Uric acid is a natural waste product of purine metabolism. Purine is an element that is produced naturally in our body and is also found in some foods. When purines break down, uric acid is formed, which the body normally expels through urine.
But when purine-rich diet is consumed in excess, the body is unable to completely eliminate uric acid and its level starts increasing in the blood. Purines are also produced naturally in our bodies and are also found in some foods such as red meat, organ meats, seafood and alcohol. When purines are broken down during their metabolism, uric acid is formed. The kidney filters this uric acid from the blood and removes it from the body through urine. Through this process the level of uric acid in the body remains balanced.
There are some foods which rapidly increase the level of uric acid. Some foods contain high amounts of purines, excessive consumption of which can increase uric acid. These foods include red meat and organ meats, sea-foods, beer and alcohol, high protein and processed foods. Apart from this, obesity, dehydration, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome and some medicines can also cause increase in uric acid. Researchers found that when the level of uric acid in the blood goes above 6.8 mg/dL, it starts changing from liquid state to solid crystals.
Symptoms of high uric acid which should not be ignored at all
When the level of uric acid in the blood increases, the body starts giving signals about it. Its common symptoms are severe pain in the joints, especially in the big toe, swelling and redness in the joints, difficulty in getting up and down, accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, frequent gout attacks, constipation, fatigue and weakness, dry skin.
What do expert opinion and research say?
Dr. G., Clinical Dietitian and Consultant, Care Hospital, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. According to Sushma, increased levels of uric acid can cause hyperuricemia, due to which urate crystals start accumulating in the joints. This later becomes the cause of arthritis and other problems. An important study proving the link between uric acid and diet was published in 'The New England Journal of Medicine' (NEJM) in 2004, which was further strengthened with updated data in 2012.
In this research, known as Health Professionals Follow-up Study, 47,150 men were studied continuously for 12 years. The findings of this research show that men who consumed high amounts of purines in their diet such as red meat and seafood were found to have 41% higher risk of increased uric acid and gout compared to others. At the same time, the analysis of the same research also revealed that regular intake of Vitamin C helps in eliminating uric acid through the kidneys, thereby reducing the possibility of painful crystals forming in the joints.
Home remedy Amla which works like medicine
Amla is considered a very effective Ayurvedic remedy to control uric acid. For those people whose uric acid increases during the changing seasons, Amla is no less than a medicine.
How does Amla control uric acid?
Amla can be taken as whole fruit, juice or powder. The abundant amount of Vitamin C present in it helps in eliminating uric acid through the kidneys. Due to this, the level of uric acid in the blood starts decreasing gradually. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties present in Amla are helpful in reducing joint swelling and pain.
The treasure of health is hidden in Amla
Many essential nutrients are found in Amla like calcium, iron, phosphorus, anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. All these elements together help in controlling uric acid and keeping the kidneys healthy. The findings of the research published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology and Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine which were conducted in 2011 and 2022. This research was mainly done on rats in the laboratory. Uric acid was artificially increased in rats through potassium oxonate (Hyperuricemia). After this he was given Amla extract. Amla improves the filtration rate of the kidneys. Due to this, the uric acid accumulated in the blood comes out of the body through urine.
Amazing benefits of eating Amla
Consuming Amla strengthens immunity and prevents seasonal diseases. Amla improves digestion, gives relief from constipation, gas and acidity. This herb helps in removing toxins from the body. It reduces joint pain and swelling, reduces the risk of gout. This herb helps in controlling weight by boosting metabolism. Diabetic patients can eat Amla daily to control blood sugar and increase insulin sensitivity. Consumption of Amla strengthens the bones and also proves to be effective in cleaning the kidneys.
conclusion
If uric acid is not controlled in time, it can cause arthritis and serious joint problems. Uric acid can be controlled naturally by adopting proper diet, adequate water and home remedies like Amla. However, it is important to consult a doctor before adopting any home remedy.
Disclaimer
This story has been prepared for general information purposes. Before making any health-related changes or changes in diet, consult your doctor.
