Overweight, obesity and metabolic syndrome often go hand in hand with the risk of increased uric acid levels and gout. Gradual weight loss can contribute to improving uric acid levels in overweight and obese people. However, mistakes when losing weight can have the opposite effect.
Comparison table: Effects of weight loss methods on uric acid
| Weight loss method | Effects on uric acid index |
|---|---|
Why does weight loss so quickly increase uric acid?
Losing weight too quickly through methods such as prolonged fasting, extreme energy reduction, or applying an unbalanced diet can negatively impact the body.
When the body falls into a state of severe energy deprivation, the process of tissue breakdown and formation of ketones will increase, contributing to affecting uric acid in the kidney excretion process.
Because of these mechanisms, some people may experience temporary increased uric acid levels, or gout attacks during a period of rapid weight loss.
Fasting or excessive energy cutbacks
Rapid weight loss, prolonged fasting or extreme diets can change metabolism, cause dehydration and fluctuate uric acid levels. However, it should not be assumed that everyone who fasts has increased uric acid or gout attacks; direct evidence of fasting and gout attacks is limited.
Eating too much animal protein to replace starch
Eating enough protein" does not mean eating a lot of meat. A diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, if mainly based on internal organs, red meat, thick meat broth, or some seafood, may not be suitable for people with gout.
Drink too little water when on a diet or exercising
Dehydration can be a factor that increases the risk of gout attacks in some people. However, a fixed amount of water should not be given to everyone, because people with heart failure, kidney failure or fluid retention need to follow a doctor's specific instructions.
Weight loss guide to help control uric acid
According to recommendations from experts, overweight or obese people with gout should undergo weight loss, but need to follow a sustainable roadmap instead of fasting or extreme dieting.
A more appropriate and safe way is to reduce total energy levels in moderation. Along with that, patients can maintain sufficient protein supply, increase green vegetable consumption, prioritize low-processed foods and combine exercise suitable to their health condition.
The information in the article is for reference only, not for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should talk directly to your doctor for accurate and appropriate advice to your health condition.
Q&A corner: Weight loss and uric acid control
How should obese people with gout eat to lose weight safely?
According to experts, the best way is to reduce energy moderately, maintain enough good protein, eat more green vegetables, choose less processed foods and combine exercise depending on your health condition.
