High uric acid levels in the body have long been associated with debilitating joint pain and swelling, and with a newfound focus on protein-rich diets, conversations surrounding tackling it have been at the forefront. While lifestyle changes and some home remedies may help manage the condition, it is important to understand its impact on our bodies in the short and long term.
Dr Haricharan G, senior consultant physician, HoD, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospitals, Hyderabad, told indianexpress.com that uric acid is a byproduct of purine metabolism, and purines are found in many foods, such as animal proteins — red meat, organ meats, and certain types of seafood. “Uric acid is a chemical formed when purines break down. High uric acid levels can increase the risk of developing health issues like gout, kidney stones, and arthritis,” he said.
What happens to the body when your uric acid levels are high?
Dr Rahul Chirag, Senior General Physician, CARE Hospitals, Hi-tech city, Hyderabad, said that when uric acid builds up in the body more than it should, it can form tiny, sharp crystals—usually around the joints. “These crystals can cause gout, which leads to sudden and intense pain, usually in the big toe, but it can happen in other joints too. Over time, high uric acid can also lead to kidney stones and may slowly damage the kidneys if not managed properly,” he said, adding that it is important to control your uric acid levels to avoid these complications.
Common warning signs include sudden pain in a joint, swelling, redness, and a warm feeling in the area. “The pain can be so severe that even a bedsheet touching the joint feels uncomfortable. These attacks can come and go, and sometimes the joint can feel stiff even when you’re not moving it,” Dr Chirag added.
If this keeps happening, it could be a sign of high uric acid, and in such a situation, it is best to get a blood test and consult a doctor. Early treatment can help prevent long-term problems.
Why do uric acid levels tend to increase during summer?
Dr Vishal, Consultant Urologist at Fortis Hospital, Rajaji Nagar, told theindianexpress.com that while summer does not directly connect with rising uric acid levels, it can trigger those already at risk. He listed out these two reasons to be the main culprits:
Increase in production: Purine-rich foods like red meat, organ meats (liver, kidney), and certain seafood (sardines, anchovies) are broken down into uric acid. Excessive alcohol consumption, sugary drinks (fructose corn syrup), and some medications can also contribute.
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Struggling kidneys: When your kidneys struggle to eliminate uric acid efficiently, levels can rise. This can be due to genetics, health conditions like obesity or high blood pressure, or even certain medications like diuretics.
Uric acid is formed a s a result of purine metabolism (Source: Freepik)
How can you keep uric acid levels in check?
Dr Vishal suggested the following tips to keep your uric acid levels low:
Diet: Focus on eliminating sugary drinks and processed foods. Prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Restricting organ meats, shellfish, and certain fish varieties high in purines is also key.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to flush out uric acid through urination. This is especially important during summer to prevent dehydration.
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Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly benefit uric acid levels, as fat cells produce more than muscle cells. Regular exercise is a great way to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Fibre Intake: Consuming at least 5-10 grams of fibre daily can help balance insulin levels and manage uric acid.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
