Lowering Uric Acid Through Diet
High level of uric acid leads to joint pain and gout. If left untreated for a long time it can cause joint deformation and kidney damage. After metabolism of certain chemicals, known as purines, the waste that is left behind is called uric acid.
In normal circumstances, uric acid is flashed out of our body by our kidneys. Traces of uric acid in the blood doesn’t cause any harm. However, high level of uric acid can be harmful.
Foods high in uric acid
To reduce uric acid level in the blood, we should avoid foods containing purines, which break up during metabolism to form uric acid. Red meats, including mutton, beef and pork have the highest content of purine, among known food sources.
The method used in processing bacon, makes it a rich source of purine. Seafood should also be avoided by people suffering from high uric acid problems. White meats, such as chicken and ham, contain low amounts of purines.
They could be consumed in moderate amount by people with uric acid problem. Foods, which have yeast as one of its ingredients, should be avoided to normalize uric acid level. People with high uric acid level should therefore avoid bread, beer and alcoholic beverages. Caffeine should also be avoided to help lower uric acid level. Peas and beans also contain traces of purines. They should be consumed in limited amount.
Foods for lowering uric acid
To help your kidney to eliminate uric acid from your body efficiently, consume eight to ten glasses of water everyday. To ensure adequate fluid intake, also include fruit and vegetable juices, soups, tea and milk in your regular diet.
Lemon juice is particularly good for lowering joint pains caused by high uric acid level. Black cherry juice can also reduce uric acid level. Fruits, especially bananas and apples are also good. Flax seeds, hemp seeds, and pumpkin seeds are also beneficial for the body. According to studies, decaffeinated coffee can help to reduce uric acid level.
