We must not underestimate the harm of uric acid. If it becomes severe, it can cause gout, damaging your liver, kidneys, and joints. A set of data shows that there are 80 million gout patients and 120 million hyperuricemia individuals in China alone, making gout a medical challenge!
Uric acid is the end product of purine metabolism. Disorders in purine metabolism, abnormal energy metabolism, and renal excretion disorders can all lead to elevated (hyperuricemia) or lowered (hypouricemia) plasma uric acid levels. Currently, uric acid measurement is considered the best biochemical marker for diagnosing gout due to disorders in purine metabolism.
The main characteristic of gout is hyperuricemia, causing gouty acute arthritis, gouty tophi deposition, chronic gouty arthritis and joint deformities, uric acid kidney stones, and other kidney complications, posing significant health risks. Uric acid measurement also helps in the early diagnosis of kidney complications. Given the severity of its harmful effects, defense is urgent. Here are some foods to help prevent uric acid.
Milk
Milk has various benefits in combating uric acid. Choosing low-fat or skim milk because it is a protein source and contains low purine content. Its trace elements and casein can help lower uric acid levels.
Winter melon
We all know that winter melon is high in water content and virtually fat-free. In addition to this, it is highly nutritious, containing cucurbitacin and citrulline malate, which are greatly beneficial for metabolism and fat reduction. Winter melon has low sodium content, which is helpful in treating hypertension!
Black sesame seeds
Black sesame seeds are highly nutritious and serve as a dual-purpose food with effects like “nourishing the liver and kidneys, replenishing the five internal organs, benefiting essence and blood, and moisturizing the intestines.” Therefore, consuming black sesame seeds appropriately can help balance uric acid levels in the body.
Strawberries
Strawberries, as a type of fruit, are beloved for their appearance and value. They are rich in vitamin C and potassium, which not only prevent various diseases but also help maintain balance in uric acid levels in the body. Therefore, gout patients can consume strawberries frequently.
Bitter gourd
As the saying goes, “Good medicine tastes bitter.” Bitter gourd, as an alkaline food low in purines and fats, has various benefits such as diuretic and antipyretic effects, and can help gout patients expel uric acid. Its abundant vitamins can help achieve a balance in uric acid levels in the body.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain a variety of rich nutrients, such as vitamins, pectin, dietary fiber, etc., making their therapeutic effects significant. They play a major role in cleaning the intestines and improving blood pressure. In the treatment of uric acid, they can help alkalinize urine and dissolve a substantial amount of uric acid.
Celery
Similar to tomatoes, celery is rich in nutrients: carotene, vitamins, fiber, etc. Its effects are comparable to tomatoes, promoting uric acid excretion, preventing uric acid accumulation, and lowering blood pressure. Hence, it is not only a lucky star for uric acid patients but also for hypertension patients.
