Uric acid is a waste product, which is formed in our body. Although, the kidney filters it out, but if it increases due to some reason, it can cause a lot of damage to health. Many times uric acid accumulates in the joints, due to which pain and difficulty in walking starts. Therefore, it is important to control the level of uric acid. For this, it is important to take care of the diet (Foods to Reduce Uric Acid). Let us know what to eat and what not to eat to reduce uric acid.

What is uric acid?

Uric acid is formed in our body by the breakdown of a substance called purine. This substance is excreted from the body in the form of urine through the kidneys. But when the kidneys do not function properly or the amount of purine in the body is high, uric acid accumulates in the blood. This accumulation causes arthritis and other health problems.

What to eat to reduce uric acid?

To reduce uric acid, you should include these food items in your diet-

• Fruits and vegetables – Most fruits and vegetables are low in purines and rich in fiber , which helps keep the kidneys healthy.
• Cereals – Cereals like brown rice, oats and barley are rich in fibre and help reduce uric acid.
• Water- Drinking plenty of water keeps the kidneys healthy and removes uric acid from the body.
• Cherries- Cherries contain antioxidants that help reduce uric acid.
• Green Tea – Green tea contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and reduce uric acid.

What not to eat to reduce uric acid?

Food items that increase uric acid should be avoided such as-

• Red Meat- Red meat like beef, pork etc. contain high amount of purine.
• Organ meats- Organ meats like liver and kidney are high in purines.
• Sea Foods – Seafood like fish, shrimp and crab also contain high amounts of purines.
• Alcohol – Drinking alcohol can increase uric acid levels.
• Sweet drinks – Soda, juice and other sweetened drinks contain fructose, which can increase uric acid levels.
• Sugar- Consuming sugar can also increase the level of uric acid.

What else to keep in mind

• Lose weight- Obesity is a major cause of uric acid. Losing weight can reduce uric acid levels.
• Exercise daily- Exercising daily increases metabolism in the body and reduces the level of uric acid.
• Reduce stress- Stress can increase uric acid levels. Practice yoga, meditation, and other stress-reducing techniques.
• Medicines- Doctors can also prescribe medicines to reduce uric acid.