High uric acid levels in the blood, a condition known as hyperuricemia, often go unnoticed until they cause significant physical discomfort. Uric acid is a waste product created when the body breaks down purines—natural substances found in our own cells and in many of the foods we eat. While the body typically filters this through the kidneys and eliminates it through urine, an imbalance can lead to painful health complications.

What Causes High Uric Acid?

High levels occur when your body either produces too much uric acid or your kidneys cannot excrete it efficiently. Several factors contribute to this:

• Genetics: Family history plays a major role in how your body processes and eliminates purines.
• Kidney Function: If the kidneys are underperforming due to age or illness, they cannot filter out waste effectively.
• Weight: Being overweight causes the body to produce more uric acid and makes it harder for the kidneys to clear it.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics (water pills) or low-dose aspirin, can interfere with the body’s ability to remove uric acid.

Foods That Trigger High Uric Acid

Diet is one of the most significant factors you can control. Foods high in purines cause the body to produce excess uric acid:

• Red and Organ Meats: Beef, lamb, pork, and especially liver or kidneys.
• Certain Seafood: Shellfish, anchovies, sardines, and mackerel.
• Sugary Drinks: Beverages high in fructose (like soda and sweetened juices) speed up the breakdown of cells, increasing uric acid production.
• Alcohol: Especially beer, which is high in purines and dehydrates the body, making it harder for kidneys to flush the system.

The Effects of High Uric Acid

When uric acid levels remain high, it can crystallize in the body, leading to:

• Gout: A painful form of arthritis where sharp crystals deposit in the joints, causing sudden swelling, redness, and intense pain (often in the big toe).
• Kidney Stones: Crystals can form in the urinary tract, leading to painful stones.
• Chronic Kidney Issues: Long-term high levels can put a strain on the kidneys, potentially leading to permanent damage over time.

How to Prevent and Manage High Levels

• Hydration is Key: Drinking plenty of water helps your kidneys flush out waste products effectively.
• Dietary Balance: Focus on low-purine proteins like poultry, low-fat dairy, and plant-based proteins like beans.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the overall production of uric acid in the body.

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