Uric Acid / Gout

Uric acid is a chemical created when the body breaks down a substance called purines. Purines are normally produced by the body but is also seen in certain food items such as – shellfish, beans, organ meat (liver), beer etc.

Most uric acid dissolves in blood and travels to the kidneys and it passes out in urine. If the body produces too much uric acid or does not remove enough if it, the blood will contain high level of uric acid. This condition is called hyperuricemia.

This condition is also known as gout, where the uric acid forms crystals and gets deposited around the joints – especially toes and causing painful swelling. It is also a form of arthritis.

Some people would require medication to treat gout, however, a lifestyle change (diet and physical activities) can have a huge impact in reducing and regulating the uric acid levels in the blood.

Not all protein-rich food causes a uric acid issue. Only that protein sources that have high purine are the ones that can worsen gout. Avoid food items such shell fish, alcohol, beer, red meat etc to manage the uric acid levels in the blood. Ample amount of water is always helpful