Ways to Reduce High Uric Acid: Do you feel severe pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints of your feet or fingers as soon as you wake up in the morning? Are you having trouble walking? If this is happening again and again, do not ignore it as mere fatigue. Increased uric acid can also be a reason for these problems. Uric acid is produced in the body as a waste product, which under normal circumstances is removed by the kidneys through urine. But when its level increases or the body is not able to expel it in sufficient quantity, it can accumulate in the joints in the form of crystals and cause problems like gout.
Along with medicines, diet and lifestyle also play an important role in controlling uric acid. According to Noida-based dietitian Khushboo Sharma, reducing the intake of some purine-rich foods and those high in sugar can be beneficial for people with high uric acid.
Why does uric acid increase?
Uric acid is formed by the breakdown of purines in the body. Purines are found naturally in many foods. Under normal circumstances, the kidneys remove excess uric acid. But if its production increases in the body or the kidneys are not able to expel it in sufficient quantity, its level in the blood may increase. Due to high uric acid for a long time, some people may have problems like gout attacks, joint pain and swelling.
What things should be excluded from the diet?
1. Red Meat and Organ Meat: Red meat like beef, mutton and especially organ meat like liver and kidney contain high amount of purines. Excessive consumption of these can increase the risk of uric acid and gout. If your uric acid is increased then consult a doctor or dietician about limiting their intake.
2. Keep distance from alcohol: If uric acid is increased then consumption of alcohol can increase the problem. Beer in particular is linked to the risk of gout. Alcohol can affect the metabolism and excretion of uric acid in the body. Therefore, people with high uric acid or gout are advised to avoid alcohol.
3. Sweet and sugary drinks: Regular consumption of soft drinks, sweetened packaged drinks and drinks high in fructose can also affect uric acid levels. Therefore, instead of these, plain water and drinks without added sugar can be a better option.
Water and lifestyle are also important
Drinking enough water, keeping weight within a healthy range, and getting regular physical activity can be helpful in managing uric acid. However, diet is not the same for every person. Some people may suffer from high uric acid even without symptoms, while some may show symptoms of gout.