High uric acid levels are becoming a common health problem, appearing in many younger people than before.
This condition often progresses silently but can cause severe joint pain, prolonged swelling and inflammation, and even kidney damage if not controlled promptly.
Uric acid forms when the body breaks down purines, natural compounds found in many familiar foods.
Normally, uric acid will dissolve in the blood and be excreted through urine.
However, when the body produces too much or the kidneys do not excrete it in time, uric acid will accumulate, crystallizing into sharp crystals deposited in the joints, causing inflammation and pain.
According to Dr. Shivram, senior consultant urologist at Apollo Spectra Hospital ( Jaipur, India), prolonged increase in blood uric acid not only causes gout but also silently damages the kidneys, limits mobility and seriously affects the quality of life if not treated early.
Diet plays a key role in controlling uric acid.
Dr. Shivram said that uric acid spikes are often directly related to daily eating habits.
In many cases, adjusting the menu appropriately can significantly reduce the risk of gout outbreaks without taking medication.
Here are 8 popular food groups that people with high uric acid should limit or avoid to protect joints and kidneys.
1. Red meat
Beef, Lamb and pork are high in purines. Eating regularly increases the risk of gout and arthritis. Replace with lean protein such as poultry or fish low in purines.
2. Animal organs
The liver, kidneys, and brain have very high purine content. Just a small amount can trigger gout attacks in sensitive people.
3. Some types of seafood
Shrimp, sardines, anchovies and shellfish are common causes of increased uric acid. Fish such as salmon or cod can be eaten in moderation.
4. Processed foods and fast foods
Fried foods, snacks, and fast foods increase inflammation and metabolic disorders, indirectly making uric acid control more difficult.
5. Alcohol
Alcohol reduces the ability to excrete uric acid, especially beer because it contains both alcohol and purines. Gout patients are advised to avoid beer completely when the disease is prone to recurrence.
6. Eat too many lentils and some types of beans
Although plant-based, large-scale consumption can aggravate symptoms in some people. Portion control is an important factor.
7. Sugary drinks
soft drinks and fructose-containing drinks directly increase uric acid production. Research shows that this is one of the leading causes of increased uric acid in the blood.
8. Fatty dairy products
Whole milk, cottage cheese, and ice cream can increase inflammation. Low-fat dairy products are often a safer choice.
Experts recommend that, in addition to avoiding high-risk foods, people with high uric acid should drink enough water, maintain a reasonable weight, eat a balanced diet and check their health regularly to prevent long-term complications.
(The article is for reference only, not a replacement for professional advice. Always consult a doctor or medical professional if you have any questions).
