Do you experience severe pain and red, swollen feet and legs, especially the big toe, when you wake up in the morning? Then it is possible that the level of uric acid in your body is high. Uric acid is a biological waste product that occurs when the body breaks down a natural compound called purines, which is present in some of the foods we eat. Normally, it dissolves in the blood and is excreted through the kidneys in the urine. However, when its production increases or its excretion decreases, uric acid accumulates in the blood and forms needle-like crystals (Monosodium Urate Crystals) in the joints. This condition is called Gout. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind the increase in uric acid:
Excessive consumption of purine-rich foods (High-Purine Diet): The most important reason for the increase in uric acid is diet. Red meat (beef, mutton, pork), seafood such as shellfish, crab, shrimp, oysters, and sardines, as well as internal organs such as liver and kidneys, contain high levels of purines. Regular consumption of these can greatly increase uric acid levels in the body.
Decreased Kidney Excretion: Most of the uric acid produced in the body is excreted by the kidneys. If the kidneys have any kind of dysfunction (Chronic Kidney Disease), or if the body does not have enough water, the kidneys are unable to filter uric acid properly. This can cause uric acid to accumulate in the blood.
Alcohol & High-Fructose Corn Syrup: Excessive alcohol consumption, especially beer, can increase uric acid levels. Alcohol slows down the function of the kidneys and prevents the excretion of uric acid. In addition, fructose, which is contained in artificially sweetened colas and packet juices, accelerates the production of purines in the body and increases uric acid.
Obesity and metabolic disorders (Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome): In obese people, the body naturally produces more uric acid. When you gain weight, insulin resistance occurs, which hinders the process of excreting uric acid through the kidneys. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol are also twice as likely to have increased uric acid.
Use of certain medications (Certain Medications): When doctors prescribe ‘Diuretics’ (or water pills) to reduce pressure, they cause the concentration of uric acid in the blood to increase when more water is excreted from the body through urine. In addition, aspirin tablets taken in low doses for a long time can also affect the excretion of uric acid.