Increased levels of uric acid in the body (hyperuricemia) are caused by excess uric acid in the body or reduced excretion through the kidneys. It is a dangerous condition which may lead to numerous other problems. According to scientists, high uric acid levels may cause high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases.
The normal uric acid levels in the blood are 3.4-7 mg/dL for men and slightly lower for women. Alcohol abuse, a diet rich in purines, underactive thyroid, endocrine disorders, acidosis and obesity are all big risk factors for the problem. Some medications like diuretics can also be blamed, as can fasting, crash diets and other factors. Luckily, the problem can be simply treated with the natural remedies you can see below:
Baking soda
Baking soda is an alkalizing ingredient which can neutralize acidity in the body and make uric acid soluble so it can be eliminated from the body. Add ½ a teaspoon of it to a glass of water and drink the solution 4 times a day for best results.
Water
Drinking water can dilute the uric acid in the body and improve the function of the kidneys so they can eliminate it. According to one 2009 study, drinking 6-8 glasses of water during the day can reduce the risk of gout attacks by 40%. Stick to the recommended amount of water and consume water-rich foods such as watermelon in order to keep your uric acid levels stable.
Dairy products
Low-fat milk and yogurt can significantly reduce the risk of gout, a conditions caused by excess uric acid levels. Skimmed milk is rich in orotic acid which reduces the absorption of uric acid in the body and assists its removal. Drink 1-5 glasses of skim milk or low-fat yogurt every day to prevent gout and high uric acid levels in your blood.
Lemon juice
Lemon juice is acidic to taste, but alkaline in nature. Drinking it every day will alkalize your body and neutralize the excess uric acid in your blood.
ACV
Apple cider vinegar is another natural cleaner that will remove the excess uric acid from your body. It contains malic acid, which can break down uric acid and remove it from the body, while also alkalizing it. When you’re buying ACV, make sure it’s unpasteurized and raw. Add a teaspoon of it in a glass of water and drink the mixture a few times a day to neutralize uric acid and prevent further problems.
Cherries
Dark berries and cherries contain certain chemicals that can neutralize uric acid in your body. Every purple and red-colored berry contains anthocyanins, powerful flavonoids which can reduce inflammation and stiffness and neutralize acids. Drink 1-2 glasses of tart cherry juice every day for a month and a cup of cherry juice for 2 weeks in order to reduce the levels of uric acid in the body.
Wheatgrass juice
Wheatgrass contains a lot of chlorophyll and vitamin C as well as phytochemicals that can detoxify the body. It also contains amino acids and protein which are beneficial for your overall health. Add 2 tablespoons of wheatgrass juice with lemon juice and drink the mixture to reduce your uric acid levels.
Olive oil
The vegetable oils we use every day can turn to rancid fats when heated, which reduce the levels of vitamin E in the blood. This vitamin is responsible for controlling the levels of uric acid in the blood, so lack of it means that the acid won’t be controlled. Instead of vegetable oils, you should start using olive oil for cooking as its rich in monounsatured fats, antioxidants and vitamin E which will keep the levels of uric acid under control.
Starchy carbs and foods rich in fiber
Fiber can reduce the levels of uric acid in the blood by absorbing them and assisting in their removal. We suggest eating a diet rich in fiber and starchy carbs such as oranges, pears, whole grains, quinoa, oats, potatoes, bananas, tapioca and whole grain pasta. Green papaya tea can help as well by alkalizing your body and removing the excess uric acid. These foods and drinks can also reduce the inflammation in the body and reduce the risk of gout.
Diet low in purines
Purines contain nitrogen and can be found in animal protein. When digested, they are broken down to uric acid, which can cause further problems. Avoid consuming too much poultry, fish and animal meat as well as beans, legumes, yeast, beer, asparagus and mushrooms in order to prevent the problems related to uric acid.
To control your uric acid levels, we suggest consuming a diet rich in carbs and fiber. Make sure it is low on purines and refined carbs as well. Staying physically active is important as well, as fat increases the production of uric acid in the blood. Stay away from alcohol – it can interfere with the removal of the acid, and avoid consuming fatty foods as well as they interfere with the body’s ability to neutralize uric acid.
