Diet & Uric acid

Uric acid is a natural waste product which is caused by the digestion of foods that contain purines. The purines are organic compounds found in various foods and tissues.

Uric acid is produced mainly in the liver and, to a lesser extent in the small intestine and the kidney, while having produced is excreted by the kidney (2/3) and the intestine (1/3). High levels of uric acid in the body (or hyperuricemia) may result in health problems, such as gout, kidney stones and pain in the joints.

Hyperuricemia is defined as the concentration of uric acid in the serum that exceeds the limit of solubility (>6,8 mg/dl, limit of crystallisation of uric monosodium)

Men > 7,0 mg/dl (413μmol/l)

Women >6,0 mg/dl (354 µmol/l)

Seems to be protective role of estrogen in women this is a condition that usually refers to men.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in the management of uric acid levels and prevent related health problems. Some foods contain higher levels of purines and can lead to increased levels of uric acid, while others can help reduce the.

Foods to limit:

• Foods rich in purines: Foods high in purines can increase uric acid levels. These include offal (liver, kidneys), red meat, seafood (especially shellfish such as mussels and scallops), hunting, goose, almonds and processed meat products.
• Sugar and sugary drinks: A high intake of fructose has been linked to elevated levels of uric acid. The fructose in beverages is absorbed more quickly from the sugars in whole foods, because the drinks do not contain fibre, protein, or other nutrients.

Ways to reduce the amount of sugar you consume:

• Eat whole foods and avoid juices, syrups.
• Limit the processed, packaged foods.
• Check food labels for added sugars.
• Replace sugary drinks with similar drinks without sugar.

• Alcohol: The excessive consumption of alcohol, especially beer, can lead to higher levels of uric acid.
• Some vegetables: Some vegetables, such as spinach, asparagus and cauliflower, have a moderate to high content of purines. Although you do not need to be completely eliminated, the intake should be monitored.

Foods with a beneficial effect

• Cherries: Cherries have been shown to reduce the levels of uric acid and may help in the prevention of crises of gout.
• Berries: Blackberries, strawberries and other berries are rich in antioxidants and can help fight inflammation associated with high levels of uric acid.
• Low-fat dairy: The low-fat dairy products such as yogurt and milk have been associated with lower levels of uric acid. Calcium can help in the excretion of uric acid.
• Complex carbohydrates: Foods such as whole grains, oats and brown rice is healthy sources of carbohydrates and can help reduce the levels of uric acid.
• Water: The staying well hydrated can help to dilute the uric acid and facilitates their excretion through the urine. You have always with you a bottle of water. Set an alarm every hour to remind you to drink a few sips.

The maintaining a healthy body weight it is of the utmost importance, as well as excess body weight increases the risk of developing gout and weight loss reduces the risk of developing the disease. It is worth noting that even foods with a moderate level of purines can contribute to the accumulation of uric acid when consumed in large quantities, therefore, give attention to the serving sizes.

By making informed dietary choices, you will manage to have optimal levels of uric acid. Consult a dietitian to configure a weekly meal plan and remember to regularly monitored uric acid levels through blood tests.