|
High levels of uric acid in the body are responsible for a condition
called gout (a form of arthritis). Gout is a painful condition
characterized by sudden onset of severe attacks of pain, inflammation,
redness and tenderness in joints, most common site being the big toe.
Gout is more often encountered by men.
Most people with high uric acid levels don’t necessarily develop gout.
It is when the uric acid levels become high enough and form crystals
that gout occurs.
Net increase in uric acid levels is caused either when there is
increased production of it in the body, or in case of decreased
elimination of it. The following factors may increase uric acid levels
in the body:
Diuretics
Increased alcohol intake
Genetic predisposition
A condition called hypothyroidism
Immune-suppressants
Obesity
Vitamin B3 (also known as niacin)
Diet rich in purine (organ meat, gravy, dried beans, mushrooms)
Renal insufficiency – decreased function of the kidneys in filtering and
getting rid of waste
Here are some foods that can help decrease high uric acid level
|
|
 |
|
BANANAS
Bananas have been proven great when it comes to lowering uric
acid levels. A form of diet for patients with gout or other type of
arthritis is the “banana-only” diet.
In this diet, eight to nine bananas are to be taken in a day, and this
has to be continued for three to four days, to alleviate the signs and
symptoms of inflammation as well as swelling of joints associated with
gout and other forms of arthritis. |
|
 |
|
STRAWBERRIES
Apart from bananas, another naturally occurring produce to help combat
high levels of the said chemical compound in the body are strawberries.
They’re delicious when eaten directly, and in case one is not fond of
its taste, they can always enjoy a smoothie! |
|
|
|
APPLES
Apples are rich in malic acid. This acid nullifies the effects of uric
acid by neutralizing it, consequently providing relief to the sufferers.
It is recommended to consume one apple a day to make good use of its
benefits, especially in this regard. |
|
|
|
CHERRIES
Cherries are known to contain anthocyanin, which is an anti-inflammatory
substance. It prevents uric acid levels from rising and also prevents
crystallization of the chemical compound.
Hence, consequently, the chances of deposition of crystals of uric acids
in the joints and causing gout or any other sort of inflammation are
markedly reduced. It helps with the inflammation and pain by also
neutralizing the acid. The recommended daily dose of cherries to bring
down uric acid levels is 200 grams. |
|
 |
|
WATER
Water is essential for all things living. It helps with gout by removing
toxins and flushing out excess uric acid from the body. Recommended
daily intake of water is 10-12 glasses daily.
|
|
 |
|
VEGETABLE JUICES
An important and easy home remedy to lower uric acid levels is carrot
juice mixed with beetroot and cucumber juice.
|
|
 |
|
HIGH-FIBER FOODS
According to University of Maryland Medical Centre, foods crammed with
fiber greatly help in lowering the levels of the chemical compound, uric
acid.
|
|
 |