The waste product from the digestion of purine-rich food is called uric acid. However, sometimes, its inefficient digestion can increase the level of uric acid in the blood which can be harmful to the body.
A condition marked by an excess of uric acid in the blood is called hyperuricemia. Some of the health complications that can arise due to hyperuricemia include gout, kidney disease, diabetes and heart problems.
Various factors like diet, lifestyle, weight etc can put you at the risk of hyperuricemia, however, this condition can be managed with proper measures.
Tips to lower uric acid levels
Here are some ways in which you can control your uric acid levels:
Go easy on the sugar: Who doesn’t love a healthy sugary treat? However, if you are concerned about your uric acid levels, you may want to stay away from sugar. High uric acid levels are more likely to be due to the sugar content in processed foods, so it’s important to pay attention to diet.
Beware of purines: These chemical compounds found in food can put you at risk for gout. Foods like sardines, beer, certain varieties of meat, etc. contain purines which can increase the level of uric acid in the blood.
Avoid the consumption of alcohol: Everyone knows the disadvantages of drinking alcohol, but did you know that it can also increase the level of uric acid? Hence, it is advisable to limit or completely abstain from alcohol consumption.
Manage insulin levels: Did you know that studies have shown an adverse effect of high insulin levels on the body’s uric acid levels? This link between insulin and uric acid levels is important because it provides an insight into the effect of chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes on the body’s uric acid levels. In addition to better management of uric acid and blood sugar levels, it can also help patients with prediabetes.
Maintain a healthy weight: Being obese or overweight is never good for health. It can put the body at risk of cardiovascular complications, high blood pressure, diabetes etc. Therefore it is necessary to take care of body weight and inculcate in habits like eating healthy, being physically active, reducing processed foods etc.
