Increased uric acid is synonymous with gout, just abstaining from meat, seafood or fasting to lower the index are common but not entirely correct beliefs.
Only older people have increased uric acid
Increased uric acid not only occurs in the elderly but can also appear in young people, especially those who are overweight, obese, sedentary or regularly eat a lot of red meat, organs, use sugary drinks and alcohol.
High uric acid means gout
Gout occurs when urate crystals form and deposit in the joint, causing inflammation. Meanwhile, increased uric acid in the blood only reflects higher than normal uric acid levels in the blood. A person may have high uric acid but has never had a gout attack.
Just abstaining from red meat and seafood is enough
Red meat and some seafood are rich in purines, but not the only factor affecting uric acid. Animal organs, thick bone broth, beer, alcohol and high-fructose drinks can also increase uric acid production or reduce kidney excretion.
Everyone should build a balanced diet, limiting risky foods instead of eliminating too many food groups.
Fasting helps lower uric acid
Prolonged fasting or weight loss too quickly can increase tissue breakdown, and the process of creating the ketone on an empty stomach can hinder the kidneys from excreting uric acid. Weight loss should be done gradually, combining healthy eating and regular exercise.
No joint pain, no monitoring needed
Prolonged high uric acid can increase the risk of urate crystal formation, kidney stones and affect kidney function in some cases. However, not everyone with high uric acid needs to take medication. Patients should be assessed by a doctor for risk, monitored periodically and adjusted lifestyle appropriately.
Drinking plenty of water will bring uric acid back to normal
Drinking enough water helps the kidneys excrete uric acid better and reduce the risk of kidney stones, but it is not the only solution. If the body produces too much uric acid or the excretion capacity is reduced, just drinking water will not be enough. Controlling weight, diet, underlying diseases and taking medication when indicated still play an important role.
