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High uric acid is a condition that arises when your kidneys are unable to adequately remove uric acid. Uric acid is essentially natural water that is formed during the digestion of purine-containing foods. What exactly is purine? It is carbon and the nitrogen-based chemical molecule that is broken down in the body. However, purine-rich foods such as meat, sardines, and beer cause your body to fail to digest them, resulting in an increase in uric acid levels, a waste product.
Roopshree Jaiswal, Consultant – Dietitian/Nutritionist, Motherhood Hospitals, Mechanic Nagar, Indore, spoke to HealthShots about this condition and suggested that certain dry fruits can help you control your high uric acid level.
Jaiswal says, “High uric acid levels usually occur when the kidneys don’t eliminate uric acid properly and efficiently. When too much uric acid stays in the body, the condition is known as hyperuricemia. This causes crystals of uric acid to form which get settled in the joints and can lead to gout, which is a very painful form of arthritis. Uric acid can also settle in the kidneys forming kidney stones.”
People with high uric acid levels should consult a doctor and ensure the levels are kept in check through proper treatment. They can also opt for proper nutrition to control its levels. You should consume items that have low levels of purines. Dry fruits can be beneficial in this regard
These nuts are low in purines and very nutritious. Cashews are helpful in reducing LDL cholesterol and also boost healthy cholesterol, HDL. They contain important vitamins and minerals that are essential for maintaining bodily functions and are suitable for gout patients.
Walnuts have plenty of Omega-3 and are gout friendly protein source. They also have anti-inflammatory properties. Walnuts are a safe source of essential nutrients for people with high uric acid levels.
Adding almonds to your diet will help lower your uric acid levels as they are low in purines and loaded with vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese. The skin of the almonds is also rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals.
Flaxseeds are rich in essential fatty acids which the body cannot produce by itself. Flaxseed oil has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body that can reduce the pain caused by high uric acid levels.
These are rich in fibre and low in purines. They help control the uric acid level and provide relief from pain caused by gout.
In addition to dry fruits and nuts, low-purine foods include fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, potatoes, and low fat and non-dairy fat products like yoghurt and skim milk.
It’s crucial to note that while a balanced diet can help reduce the amount of uric acid in your system, you may also need drugs. For a treatment plan, you should speak with your physician.
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