Purines are natural substances found in plants and animals. In your diet they come from foods such as beans, peas, mackerel, beer and wine. When your body breaks down these foods, a waste product called uric acid is created. According to MedlinePlus, under normal circumstances, uric acid is excreted through your urine. However, under some circumstances it can build up in your body, which can cause gout -- a form of arthritis.
Normal Levels
Normal uric acid levels vary depending on the laboratory; however, according to MedlinePlus, normal ranges are from 3.0 to 7.0 mg/dL. Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that filter your blood. When you consume purine foods, the uric acid created dissolves in your blood and is sent to your kidneys, where it is filtered out.
High Levels
Hyperuricemia is when your uric acid levels are higher than normal. High uric acid levels do not always cause problems. However, you can develop kidney stones, gout or kidney failure. According to MayoClinic.com, high uric acid levels may appear prior to chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure and heart disease. However, it is unclear if high uric acid levels cause these conditions.
Gout
Gout is a painful arthritic condition that develops when uric acid builds up in your joints. It is characterized by sudden, severe pain and tenderness. You are at an increased gout risk if you are male, however the risk increases for women after menopause, according to MayoClinic.com. Gout usually affects your large toe joint, but can affect your feet, ankles, knees, wrists and hands.
Keeping Uric Acid Levels in Normal Range
If your uric acid levels are above normal, your doctor may recommend a low uric acid diet. Your doctor can provide a list of high uric acid forming foods to avoid, which is measured per 100 g of food. For example, foods that produce the highest uric acid amount include brewers yeast, organ meat, tuna fish and anchovies. Chronic alcohol consumption can also cause high uric acid levels. Limit alcohol if this is a factor.
