5 Common Causes Of High Uric Acid

Elevated levels of uric acid in the blood are called hyperuricemia. To maintain a normal level, you need to reduce your intake of purine-rich foods. Excess is excreted in the urine or passed into the intestines. Otherwise, it can accumulate in the joints, forming crystals. Here are the main common causes of high uric acid.

A normal level of uric acid is 2.4 to 6.0 mg / dL in women and 3.4 to 7.0 mg / dL in men. High values ​​can be dangerous to health. It is important to maintain a normal level of uric acid and reduce it if it is elevated.

Common causes of high uric acid

One third of the uric acid that exists in the human body comes from foods and beverages rich in purines.  The other two thirds are produced naturally by the body. Therefore, it is important to know a few common causes of high uric acid.

1. Inadequate nutrition

Poor nutrition is not the only cause, but it is an important factor when it comes to this health problem. Foods rich in purines, such as meat, offal, fish, sausages or burgers produce high levels of uric acid. High salt intake is also harmful.

2. Refined sugar

Consumption of foods high in sugar, such as sweets, cakes, sweet drinks, processed fruit juices or chocolate are on the list of common causes of high uric acid.

Foods high in sucrose and fructose increase uric acid levels. It is best to avoid them. Try to adopt a diet based on fruits and vegetables.

3. Alcohol consumption

Consumption of alcoholic beverages can cause problems with the hepatic metabolism of uric acid, leading to an increase in its level and the accumulation of alcohol in the body. This harmful habit affects the intestinal flora, reducing the number of healthy bacteria.

4. Diuretic drugs

Diuretic drugs increase urine production, controlling high blood pressure. Thus, the kidneys eliminate more water, which increases the risk of increased uric acid levels due to difficulties encountered by the kidneys in its processing.

5. Obesity

High body weight can lead to the development of gout, a disease that occurs when uric acid levels rise, leading to the formation of crystals in the joints.

Obesity, hypertension and diabetes are common causes of high uric acid, which is more difficult to eliminate from the body.

Recommendations for reducing uric acid levels

If the level of uric acid is only slightly elevated, then it can be treated with changes in diet. High-fiber foods reduce the level of uric acid in the blood and facilitate its absorption in the intestines.

High fiber foods:

• Oat
• Spinach
• Broccoli
• Foods that contain many antioxidants: berries, tomatoes, grapes, mangold beets.
• Whole grains
• It is recommended to eat more whole grains and less refined carbohydrates, such as white bread or sweets. The latter have a poor nutritional value.

Foods to avoid:

• Trans fats
• Sugar
• Alcohol
• Fats increase the level of triglycerides, which are stored in the arteries and can lead to myocardial infarction.
• Pastries also contain a high amount of saturated fat and are not recommended.
• Alcohol affects the process of removing uric acid from the body. It is also advisable to reduce the consumption of red meat, chicken and fish, because animal proteins increase the level of uric acid in the body.

Other tips

Hydrate. It is important to increase the intake of fluids, especially water, to stimulate the elimination of uric acid in the urine. We recommend that you drink 2-3 liters of water a day.

• Avoid high salt intake to prevent water retention.
• Adopt a diet based on fruits and vegetables.
• Reduce the consumption of red meat and sausages.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Exercise regularly to enjoy the many benefits and avoid joint problems.
• Try to maintain a healthy weight.
• Increases vitamin C intake. The recommended amount to reduce uric acid levels is 500 mg.
• Consume herbal infusions, such as horsetail and nettle, to lower uric acid in the body and improve kidney function.
• It is important to monitor your diet and exercise to protect your health.