Managing Rising Uric Acid Levels Through Diet and Lifestyle Changes

Uric acid problems are rapidly increasing these days. The rise in uric acid in the body is due to a poor lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits. 

According to health experts, uric acid is formed when a substance called purine breaks down in our body. Normally, the kidneys filter it out of the body, but when its level increases, it starts accumulating as crystals in the joints, causing unbearable pain, swelling, and other issues in the joints. 

Uric acid problems can be controlled by adopting the right diet along with medication.

• What should uric acid patients avoid eating?

According to dietitians, uric acid patients should first stay away from foods high in purine content. This includes red meat, organ meats (internal organs/liver, etc.), and seafood. You can choose to stay away from non-vegetarian food for a few weeks if you wish. Besides this, sugary beverages like soda, cold drinks, and packaged juices rapidly increase uric acid levels. 

Alcohol and beer consumption should be completely stopped, as they inhibit the process of uric acid excretion from the body. One should also avoid junk food and bakery products containing trans fats.

• What types of food are beneficial to consume?

According to dietitians, fiber-rich foods should be eaten to reduce uric acid. Oats, porridge, brown rice, and green leafy vegetables are excellent options. However, spinach and mushrooms should not be consumed. 

Additionally, fruits rich in Vitamin C, such as oranges, lemons, kiwis, and amla, help excrete uric acid from the body. Antioxidant-rich fruits like cherries and berries are helpful in reducing joint swelling. Low-fat dairy products such as skimmed milk and yogurt are also considered safe and beneficial.

• Drinking 8-10 glasses of water is also essential

According to experts, water plays a significant role in controlling uric acid. Patients with uric acid must drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water throughout the day. 

Drinking an adequate amount of water allows the kidneys to properly dilute uric acid and excrete it through urine. Coconut water and unsweetened lemon water also greatly help in keeping the body hydrated and maintaining normal uric acid levels. 

Furthermore, at least 30 minutes of exercise or walking daily helps control weight and reduces uric acid.

(Disclaimer: This advice-based content has been prepared from online sources for general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion.)