Uric acid is a waste product that is produced due to the natural destruction of cells in the body and through some of the foods we eat. Normally, it dissolves in the blood and is excreted through the kidneys. But when its amount increases, it accumulates in the joints and causes problems like ‘gout’. The main reasons are:
Purine-rich foods: Red meat (beef, mutton), seafood (some types of fish, shrimp), and organ meats (liver) are rich in purines. When these are digested, more uric acid is produced in the body.
Sweet drinks and fructose: Fructose, which is contained in artificially sweetened sodas, colas, and packet juices, accelerates the production of uric acid. This can cause the level of uric acid in the blood to increase rapidly.
Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption, especially beer, impairs the kidneys’ ability to remove uric acid from the body. This causes uric acid to build up in the blood.
Kidney failure: The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood. When the kidneys are damaged, uric acid cannot be removed properly and remains in the body.
Obesity and lifestyle diseases: The body produces more uric acid in obese people. People with high blood pressure, diabetes, and thyroid problems are also more likely to have elevated uric acid.