Uric Acid Supplements in Malaysia: The Best Comparison

Uric acid is a by-product of the normal function of the liver and is excreted in the urine. Uric acid levels are known to increase with age, and they can also be affected by lifestyle or certain medical conditions.

Uric acid reduction supplements are a popular and affordable way to reduce the risk of gout. However, there is no single best uric acid supplement for everyone. This article compares and shares the information on the most common uric acid supplements available in Malaysia's market.

Table of content:

1. What is uric acid, and what does it do?

2. What causes uric acid to become dangerous?

3. Uric acid level: What is normal?

4. Ways to reduce uric acid naturally without drugs

5. Uric acid supplements in Malaysia: The comparison!

   1. Alkalizing salt

   2. Celery

   3. Tart cherry

   4. Terminalia bellerica (Ayuric®)

6. Conclusion

What Is Uric Acid, and What Does It Do?

Uric acid is a byproduct of the chemical breakdown of purines, which are found in many foods. It is produced when the body metabolizes protein. Uric acid is eliminated from the body through the kidneys and urine.

Uric acid is a natural antioxidant and helps to protect cells from damage. It also helps to break down and remove toxins from the body.

What Causes Uric Acid to Become Dangerous?

When there is too much uric acid in the blood, it can build up and form crystals in the body. High uric acid concentration can lead to uric acid crystals forming in the joints, causing gout.

A high level of the uric acid crystal in long term can also be dangerous for the heart and kidneys. It can cause kidney stones and lead to chronic kidney disease. Uric acid can also make plaque deposits in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Uric Acid Levels: What Is Normal?

Normal uric acid levels are different for men and women.

Gender	​Male	Female
Uric acid range	​4.0-8.5 mg/dL or 0.24-0.51 mmol/L	2.7-7.3 mg/dL or 0.16-0.43 mmol/L

Ways To Reduce Uric Acid Naturally Without Drugs

Lifestyle modification

• Drink plenty of fluids

• Exercise regularly

• Lose weight if you're overweight

• Limit your intake of high-purine foods

• Avoid alcohol

Taking a supplement to manage uric acid levels

Uric Acid Supplements in Malaysia: The Comparison!

There are several different types of uric acid supplements available in Malaysia. Here are some comparisons of popular uric acid supplements in the market:

1. Alkalizing salt

Alkalizing salt can help to reduce uric acid levels by alkalizing the body. This means that it helps to balance pH levels and makes the body less acidic.

​Pros:	​Cons:
In powder form. User friendly for those doesn't like to swallow tablets.	High dosage: 1 to 2 sachets, 3-4 times daily
Nice taste.	​According to the prescribing information, may not be suitable for kidney and heart problem patients to take long-term.
	​With high sodium content, users are advised to take a low-sodium diet while taking the course of alkalizing salt treatment.

Current alkalizing salt products available in Malaysia's market:

• Ural effervescent granules

• Clearogout

2. Celery

Celery is a diuretic that can help to lower uric acid levels in the blood. Diuretics work by increasing the amount of water and sodium that are expelled from the body through urination. This helps to reduce the amount of uric acid in the blood.

​Pros:	​Cons:
​By removing excess uric acid through the urine through its diuretic effects. Some gout patients can get fast gout relief.	Since celery is a natural diuretic. Therefore people with kidney problems should monitor their celery intake, as excessive consumption might put extra strain on their kidneys.
​May be beneficial for high blood pressure patients. Celery contains a phytochemical called phthalides. It relaxes the tissues of the artery walls to increase blood flow and reduce blood pressure.	Some people are allergic to celery. Allergic reactions can range from skin rashes to anaphylaxis.
	May feel disturbing by frequent toilet visits.

Current celery supplements available in Malaysia's market:

• Natural Factor celery seed extract

• Bio-life celery seed extract

• Blackmore celery

• Vitahealth celery plus

3. Tart Cherry

Tart cherries are a natural source of anthocyanins, which are potent antioxidants. In addition to their antioxidant properties, anthocyanins have been shown to help reduce inflammation in gout.

​Pros:	Cons:
Available in liquid, powder and capsule form.	The inconsistent result on the effectiveness of tart cherries in reducing the uric acid level in gout patients. This can be due to it helping reduce the inflammation and not really reducing serum uric acid levels.
Some studies show tart cherry aid in better sleep.

