High uric acid levels are detected when the body makes too much uric acid or is unable to get rid of enough of it, or if both occur together. When uric acid builds up in the blood, it leads to a condition called hyperuricemia, which can eventually lead to gout – painful arthritis. Prachi Shah, Consulting Nutritionist & Clinical Dietician, Founder, Health Habitat, shares, “The risk of hyperuricemia is associated with heart disorders, kidney disorders and diabetes. Joint pain is a complaint as increased uric acid builds up in crystals And we have swelling and pain around our joints.”
Have high uric acid? Avoid these foods and drinks
Like most diseases, diet is the key to controlling the problem. “When it comes to dietary changes it is best when you avoid purine-rich foods. Simply put, purine-rich foods will increase the level of uric acid in the blood,” says Shah.
So if you have high uric acid, here are the top 4 foods and drinks you should avoid, according to Prachi Shah:
Foods high in sugar: Readymade fruit juices, carbonated drinks and drinks with added syrups like honey or fructose corn syrup should be avoided. They can trigger the condition and fructose produces urate as a by-product in our body, which worsens the condition. Artificial sources of fructose put you at risk instead of natural sources like fruits. Refined carbohydrates in excess also contribute to worsening the condition. Hence, it is best to avoid breads, pastries, cakes, cookies, etc.
Also read: High Blood Sugar: 7 Low Glycemic Index Fruits That Diabetics Can Enjoy Without Worries
Meat: Meats are a major source of protein and they will increase the level of uric acid. Organ meats are not tough when you have hyperuricemia. Consumption of liver, kidney, heart and even brain can also increase the risk of uric acid. Red meat like lamb, pork etc should also be avoided.
sea foodSome types of fish contain high levels of purines, such as trout, anchovies, haddock, tuna, ocean perch, mackerel, sardines. Seafood other than fish should also be avoided for the same reason – crabs, prawns, scallops.
Liquor: Purines are high in alcohol, especially beer, because the high yeast content in them increases the production of uric acid.
“It is always said that moderation is the key, but in this case, it is beneficial if you strictly abstain from the above foods and beverages! Some vegetables and fruits are also high in purines but they are high in uric acid.” The way animal food sources do,” Shah says.
The dietician further adds that avoiding certain trigger foods will help you manage the problem, but overall lifestyle changes will help you eliminate symptoms. Regular exercise is as important as taking medicines. Shah says that in most cases, hyperuricemia corrects itself with weight loss. So, know your underlying cause (if any) and work closely with a qualified nutritionist and doctor, she advises.