Uric acid is a type of waste product that is flushed out of the body after digestion. When the body cannot process this acid for various reasons, it may lead to several health problems, including joint pain. In most cases, uric acid buildup affects the bloodstream and results in hyperuricemia. Here are some natural ways and treatment options available to eliminate uric acid from the body and promote good joint health.

How does uric acid affect the body?
The body is capable of flushing out toxins and uric acid on its own through the kidneys and the urine. At times, however, it may be unable to expel the extra uric acid for a variety of reasons. Certain foods rich in purines, long-term conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, psoriasis, genetic problems, and lifestyle issues may result in excessive amounts of uric acid in the body. High uric acid levels in the body can make one’s blood and urine too acidic. This, in turn, leads to joint and muscular pain, inflamed joints, gout, formation of kidney stones, blood in urine, difficulty passing urine, and stiffness.

Natural ways to lower uric acid levels
Avoiding purine-rich foods
Purines occur naturally in foods like dried beans and red meat like pork, shellfish, turkey, mushrooms, cauliflower, and sardines. The process of digesting and metabolizing these foods leads to the production of uric acid. High levels of uric acid may lead to serious health problems like gout, aching joints, and even kidney stones. As per the doctor’s recommendation, one can avoid these foods until one achieves a normal uric acid level.

Drinking plenty of water and other fluids
Water hydrates and helps the body get rid of toxins and uric acid from the kidneys. So drinking enough water at regular intervals is beneficial. One can also have unsweetened herbal, black, or green tea during the day. Drinking water immediately after meals is best avoided to ensure the digestion process is not impeded.

Avoiding sugary foods
The body releases purines after eating sugar-rich foods and raises uric acid levels in the blood. So, one’s advised to avoid anything that contains artificial sweeteners, refined sugar, corn syrup, and honey until the condition is under control. In addition, fructose in foods may result in metabolic problems.

Avoiding sugary beverages
It’s best to avoid beverages like soda that contain fructose since they do not carry fiber, protein, and other nutrients and are more quickly absorbed into the system. This, in turn, spikes uric acid levels in the body. Those with a sweet tooth can substitute store-bought products with fresh fruits like apples, pears, and cherries.

Eating fiber-rich foods
Eating fiber-rich and whole foods like oats, avocados, whole grains, nuts, lentils, chickpeas, quinoa, broccoli, and brown rice help regulate digestion and blood glucose and insulin levels. These factors are crucial for maintaining healthy levels of uric acid in the body. In addition, fiber takes longer to break down and lowers the risk of overeating.

Balancing insulin levels
Excessive insulin in the body may cause excessive concentration of uric acid. So, one’s advised to evaluate one’s insulin levels regularly.

Reducing stress
Stress and anxiety can cause inflammation in the joints and other body parts, thus affecting metabolism. Leading an active lifestyle with regular exercise and building some muscles are some ways one can reduce the uric acid deposits in the body. Other ways of alleviating stress include having a set sleep and wake-up schedule, meditating, performing breathing exercises, and cutting down on screen time.

Boosting vitamin C levels
Some studies have linked high vitamin C intake to a reduced risk of uric acid. One can get the vitamin C nutrient through foods like oranges, limes, lemons, grapefruit, kiwi, strawberries, tomatoes, and peppers.

Eating cherries
Unsweetened, natural cherries are rich in antioxidants, and have anti-inflammatory properties. Cherries are also a good source of fiber and vitamin C which may lower uric acid or prevent it from forming.

Consuming celery seeds
Celery seeds are a rich source of omega-6 fatty acids. It contains a compound called luteolin that may reduce uric acid levels in the blood, making it more alkaline. It also reduces inflammation in the body.

Treatments for excessive uric acid
A healthcare professional can recommend a number of tests to diagnose uric acid levels in one’s body. A blood sample is a primary test. Those who have been diagnosed with a kidney stone may go through a test that measures the uric acid level in the stone. Common physical treatments to control raised uric acid levels include prescription treatments that block uric acid production. Those suffering from the extreme condition may be advised to opt for urate-lowering therapy. If one experiences any symptoms, it is best to consult a healthcare professional immediately for prompt and personalized treatment.