The Link Between Gout and Uric Acid
If you have been suffering from gout, you probably know that uric acid is a contributing factor. Part of the tests performed on patients to properly diagnose whether they have gout or not is to determine the level of uric acid levels in their bodies.
Studies seem to indicate that foods that increase uric acid levels in the blood can significantly increase the development and risk of gout. But how is this link formed and what can you do about it? We examine the factors that associate uric acid with gout and the ways you can minimize the risk of increasing uric acid levels in your body.
How uric acid finds its way into the body Uric acid is naturally produced by the body and is in fact a small component of the urine. From external sources, uric acid may be obtained through foods that are high in purine. These foods include red meats, organ meats, seafood, dried peas and beans. When we eat these foods, the body processes them through digestion. Purines break down and turn into uric acid.
Usually, normal kidneys merely process the uric acid by filtering it before it passes to the blood. From the blood stream, uric acid is further processed to become part of urine, which is normally excreted by the body. However, problems with the kidneys or the increased intake of foods high in purine can cause the improper excretion of uric acid from the body. This results to an increased level that may lead to gout if left untreated or unmanaged.
Uric acid and gout High levels of uric acid in the body do not automatically cause gout. Some people may have increased uric acid levels in the blood for many years and still not complain of any symptoms at all.
However, uric acid may crystallize and gradually migrate to the joints (knees, ankles and feet, especially the area around the big toe). These uric acid crystals (also called urate crystals or monosodium urate crystals) may also embed themselves in the connective tissues found in the area around the joints. Uric acid crystals are sharp and pointed and once they become deposits in the joints, can cause pain and swelling.
Alcohol and uric acid As if eating rich, heavy meals aren?t enough, another part of gastronomic delight may have to be sacrificed to prevent or minimize the symptoms of gout ? beer and alcohol. People who are suffering from gout are encouraged to eliminate or at least minimize their consumption. Alcohol is known to impede the effective excretion of uric acid. Beer, on the other hand, carries a negative one-two punch: it contains alcohol and yeast, two ingredients that aggravate gout symptoms.
Is total elimination of foods with uric acid the only solution? The best way to manage gout is to maintain a healthy diet that minimizes the consumption of uric acid. It is almost impossible to totally eliminate purine-rich foods and not sacrifice something in terms of proper nutrition, that is why medical experts and dietitians recommend that portion control is applied and that foods that are rich in purines are kept to a minimum or at least substituted with a healthier alternative.
Daniel researches effective methods of treating and preventing gout attacks naturally. For more practical tips about eliminating gout flare ups take a look at this Gout and Uric Acid website.
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