Reduce Uric Acid Levels and Prevent Gout – 10 Natural Ways

Excessively high uric acid levels in the body can lead to a condition known as hyperuricemia. The condition develops due to increased production of uric acid or reduced excretion of the acid through the kidneys.

High uric acid levels can lead to renal failure, crystal deposits of uric acid in the urine, gout and joint inflammation and pain. According to recent studies, increased uric acid levels can also lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. The average levels of uric acid are 2.4-6 mgdL in women and 3.4-7 mgdL in men.

High levels of uric acid in the blood may be caused by a diet rich in purines, diabetes, acidosis, alcohol abuse, renal or endocrine insufficiency, obesity, genetics and hypothyroidism. Some medications, chemotherapy agents and some types of cancer can also be the cause, while strenuous exercise, fasting and dieting can temporarily increase your uric acid levels.

Although the removal process is difficult, there are plenty of natural ways of reducing the levels of uric acid in your body. Here are the best:

1. Cherries
Cherries contain certain chemical compounds which can control your uric acid levels and eliminate the excess. Dark cherries contain anthocyanins, powerful flavonoids which are also responsible for their dark color. Consume half a cup of cherries every day for a few weeks or drink 1-2 cups of tart cherry juice for a month in order to bring your uric acid levels under control.

2. Fiber-rich foods and starchy carbs
Foods rich in fiber (apples, strawberries, pears, oranges) can absorb the excess uric acid from your blood, while foods rich in starchy carbs (bananas, potatoes, oats, whole grain pasta, quinoa and tapioca) contain a small amount of purines which can control your uric acid levels. We suggest drinking green papaya tea regularly in order to keep your uric acid levels under control and prevent the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints.

3. Low-purine foods
Purines are nitrogen-rich compounds that break down in uric acid and raise the levels of the compound. Purines are usually found in animal protein, as well as legumes, beans, mushrooms, yeast and asparagus. Beer contains a high level of purines, so it’s best to avoid it if you’re suffering from high uric acid levels.

4. Lemon juice
Lemon juice can neutralize the excess uric acid in your blood and the acidity of your blood as well. Lemons are an alkalizing ingredient and are rich in vitamin C, which can keep the levels of uric acid under control. Squeeze a lemon in a glass of warm water and drink the mixture every morning before breakfast to keep the situation under control.

5. Water
As our body is made of a big amount of water, the liquid is essential for our health. Drinking plenty of water every day helps us stay hydrated and will help the kidneys excrete excess fluids from the body. Proper water consumption can reduce the risk of gout and other inflammatory diseases, and this was confirmed by one 2009 study. The results showed that drinking 5-8 glasses of water daily reduces the risk of gout attacks by a whopping 40%. The recommended amount of water per day is 8-10 glasses, and you should also consume water-rich fruit and vegetables in your diet as well.

6. Wheatgrass juice
Wheatgrass juice will quickly alkalize your body and contains more than enough phytochemicals and vitamin C which can neutralize uric acid in the body. Wheatgrass juice also contains proteins and amino acids and is an excellent substitute for animal protein. Take 2 tablespoons of wheatgrass juice every day in order to keep your uric acid levels in check.

7. Dairy products
Low-fat milk and dairy products have been associated with lower percentage of gout risk and lower plasma urea concentration. Skimmed milk contains orotic acid, a compound that can absorb excess uric acid and help the kidneys eliminate it. In general, you need to consume 1-5 cups of skimmed milk a day, and start consuming low-fat dairy products as well. If you’re dairy intolerant, try tofu instead.

8. Baking soda
Baking soda is a powerful alkalizing agent that can easily reduce the levels of uric acid in your body and reduce joint pain. The powder will keep your pH levels under control and prevent your body from turning acidic. To benefit from baking soda, add half a teaspoon in a glass of water and drink 4 glasses of the alkalizing mixture every day for 2 weeks.

9. Olive oil
Olive oil is a far better solution for cooking than vegetable oils. Vegetable oils turn to rancid fats when heated, which doesn’t happen with olive oil. The oil also contains vitamin E, which can put your uric acid levels under control. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats that won’t break down when heated, and contains antioxidants as well, which are great for your cardiovascular health.

10. Apple cider vinegar
ACV is a powerful cleaner and detoxifier that has an alkaline effect on the body. ACV is highly effective against high uric acid levels and can also treat inflammatory diseases. Add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink the beverage 2-3 times a day to prevent the accumulation of uric acid in your body. However, be wary that high excess consumption of ACV may lower your potassium levels, causing numerous health problems.

To keep your uric acid levels in check, you should also avoid drinking alcohol and eating foods rich in fat. Eat a healthy and balanced diet rich in complex carbs and low on protein. You should also stay away from refined carbs and bread, and avoid consuming high-fructose corn syrup. Keep your weight in check as experts say that fatty tissue contributes to the increase of uric acid production.

Source: healthandfitnesshouse.com