How to Bring Down Uric Acid

Uric acid is a byproduct of protein metabolism. If you have an excess amount in your blood, you can suffer a form of arthritis known as gout. With gout, the uric acid crystallizes, which causes tender swollen joints. You can do several things to reduce the production of uric acid and promote excretion from the body.

Instructions

• 1

  Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. It will help the body flush out excess uric acid. It also inhibits crystallization of uric acid.

• 2

  Reduce or eliminate your intake of meat and shellfish. The purines in these animal products are the biggest culprit for uric acid buildup.

• 3

  Curtail or eliminate consumption of caffeine and alcohol because they both encourage uric acid production.

• 4

  Eat more fiber rich foods or take a fiber supplement. Fiber rich foods include fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Adequate fiber intake helps move excess uric acid through the stool. This keeps it from being reabsorbed by your body.

• 5

  Talk to your doctor if you suffer frequent gout attacks even with dietary changes. He can give you medication that lowers uric acid levels. Take them as directed and do not alter doses or stop medication without talking to him.