Post by : Saif Rahman

High uric acid is increasingly seen in clinical practice. This condition, called hyperuricemia, develops when uric acid accumulates in the bloodstream. Uric acid is produced from purines, compounds present in foods such as red meat, certain seafood and alcohol. Under normal circumstances, the kidneys filter and eliminate uric acid. When production exceeds removal or kidney clearance falls, urate crystals may form in joints, causing gout, or collect in the urinary tract as kidney stones.

Dr. Natasha Negalur More, Consultant Rheumatologist at KIMS Hospitals, notes that diet is only part of the story. Several underlying health problems can raise uric acid. Below are five common contributors:

Kidney Disease – Impaired renal function reduces the body’s ability to excrete uric acid, allowing levels to rise.

Obesity – Excess body weight can boost uric acid production and hinder its clearance.

Diabetes – Insulin influences renal uric acid handling. Insulin resistance can therefore encourage accumulation.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) – Chronic hypertension can damage kidneys and slow uric acid elimination. Certain antihypertensive drugs may also elevate uric acid.

Hypothyroidism – A sluggish thyroid can slow metabolism and contribute to increased uric acid retention.

How diet can help

Dietary habits play a meaningful role in managing uric acid. Choosing appropriate foods and staying well-hydrated can reduce the chance of gout flares or kidney stones.

Foods to include:

Low-purine foods: Fresh fruit, most vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products.

Hydration: Aim for 2.5–3 liters of fluid per day to support kidney excretion.

Alkaline foods: Vegetables such as cucumber, bottle gourd, spinach and celery can help neutralise acidity.

Vitamin C-rich foods: Citrus, guava, berries and amla may assist in lowering uric acid.

Healthy fats: Sources like olive oil, nuts and seeds help control inflammation.

Foods to avoid:

High-purine foods: Red meats, organ meats (liver, kidney), shellfish and some fish such as sardines.

Alcohol: Particularly beer and distilled spirits.

Sugary drinks: Soft drinks, packaged fruit juices and items high in fructose syrup.

Processed foods: Fried snacks and high-fat convenience foods.

Key Takeaways

Controlling uric acid often requires more than medication. Weight management, consistent hydration and a balanced eating plan can lower the risk of painful attacks. Cutting back on alcohol and sugary beverages supports kidney function. Regular, modest lifestyle changes can have a lasting positive impact on joint and overall health.