Saturday 14 May 2011

Uric Acid Diet

Uric acid diet is a natural remedy to cure gout (joint inflammation). To know exactly which foods come under uric acid diet list, read on...
Uric Acid Diet
Uric acid diet is commonly prescribed for the treatment of gout. As we all know, presence of surplus uric acid in blood, triggers gout, a condition that causes inflammation of joints, leading to severe pain. Uric acid that naturally occurs in our body is the result of metabolism of two substances; proteins and purines. In most cases, the condition specifically targets the big toe, but it can also affect the knees, wrists and hands. In order to combat gout, it is essential to considerably minimize protein and purine intake, which is nothing but diet rich in uric acid. Read more on foods to avoid with gout.

Uric Acid Diet

Uric acid diet involves exclusion of certain foods, that are known to worsen the gout problem. Staying away from such foods, can reduce joint inflammation and help get rid of gout. Avoiding foods that raise uric acid levels in blood, is a simple way to ease pain naturally. Foods that should be avoided are explained below:

Alcohol
Alcohol, if consumed even in small quantities, can contribute to worsening of gout. This is because analysis of any alcoholic beverage (beer, wine, etc.), has shown that these drinks contain high levels of purine, thus increasing uric acid content in the body. So a person drinking alcohol, during this joint inflammation condition is indirectly 'hitting an axe on his own leg', as it can aggravate the joint pain.

Protein Rich Foods
High protein foods being rich in purines, should not be included in uric acid diet. Fish, poultry products (chicken), eggs, etc. are some of the foods that come under the list of protein rich foods. Even vegetables like spinach, broccoli, lentils, avocados and asparagus are found to be very rich in proteins, hence must be avoided.

Foods High in Sugar
People who think that drinking soft drinks is one of the ways of getting rid of uric acid through urine, are completely wrong. This is because soft drinks contain high amounts of sugar, and recent studies suggest that people consuming sweetened carbonated soft drinks have a very high probability of suffering from gout attacks. Sweetened fruit juice, high sugary foods such as cakes and pastries, as well as fructose rich fruits (oranges) can worsen the pre-existing joint pain.

What to Include in Uric Acid Diet

Foods that reduce uric acid levels in the body, need to be consumed on a daily basis. Indulging in low purine foods, will help in controlling this condition. These foods form an integral part of low uric acid diet.

High Potassium Foods
A diet high in potassium is another effective way to ease discomfort associated with gout. Studies show that sufficient potassium intake can boost uric acid excretion. One of the best sources of potassium are bananas and tomatoes. Read more on foods high in potassium.

Dairy Products
Gout sufferers should be very careful in choosing dairy products. Low fat cheese and yogurt as well as skimmed milk are some dairy products that can help combat gout.

Cherries
Cherries contain high amounts of vitamin C and potassium, which help in reducing uric acid levels in the body. Anthocyanins, a natural flavonoid, is found in high quantities in cherries which bear anti-inflammatory properties and thus help in reducing pain and swelling. Drinking cherry juice can also help in relieving pain. Read more on
  • Cherry Juice for Gout
  • Cherries and Gout
Water
To encourage elimination of uric acid, drinking plenty of water is crucial. Increasing water intake will help the body to flush off excess uric acid through urine. This is one of the best home remedies that can work wonders to decrease gout symptoms.

To know more about uric acid diet, read
  • Gout Diet
  • Gout - Natural Remedies
  • Foods High in Uric Acid
  • Gout Treatment Diet
Along with uric acid diet, one should ensure that body weight does not increase. Losing excess kilos and maintaining a healthy weight is necessary to manage gout pain. Studies show that being overweight increases joint related problems. Exercise, such as walking, can help to improve flexibility in joints as well as reduce weight.

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