Uric acid is a natural byproduct of the normal metabolism of purines, which are found in most foods. Every person has uric acid in the bloodstream, but in some individuals uric acid levels can become chronically elevated and accumulate in the joints. Extremely high levels of serum uric acid can cause it to crystallize into tiny spikes and cause joint pain, in a condition known as gout, which is a form of arthritis.
Uric Acid and Gout
The causes of elevated uric acid are usually because the kidneys fail to excrete it effectively. Many times the reason for high uric acid levels is unknown. Several factors can be to blame, including genetics, diet, gender, consuming excessive alcohol, weight, toxicity from the environment and some medicines. Certain medical conditions are known to be associated with gout, such as diabetes. Managing gout aims to reduce uric acid production as well as to diminish the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints.
Meats, Shellfish and Grain
Diet modification is a recommended way to reduce uric acid production. This means eating foods low in purine content to limit the formation of uric acid. Certain foods are commonly associated with high purine levels, such as all red meats and shellfish such as lobsters and shrimp. You should completely eliminate these from your diet. Grain products also can produce high uric acid levels and should be avoided.
High-Fructose Foods
High-fructose foods are also associated with high uric acid production and gout formation. It is best to refrain from eating particularly high-fructose foods like dates, apples, cherries, plums, peaches, prunes, grapes and pears. Avoid all high-fructose sweetened drinks such as enriched fruit juices. Other foods generally rich in high-fructose corn syrup are ice creams, baked products, syrups and candy, all of which should be avoided.
Alcohol
Do not consume alcohol in any form if you have or are prone to high uric acid levels or if you suffer from gout. While alcohol does not normally contain purines, it interferes with the body's chemical processes that try to rid the blood of uric acid. Eliminating beer from the diet is particularly important, since it is an alcoholic beverage and also is made from grain.
Member Comments