Foods That Lower the Uric Acid Levels in the Body
Uric acid is a waste substance the body produces when it breaks down purine, a substance found in our bodies and some foods. High levels of purine and uric acid can cause a painful form of arthritis known as gout. People who are prone to gout should work to lower their uric acid level, which can be done by eating certain alkaline foods and avoiding foods high in purines.
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Foods High in Purines
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Foods that are high in purines include herring, anchovies, sardines, scallops, venison, duck, mutton, turkey, bacon, smelt and organ meat, such as brain, liver, kidneys and sweetbreads. People with gout or who are prone to gout should consume these foods only in very small amounts and should also avoid eating more than 6 ounces per day of other lean, high-protein meat, fish and poultry.
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Good Foods to Eat
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People prone to gout should eat foods low in purines and high in alkaline to lower their uric acid level. Such foods include berries, cherries, bananas, celery, tomatoes, cabbage, parsley, kale, leafy greens, mushrooms, artichokes, cauliflower, carrots and yams. Basically, a diet consisting of many vegetables is ideal.
Other Ways to Lower Uric Acid
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To avoid a build up of uric acid in your system, remain active, consider losing weight (gout sufferers are often overweight), avoid drinking alcohol and drink plenty of water each day.
Proper Nutrition
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You'll need to replace the meat you are giving up with foods that will help you maintain a balance of iron, protein and other essential nutrients. In addition to the aforementioned leafy greens, mushrooms and cabbage, you can eat tofu, broccoli, beans, spinach, seaweed and zucchini.
If You Have Gout
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Gout typically affects overweight, middle-aged men with a high-protein diet. Symptoms of gout include pain, swelling and tenderness in a joint (typically the big toe), more joint discomfort at night, itchy and flaky skin at the affected joint, red or purplish skin at the affected joint and, in some cases, fever. As with any illness, symptoms may vary and you should see your doctor for a definite diagnosis.
If someone in your family has gout, you might be prone to it, even if you do not currently have symptoms. Speak with your doctor about you chances of getting it and what lifestyle changes you can make now.
References
- Photo Credit "Clagett Farm CSA Week 11" is Copyrighted by Flickr user: thebittenword.com under the Creative Commons Attribution license.