Current tart cherry supplements available in Malaysia's market:

• Lakewood pure tart cherry juice

• Gouch tart cherry plus extract powder & bromelain sachet

• Solaray, Tart Cherry Fruit Extract

4. Terminalia bellerica (Ayuric®)

Terminalia bellerica is a commonly used Ayurvedic herb in India and is one of the components of a very popular product on the market, called Triphala.

Though you may have never heard of Triphala, It’s a staple in traditional Ayurvedic medicine in India that has been used as a healing remedy for over 1,000 years. Some common usage include: heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and premature ageing

Ayuric® is the trade name of a tannin-rich extract, derived from the edible fruit of the Terminalia bellerica tree, it is thought to inhibit xanthine oxidase, an enzyme involved in the synthesis of uric acid.

A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled human clinical trial recently confirmed Terminalia bellerica extract's dose-dependent action in lowering uric acid levels in the blood.

The study showed that 500 mg Terminalia bellerica extract, taken 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:
Undergo human clinical study proved its effectiveness in reducing uric acid levels.	​It may take 2-3 months to reach the optimal result.
The study does a comparison with febuxostat, a common uric acid lowering medicine used for gout patients.
Identified mechanism of action, its potent tannins appear to inhibit an enzyme (xanthine oxidase) involved in the synthesis of uric acid.
​An ayurvedic herb that has been used for over 1000 years with a good safety profile.

Current Terminalia bellerica (Ayuric®) supplement available in Malaysia's market:

• The PrimAGE CrystaGuard

Conclusion

It is evident that there are many different brands and types of uric acid supplements available in Malaysia. It can be difficult to decide which one to choose. By providing some research and your personal reading of the reviews, it is possible for you to find the right supplement for you.

Related read:

1. Is Gout and Osteoarthritis Interrelated?

2. CrystaGuard - triple herbs combo (Ayuric®, Boswellia & Turmeric)

3. 6 Strange Gout Facts You Probably Didn't Know

Medical Disclaimer

The contents of this article are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor, pharmacist or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.

Can Melatonin Be Bought In Malaysia?

Melatonin, a naturally occurring hormone produced by the brain, is often used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. Unfortunately, melatonin can be difficult to obtain in some countries, such as Malaysia. There are several online retailers that sell melatonin, but buyers should be aware that some products may not be effective and may have side effects.

What is melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone that is produced by the pineal gland, which is located in the brain.

The primary role of melatonin is to regulate the body's circadian rhythm, which is the natural cycle of day and night that controls many aspects of our daily lives.

Melatonin levels naturally rise at night when it is dark and fall during the day when it is light. In some countries, melatonin is available over the counter in both pill and liquid form to help regulate sleep patterns or to treat conditions such as jet lag or insomnia.

[Read Next: Is melatonin a sleeping pill?]

What are the benefits of having a healthy melatonin level?

There are many benefits to having a healthy melatonin level. One of the most important benefits is that it can help you get a good night's sleep. Melatonin helps control your body's natural clock or circadian rhythm. It plays a role in the timing of your sleep-wake cycle. When your melatonin levels are low, you may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.

Another benefit of having a healthy melatonin level is that it can help protect your brain from damage. Studies have shown that people with low melatonin levels are more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Melatonin may also help protect against stroke and other types of brain damage.

Additionally, research suggests that melatonin may play a role in preventing cancer, heart disease, and strengthening immunity.

[Read Next: Your Body Clock Disruption Can Suck the Life Out of You!]

Is Melatonin legal in Malaysia?

Although melatonin is available over-the-counter in some countries or even can be bought through online channels, it is a prescription drug in Malaysia. Most pharmacies in Malaysia do not keep melatonin, since any health supplement products sold need to be registered under the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA), Ministry of Health Malaysia. The use of melatonin for insomnia is not approved by the Malaysian Ministry of Health as it is considered a hormone and not a supplement.

Side effects of melatonin

Most people know melatonin as a natural sleep aid. What many don't know is that it can also cause side effects, some of which are common.

These side effects include but are not limited to: headache, dizziness, nausea, and irritability. In most cases, these side effects are mild and go away within a few days. However, if they persist or become bothersome, it's best to speak with a doctor.

Natural Melatonin alternative in Malaysia

There is some evidence that corn leaf extract can be a natural alternative to melatonin supplements. Maizinol is a patented ingredient derived from Zea mays corn leaf extract and is a natural alternative to melatonin.

