How to Flush Uric Acid

Uric acid is a chemical that remains in your blood after consuming foods that contain organic compounds called purines. According to Medline Plus, foods that are high in purines include liver, anchovies, salmon, mackerel and beans. Purines can also be found in alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine. Normally your body sends uric acid to your kidneys for disposal, but sometimes uric acid doesn't dissolve and instead forms crystals around your joints, which can cause redness, swelling and pain. This condition is also known as a form of arthritis called gout, according to Victor Konshin, author of "Beating Gout: A Sufferer's Guide to Living Pain Free." In order to prevent uric acid buildup you can flush your body of the chemical and avoid purine-rich foods.

Things You'll Need

• Probenecid
• Water (bottled or filtered)
• Folic acid supplements

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Instructions

• 1

  Drink eight glasses of water daily. According to Konshin, drinking at least eight 8 oz. glasses of water daily can help your body flush out uric acid as it dilutes the chemical in your body and urine. Avoid alcohol, as it can disrupt your body's natural disposal of uric acid, according to the Mayo Clinic.

• 2

  Avoid eating purine-rich foods. Fish, chicken and beef are just a few meats that contain animal protein, also a source for high levels of purine. Asparagus, lentil, cauliflower, spinach, mushrooms and green peas have a moderate amount of purines. Eliminate them from your diet temporarily until gout symptoms subside. According to Konshin, limit your meats to 5 to 6 oz. per day.

• 3

  Try a healthy meat alternative. Tofu is a healthy alternative to meat as it provides protein without the high levels of saturated fat, purines and cholesterol.

• 4

  Take folic acid supplements. According to Konshin, folic acid can significantly reduce the production of uric acid. Follow the package's directions carefully for correct dosage.

• 5

  Eat foods that are high in soluble fiber. Cherries, apples, apricots, tangerines and oranges are high in soluble fiber, which help flush your kidneys. Soluble fiber vegetables include broccoli, lettuce, corn, potatoes and squash.

• 6

  Take prescription medication. According to the Mayo Clinic, probenecid helps your kidneys flush out uric acid, but can lead to kidney stones, stomach pain and skin rashes.