted in water
• Powder: 1-2 teaspoons (approximately 1500-3000mg) daily

For acute gout flares, some practitioners suggest temporarily increasing the dosage, though this should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

Tart cherry supplements are generally well-tolerated, but considerations include:

• Potential interactions with blood thinners due to natural compounds that may affect platelet activity
• Possible digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals
• Sugar content in some juice products may be concerning for diabetics

Always consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any supplement regimen, particularly if you have existing health conditions or take medications.

Conclusion

Tart cherry supplements show promising potential as complementary approaches to conventional gout management strategies. Their anti-inflammatory properties and potential uric acid-lowering effects make them worthy of consideration for those suffering from gout.

When selecting a supplement, prioritize potency, manufacturing quality, and the form that best suits your preferences and lifestyle. Remember that consistency is key—the beneficial effects of tart cherry supplements typically develop over time with regular use.

While natural approaches like tart cherry can be valuable additions to a gout management plan, they work best when integrated into a comprehensive strategy that includes appropriate medical care, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications.

 

References

1. Zhang Y, et al. "Cherry consumption and decreased risk of recurrent gout attacks." Arthritis & Rheumatology. 2012;64(12):4004-4011.

2. Bell PG, et al. "Montmorency cherries reduce the oxidative stress and inflammatory responses to repeated days high-intensity stochastic cycling." Nutrients. 2014;6(2):829-843.

3. Collins MW, et al. "The effectiveness of Montmorency tart cherry juice in reducing muscle damage, inflammation and oxidative stress associated with half-marathon running." Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 2020;17(1):14.

4. Kelley DS, et al. "Consumption of Bing sweet cherries lowers circulating concentrations of inflammation markers in healthy men and women." Journal of Nutrition. 2013;143(3):340-344.

5. Schlesinger N, et al. "Pilot studies of cherry juice concentrate for gout flare prophylaxis." Journal of Arthritis. 2012;1:101.

6. Chen PE, et al. "Tart Cherry Components and Their Therapeutic Role in Inflammatory Disease Treatments: A Review." Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2019:9691213.