Uric acid is a natural element produced in our body. When the body digests some food items, especially things like meat and fish which contain an element called purine, uric acid is formed from it. Usually it reaches the kidneys through blood and then goes out with urine. If this uric acid starts getting produced in large quantities then that problem is called Hyperuricemia. Due to increase in uric acid, we may suffer from arthritis, joint pain, kidney stones or heart problems in future.
Reasons for increased uric acid
The main reason for increase in uric acid is considered to be excessive breakdown of a protein called purine in the body and inability of the kidneys to filter it properly. This is mainly caused by eating red meat, sea-food, alcohol, drinking less water, obesity, high blood pressure, excess iron in the body, high glucose in the blood or diabetes. Uric acid increases rapidly due to excessive consumption of alcohol and beer and sometimes certain types of medicines (such as diuretics) can also be the cause.
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Symptoms of increased uric acid
Increase in uric acid causes sudden severe pain in the joints, swelling and redness in the big toe (gout), stiffness in walking and frequent kidney stones. Apart from this, lumps in the joints (tophi), burning sensation during urination and feeling of constant weakness in the muscles are also its symptoms. Fatigue, weakness, feeling fever and frequent thirst can also be the reason for increase in uric acid.
What should be the diet?
If uric acid increases, adopt a diet low in purine. Avoid red meat, organ meat, seafood, alcohol, sweets and some pulses (arhar, lentils, urad) which are high in purines. Instead, include Vitamin C-rich fruits (cherries, lemons, oranges), low-fat dairy products, plenty of water and fiber-rich vegetables, which help reduce uric acid. Also consume whole grains like oats, brown rice, barley. Coffee/green tea in limited quantity can also be beneficial.
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