Uric acid is a natural compound in the body formed due to the breakdown of purines. Purines are substances found in our body’s cells and food. Under normal conditions, uric acid dissolves in the blood and is excreted by the kidneys as urine. However, when the amount of uric acid in the body increases, it accumulates in the blood and forms crystals in the joints, leading to gout and other problems.
The causes of high uric acid and various effective ways to reduce it
1. Main causes of increased uric acid level
Elevated uric acid levels can have many causes, including unhealthy eating habits, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, drinking less water, certain medications, and genetic factors. Certain diseases, such as kidney disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, can also lead to elevated uric acid levels.
2. Dietary habits and uric acid levels
Dietary habits play an important role in uric acid levels. Foods rich in purines, such as red meat, seafood, and alcohol, can raise uric acid levels. Similarly, high-fructose drinks and sugary foods also lead to increased uric acid levels.
3. Body weight and obesity
Obesity is a major factor in increasing uric acid levels. Excess body weight puts stress on the kidneys and makes it difficult to excrete uric acid, which in turn increases uric acid levels.
4. Dehydration
Dehydration makes it difficult for the body to excrete uric acid. When dehydrated, the kidneys are unable to excrete uric acid properly, resulting in elevated uric acid levels.
5. Genetic factors
Genetic factors can also cause elevated uric acid levels in some people. If someone in the family has a history of gout or high uric acid, there is a possibility that others may also suffer from this problem.
6. Use of certain drugs
Certain medications, such as diuretics, antibiotics, and chemotherapy drugs, can cause uric acid levels to rise. These drugs affect the excretion of uric acid by the kidneys.
Effective Ways to Lower Uric Acid
1. Choosing the right diet
Choosing a balanced and proper diet is essential to control uric acid levels. Avoid foods rich in purines, such as red meat, seafood, and alcohol. Instead, choose a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains that help lower uric acid levels.
2. Eat fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables help reduce uric acid levels in the body. Cherries, strawberries, blueberries, and other berries are particularly effective in lowering uric acid. Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli, also help lower uric acid levels.
3. Coffee consumption
Research has shown that coffee consumption helps lower uric acid levels. The caffeine in coffee lowers uric acid levels as well as reduces the risk of gout attacks.
4. Drink plenty of water
Drinking water helps to lower uric acid levels. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps the kidneys excrete uric acid better, which lowers uric acid levels.
5. Keep weight under control
Keeping weight under control helps to lower uric acid levels. Excess body weight puts stress on the kidneys, which in turn increases uric acid levels. Losing weight can lower uric acid levels.
6. Exercise
Regular exercise improves the body’s metabolism and helps reduce uric acid levels. Light exercise, such as walking, jogging, or cycling, can help keep uric acid levels under control.
Summary
Elevated uric acid levels can have many causes, including unhealthy dietary habits, obesity, use of certain medications, and genetic factors. Choosing the right diet, drinking plenty of water, exercising, keeping weight under control, and avoiding alcohol are essential to lowering uric acid levels. In addition, some natural remedies, such as lemon juice, consumption of cherries, and consumption of turmeric and ginger, are also helpful in lowering uric acid levels. Remember that it is important to consult a doctor to keep uric acid levels under control.