Uric acid is natural waste that the body produces after digesting foods that contain purines. Some of these foods include sodas, seafood, certain meats, beer, and beans, but the body also produces and breaks down purines on its own. The body has the natural ability to filter out uric acid via the kidneys and urine; however, continuously consuming foods that are high in purines can cause uric acid to build up in the bloodstream.
As purines reach a point of decomposition, the body creates too much uric acid. The build-up of uric acid in the bloodstream is commonly associated with development of gout, kidney disease, skin problems, or metabolic acidosis. People with gout are encouraged to follow a strict diet and avoid high-purine foods. Using the following foods to your advantage, you can help naturally lower dangerous levels of uric acid.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Some people may contest that apple cider vinegar is not conducive for those who are trying to lower uric acid levels. While it may be acidic outside the body, apple cider vinegar has an alkalizing effect inside the body. Add two teaspoons of raw apple cider vinegar to eight ounces of filtered water and consume this twice a day to help reduce uric acid levels.
Cherries
Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, cherries also contain anthocyanins, which are flavonoids that have antioxidant effects. Anthocyanins work to reduce overall uric acid levels and they help prevent uric acid from crystalizing and depositing in joints. Cherries may also reduce overall inflammation.
Fiber-Rich Foods
Great foods that contain fiber include apples, blueberries, broccoli, pears, cucumbers, carrots, steel cut oats, strawberries, and celery. Adding high-fiber foods to your diet helps to lower uric acid levels because they absorb uric acid in the bloodstream and work to eliminate excess uric acid via the kidneys.
Vitamin C Foods
Vitamin C is a natural cleanser, helping to flush toxins from the body. Including vitamin C-rich foods in your diet can help disintegrate uric acid bloodstream and flush it from the body. Start including kiwis, guavas, green leafy vegetables, and citrus fruit in your diet. Similar to apple cider vinegar, citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges have an alkalizing effect inside the body. The reason for this is because they are low in sugar, meaning they are alkaline.
Green Tea
Green tea contains powerful antioxidants that can help decrease uric acid levels in the body. People with hyperuricemia who consume green tea have been known to decrease their risk of developing gout. One cup of green tea a day is sufficient.
In addition to adding this list of foods to your diet, it can be beneficial to avoid consuming sugary beverages. Fructose in juices or sodas is absorbed quickly, spiking your blood sugar levels and leading to higher amounts of uric acid in the body. Replace those sugary beverages with freshly made juices or smoothies. And don’t forget to drink lots of water!