This patented corn leaf extract works through the melatonin pathway. It increases the body's own production of melatonin. Also, the compound structure has similarities to melatonin, so it’s also binding to melatonin receptors. The innovator has done a clinical study showing the ingredient significantly increased deep-sleep time by 30 minutes when taken before bed. Other than that, it also showed a 30% reduction in cortisol levels compared to a placebo with a saliva test the next morning. [source]

In short, Maizinol corn leaf extract helps to improve sleep quality and duration, and it also has anti-anxiety effects. It does not cause any next-day drowsiness like synthetic melatonin in consumers. This product is available in Malaysia's pharmacy stores under the brand name "The PrimAGE ReszGuard".

Conclusion

Melatonin is a prescription item in Malaysia, and it is not readily available in most pharmacy stores due to legality and registration issue. Although some can get it through online channels, it is important to consult with a doctor before taking melatonin, as it may not be appropriate for everyone.

Finally, synthetic melatonin is a hormone molecule by itself, it should take into consideration its safeness if intended to take it for extended periods of time, and it is important to discontinue use if any adverse effects are experienced. Natural corn leaf extract, which aids the body in regulating its own melatonin levels, maybe the best alternative.

Related read:

1. Realign your melatonin level with ReszGuard!

2. How does Melatonin Influence Your Body's Internal Clock?

3. Coronasomnia - How is the pandemic wrecking our sleep?

4. Do you know anxiety medication increase the risk of having Alzheimer's disease?

Saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil: a powerful combination?

Saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil both have been shown to be powerful ingredients for supporting men's health. Studies have shown that saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil can help to improve symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), such as difficulty urinating and pain during urination.

Saw Palmetto: What is it, and what does it do?

Saw palmetto, also known as Serenoa repens, is a low shrubby palm native to North America, where it grows in pine woods and among sandy dunes in South Carolina, Louisiana, Georgia, and Florida's coastal wetlands. Its partially dried, ripe fruits have long been used to support healthy prostate and bladder function in traditional American medicine. Here are 5 promising saw palmetto benefits and uses:

1. Improve urinary tract function

2. May prevent hair loss

3. Support prostate health

4. Decrease inflammation

5. Help regulate testosterone levels

Pumpkin seed oil: All you need to know about this magical oil!

You might think of pumpkin as a festive fall decoration or an ingredient in the perfect pie, but it has other applications. Pumpkin seed oil, for example, has some health advantages.

Pumpkin seed oil is said to improve urinary and cardiovascular health. It's high in vitamins and anti-inflammatory agents, as well as linoleic and oleic acid. Here's what you need to know about the potential health benefits of this oil:

• Effects on hair and skin

• Effects on heart health

• Effects on prostate health

• Effects on urinary health

• Effects on menopause

Can I take saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil together?

According to a 2014 study, pumpkin seed oil and a combination of pumpkin seed oil and saw palmetto oil may help with the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). According to the researchers, pumpkin seed oil and saw palmetto oil are safe and effective alternative treatments for BPH.

How Saw Palmetto and Pumpkin Seed Oil Can Boost Your Health?

Both saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil help to promote prostate health, improve urinary function, and reduce the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). They also help to improve overall sexual function and fertility in men and can be beneficial in preventing male pattern baldness.

[Read Next: 7 tips for better prostate health]

Do Saw Palmetto and Pumpkin Seed Oil Cause Any Side Effects?

Some people who take saw palmetto or pumpkin seed oil supplements experience side effects such as headaches, nausea, or diarrhoea. However, most people do not have any problems when taking these supplements.

Lycopene: Another Great Nutrient for Men's Health that You Do Not Want to Miss Out

Although saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil are both excellent nutrients for men's prostate health. You may still want to include Lycopene in your daily diet.

A recent study published in the British Journal of Nutrition indicates that lycopene, a nutrient found in red tomatoes, may also reduce the risk of prostate cancer in men. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. In addition to reducing the risk of prostate cancer, lycopene has also been shown to improve heart health and protect against other types of cancer.

The Ultimate Men's Health Combo: Saw Palmetto, Pumpkin Seed Oil, and Lycopene

In conclusion, saw palmetto, pumpkin seed oil and lycopene are all great ingredients to look for in a men's health supplement. They can help improve prostate health, support heart health, and promote healthy blood circulation. Taking a supplement such as The PrimAGE ProGuardADV that contains all three of these ingredients could be the ultimate way to improve your overall health!

Related Read:

1. Patented Sabalselect® saw palmetto extract from Italy supports healthy prostate function.

2. Prostate pain: More common than you think!

3. Top 6 Signs and Symptoms that You May Have a Prostate Disorder

4. Is Nocturia Robbing You of Your Sleep?