Uric acid cannot be neutralized in the body because it is the natural breakdown product of purines. Purines are found in almost all foods we eat, even in minuscule amounts. However it is possible to significantly reduce uric acid production by eating foods that are very low in purines. This can reduce some of the consequences of uric acid accumulation, including gout.
Purines and Uric Acid
Purines are part of the structure of most foods we eat. When purines are metabolized the resultant waste product is uric acid. Uric acid enters the blood stream and travels to the kidneys. The kidneys are specifically designed to excrete uric acid and other waste material in the urine while keeping the balance of water and electrolytes within a normal range. However, there are conditions where the kidneys fail to get rid of uric acid. When this occurs the uric acid can start to accumulate in the blood and result in serious problems.
Uric Acid and Gout
As the kidneys allow the blood to accumulate high levels of uric acid certain pathological processes occur. The uric acid tends to concentrate in the joints, especially of the toes and feet. This by itself doesn't cause harm, unless the uric acid concentration increases. This can result in formation of mineralized uric acid, where tiny crystals become lodged in the joints. As the crystals grow with increasing serum uric levels, the crystals impinge on the sensitive tissues inside the joint, causing the severe pain that characterizes gout.
Foods to Beware
Since gout and elevated uric acid are the result of purine metabolism, you should steer clear of foods known to be high in purine concentrations. These include red meats such as beef and lamb. Shellfish are also are rich in purines so you should avoid eating lobster, shrimp, scallops, clams and crabs. Other foods not rich in purines but associated with the risk of gout are sucrose and fructose rich foods. Therefore, avoid eating fruits such as plums, pears, apples, grapes and prunes, and sugary cakes and cookies, fruit punch and ice cream. Refined grain products such as enriched white bread and pasta should be avoided; however, whole grains may reduce gout symptoms.
Good Foods Choices
A diet low in purine content is the best choice for gout sufferers or those prone to gout in order to keep serum uric acid levels at a minimum. Make sure to eat foods such as fresh vegetables including lettuce, spinach, corn, tomatoes, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower. Most beans and nuts are also good choices. Colorful fruits such as bananas and tangerines are also excellent. A diet centered on fat-free or low-fat dairy products such as cottage cheese, yogurt, eggs and soy products should be followed to neutralize uric acid.
Alcohol Warning
Alcohol by itself does not contain purines. However, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases says alcohol can impair a kidney's ability to get rid of the blood's excess uric acid. This is why the institute advises persons with gout or those prone to gout limit their alcohol consumption, including liquors and beer. Drinking beer in excess is especially bad if you have gout since it contains alcohol made from grains, which further escalates the risk of gout.
