What Is Uric Acid And How Is It Controlled In The Body
When uric acid is present in the body in higher quantities than normal, it can lead to the development of a disease known as “gout”. Another consequence can be the formation of kidney stones and kidney failure.
In this article, we explain what uric acid is and how to keep it under control.
What you need to know about uric acid
Uric acid is produced in our body when purines are broken down. These substances are found in many foods such as, for example, fish, some dairy products and vegetables.
Maintained at normal levels it is not negative, in fact it protects blood vessels; but when it is in excess, it can increase the risk of suffering from various diseases.
As uric acid builds up in the blood (filtered through the kidneys) and kidney system, it can cause problems in the joints, muscles and various organs.
The increase in the amount of uric acid can be caused by:
- Hereditary factors
- Obesity
- A diet rich in purines
- High alcohol consumption
- Taking diuretics
- Taking immunosuppressive drugs
- Chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- Hypothyroidism
- Psoriasis
- Kidney failure
To prevent uric acid from continuing to increase its quantities in the body and causing problems, it is advisable to follow a balanced diet and reduce the consumption of certain foods such as:
- Red meat
- Seafood
- Anchovies
- Alcoholic beverages
- Sodas
- Asparagus
- Cauliflower
- Ham
- Lard
Natural remedies to reduce uric acid
In addition to eating healthy and avoiding foods that raise blood uric acid levels, you can enjoy the goodness and great benefits of the following foods:
Artichokes
This food has very interesting properties that help excrete uric acid through the urine. If you eat boiled artichokes, don’t throw away the cooking water. In fact, you can drink it as a hot broth and continue to enjoy the incredible benefits of this ingredient.
Onion
It is great for cleansing the body and preventing future problems, such as gout for example.
Ingredients
- 1 onion
- The juice of one lemon
- ½ liter of water
Preparation
- Boil the water in a saucepan.
- Meanwhile, cut the onion and squeeze the lemon juice.
- Cook until boiling.
- Then remove from the heat, let it cool a little and filter. Drink 2 cups a day.
Apples
They are great for fighting high uric acid levels. Eat one green apple a day with its peel. In addition, you can also prepare an excellent infusion.
Ingredients
- 3 apples
- 1 ½ liter of water
Preparation
- Let the water heat up.
- Cut the apples into small pieces, without peeling them and, once they come to a boil, cook them for 30 minutes.
- Filter and drink a cup of the cooking liquid once it has become lukewarm or at room temperature.
- You can keep the rest in the fridge and drink it whenever you want. It is a natural and very healthy remedy.
Strawberries
This fruit full of vitamins, minerals and nutrients, is perfect for avoiding suffering from gout. You can eat one or two a day, but you can also opt to drink a tea of its leaves and roots.
Ingredients
- 1 handful of strawberry leaves and roots
- 1 liter of water
Preparation
- Heat the water and add a handful of strawberry leaves and roots.
- Once it comes to a boil, let it cook for about 15 minutes.
- Let it rest for another 10 minutes and then strain the infusion.
- Drink sweetened with stevia or honey.
Apple cider vinegar
Several studies indicate that this ingredient can reduce uric acid in the blood. It is believed to be due to the amount of potassium and acetic acid it contains. In addition to using it to dress your salads, you can take advantage of the properties of apple cider vinegar by drinking it on an empty stomach.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of vinegar (20 ml)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
Preparation
- Mix both ingredients well and drink immediately before breakfast.
- If you want, you can still drink it in the afternoon.
Tips and habits to reduce uric acid in the blood
Pay close attention to the following tips that can help you lower your blood uric acid levels:
Include more potassium-rich foods in your diet
This nutrient has been shown to prevent the formation of uric acid crystals in the kidneys. Foods that have a good amount of potassium are:
- Banana
- Avocado
- Raisins
- Green leafy vegetables
- Potatoes
- Strawberries
- Watermelon
- Apricots
Eat more cherries
This fruit contains substances with anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce uric acid and avoid gout. Eat a handful of them a week, alone or in salads or desserts.
Drink enough water
This is not a mere whim, the fact that even doctors advise their patients to drink 2 liters of water a day proves it. In addition to all the benefits you surely already know about this good habit, it is worth pointing out that water has the ability to help the body eliminate uric acid.
In case you don’t like drinking water “alone”, remember that you can also opt for herbal infusions or natural juices. Coffee and milk do not fall into this group.
Avoid leading a high-protein diet
It is very popular with those looking to lose weight, but can lead to negative consequences such as increased uric acid. Choose another way to lose weight. It is best to eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water and exercise in moderation.
