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Uric acid is a waste product left behind when the body breaks down purine, which is an organic compound present in many foods. High levels of uric acid in the blood lead to a condition known as hyperuricemia. Under normal circumstances the uric acid present in the body is carried in the blood to the kidneys.
From the kidneys, uric acid is eliminated out of the body in urine. Although uric acid is not harmful when present in normal amounts, people suffering from hyperuricemia may develop kidney stones, gout and in severe cases, kidney failure. In some cases, uric acid is also linked to the development of other conditions like heart disease or high blood pressure.
A person may experience an increased level of uric acid either because their body is producing an excess amount of uric acid, or because their body is unable to efficiently eliminate the uric acid being produced. Treating the underlying cause will help you to get rid of this condition. Uric acid levels can be controlled effectively by following a healthier lifestyle and dietary habits. You may use these tips in order to control the level of uric acid being produced by your body.
- Avoid consuming red meats and other foods that are rich in purine content. Apart from red meats, certain vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower and asparagus contain purine too; however, these are not as high as those contained by meat and meat products. However, avoiding these foods will prove beneficial in lowering your uric acid level.
- Consuming a diet rich in complex carbohydrates will also prove beneficial in reducing your uric acid levels. Vegetables like red bell peppers, red cabbage, spinach, tomatoes, boiled potatoes and green leafy vegetables are some examples of foods that are effective in reducing uric acid levels. Cherries, blueberries and strawberries, pineapples, bananas and oranges are some fruits that a patient experiencing high uric acid levels should consume.
- Alcohol has a very high purine content. Among the alcoholic beverages, beer has the highest purine content and should be strictly avoided.
- You must drink plenty of water, as this helps in flushing out the uric acid from the kidneys, in the form of urine.
- Exercising is very important when dealing with uric acid problems. Try indulging in light exercises everyday in order to get rid of your uric acid problem. Brisk walking and yoga are also very effective in this regard.
- You can also make a tonic by mixing one teaspoon of organic apple cider vinegar with one teaspoon of honey in order to reduce your uric acid level.
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