The uric acid is a substance found naturally in the body and that arises after the decomposition process of purines. However, this acid can also be increased by the intake of foods rich in purines.
When people have too high levels of uric acid in their blood, it can pose a health risk. Normally, through urine and to a lesser extent through feces, the body discards the same amount of uric acid generated.
However, there may be a situation where the body does not eliminate less quantity. If this lasts for a certain period of time, it can cause the accumulation of crystals of this acid in the joints.
Thus, the accumulation of these crystals can cause the appearance of a disease known as gout, and characterized by inflammation and pain in the joints. In addition, having high levels of uric acid in the blood is a cardiovascular risk factor.
Hyperuricemia
Excess uric acid levels in the blood are called hyperuricemia. In this sense, the levels considered normal for this acid in the blood should range between 2.4 and 6.0 mg/dl in women; and between 3.4 and 7.0 mg/dl in men.
Cook meatThus, purines are nitrogen compounds that develop in the cells of the human body or that are incorporated into the body through food. Thus, uric acid arises as a result of the degradation process of these purines.
Normally, hyperuricemia and accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints usually originate when its value increases above 7 mg/dl in blood. In this situation, kidney stones and gout may appear.
'Forbidden' foods if uric acid is high
One of the most common treatments to reduce uric acid levels in the blood is to avoid eating foods rich in purines and follow a diet based on products that do not help increase purine levels in the body.
In this sense, the foods that we should avoid if we have high levels of uric acid are meat, meat extracts, yeast, or yeast extracts, such as beer or alcoholic beverages. It is also key to limit the intake of shellfish, asparagus, spinach, peas, lentils, cauliflower or mushrooms.
In addition, experts recommend not drinking caffeine or alcohol if you have high levels of uric acid, as they are elements that can be counterproductive in this regard.
Thus, among the beneficial foods in case of having high uric acid and that contain low levels of purines, we find the following:
- Milk and dairy products.
- Lettuce.
- Tomatoes.
- Green vegetable foods.
- Bread.
- Pasta.
- Fruit juice.
- Carbonated drinks.
- Walnuts,
- Fruit.
In addition, it is important to stay well hydrated and drink between two and three liters of water daily. Unless a medical specialist indicates otherwise.
On the other hand, in situations of hyperuricemia, it is common that in addition to making changes to the diet, your doctor indicates the intake of certain medications that help reduce uric acid levels.
