uric acid is a waste product that is produced when the body breaks down purines which are substances found in some foods and drinks normally uric acid dissolves in the blood and passes through the kidneys into the urine but sometimes the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys can’t get rid of it fast enough this causes uric acid to build up in the blood and form crystals in the joints causing pain and inflammation this condition is called gout gout can be very painful and can interfere with your daily activities it can also lead to kidney stones and other complications if left untreated the good news is that you can lower your uric acid levels by making some changes in your diet and lifestyle such as losing weight avoiding foods high in sugar or taking medications we will share with you the top 8 foods.
Cherries
cherries are one of the best foods for gout because they contain anthocyanins which are antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory and anti-gout effects cherries can help lower uric acid levels by inhibiting an enzyme that produces it they can also prevent uric acid crystals from forming in the joints and reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks you can eat fresh or frozen cherries or drink cherry juice or extract try to consume at least half a cup of cherries or one cup of cherry juice per day.
Apple Cider Vinegar
apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy that can help balance your body’s pH levels and promote detoxification it can also help dissolve uric acid crystals and prevent them from forming in your joints you can drink a glass of water with one or two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar before each meal or before going to bed number three low-fat dairy products Studies have shown that low-fat dairy products such as milk yogurt and cheese can help lower uric acid levels and reduce the risk of gout dairy products contain protein and calcium which may help the body excrete uric acid more efficiently they also have anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe the joints so aim for two to three servings of low-fat dairy products
Coffee
Coffee gives you a boost of energy but also lowers your uric acid levels research has found that coffee consumption is associated with lower levels of uric acid and a lower risk of gout coffee contains caffeine and chlorogenic acid which can help increase the excretion of uric acid through the urine however be careful not to drink too much coffee as it can also cause dehydration and increased blood pressure limit your intake to two to four cups.
Water
Water is not food but it is essential for keeping your body hydrated and flushing out toxins including uric acid drinking enough water can help prevent uric acid crystals from forming in the joints and kidneys and reduce the risk of gout attacks water also helps dilute the concentration of uric acid in the blood and urine making it easier for the kidneys to eliminate it so aim for at least eight glasses of water per day.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are complex carbohydrates that provide fiber vitamins minerals and phytochemicals that benefit your health whole grains can help lower uric acid levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and affects uric acid production of whole grains including brown rice oats barley quinoa whole wheat bread and pasta try to replace refined grains with whole grains as much as possible.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help lower uric acid levels by increasing its excretion through the urine vitamin C also boosts the immune system and protects the joints from oxidative damage foods that are rich in vitamin C includes citrus fruits strawberries kiwis bell peppers broccoli tomatoes and pineapple you can also take Vitamin C supplements but consult your doctor before doing so the recommended daily intake of vitamin C for adults is 75 milligrams for women and 90 milligrams for men.
Nuts
Nuts number eight nuts are not only low in purines but also have many other health benefits they are rich in protein fiber healthy fats vitamins minerals and antioxidants that can help lower your cholesterol blood pressure inflammation and oxidative stress one study found that eating 10 grams of12 weeks reduced uric acid levels by 14 in people with coronary artery disease other nuts that may help lower uric acid levels include cashews walnuts flax seeds and Brazil nuts these nuts are also low in purines and high in nutrients that can support your overall health but you should be careful not to overeat nuts as they are also high in calories and can cause weight gain if consumed in excess so these are the eight foods that can help you lower your uric acid levels naturally and prevent gout attacks of course, these foods are not a substitute for medical treatment and you should always talk with your doctor before making any changes to your diet.
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FAQ Questions & Answers
Certain foods contain compounds that either help the body eliminate uric acid more efficiently or inhibit its production, thus aiding in reducing uric acid levels naturally.
Foods such as cherries, berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, tofu, and low-fat dairy products are known to be beneficial in reducing uric acid levels.
Yes, certain nutrients such as vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants found in these foods have been shown to help lower uric acid levels and reduce the risk of gout attacks.