Simple Teaching: Uric Acid

What is Uric Acid?

Before you start taking actions to lower uric acid levels naturally, it's important to understand what uric acid is, where it comes from, why high levels can lead to gout, and why you need to reduce high uric acid levels in the blood.

So, first things first: What is uric acid?

• Uric acid is a by-product of the chemical breakdown of compounds called purines that exist in our bodies' cells and in our food. Purines are very important to us because they provide energy and protein, among other important components. During those processes, uric acid is produced in the bloodstream.
• Uric acid is good for us because it acts as an antioxidant and helps look after the internal linings of our blood vessels. It's our kidneys' job to process the uric acid produced and excrete waste out of our bodies through our urine, or also a little through our stools.

Foods that contain high levels of purine

What Causes High Uric Acid in Blood?

While the kidneys usually maintain uric acid at healthy levels, there are times when they are unable to do this. In turn, what results is that excess uric acid is retained in, and circulates in, the blood.

Two of the main causes for high uric acid levels in blood are:

• The kidneys aren't working to their full potential. They are unable to process and expel sufficient uric acid quickly enough, or
• There is too much uric acid being produced by the metabolizing purines for healthy kidneys to process.

Reduced Kidney Function

Whatever is the case, the result is high uric acid in the blood.

What is the Result of High Uric Acid Levels in the Body?

• Hyperuricemia: High uric acid levels in the blood is a condition known as hyperuricemia. Over time, this can lead to the production of uric acid crystals. Technically speaking, these are crystals of monosodium urate, which can settle in the joints, tendons and surrounding tissue.

• The body reacts defensively. The crystals are needle-like in shape and are looked upon as foreign objects by the body's natural defenses. In turn, the body's natural anti-inflammatory processes working against these crystals are what actually cause gout symptoms such as redness, swelling, heat, inflammation, stiffness, and very great pain.

Uric acid crystals observed under microscope

These are the symptoms of a gout attack. In other words, high uric acid can lead to gout, which is why it's important to decrease uric acid levels in the body.

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Oils and Heart Health

Does heart-healthy eating mean no oils, ever? You might be surprised to learn the answer. Oils contain fats, and your body needs fat for energy and to support the growth of cells. Not all fats are created equal, though, and they affect your body in different ways. It’s important to understand which oils have “good” fats and which have “bad” fats so you can make healthy choices in your diet.

The “Good” Fats in Oil

When eaten in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet, some fats can help lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. These “good” fats are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that are liquid, plant-based oils, including: 

• Canola oil 
• Flax Seed oil
• Olive oil 
• Safflower oil 
• Sesame oil 
• Sunflower seed oil

Avocados, peanut butter, and some nuts and seeds also have “good” fats.

The “Bad” Fats in Oil

Some oils can raise your cholesterol level, which can raise your risk for heart disease. These “bad” fats are saturated and trans fats, and can be found in foods like: 

• Fatty cuts of meat, poultry skin, and butter 
• Whole or 2% milk, cream, and cheese 
• Coconut, palm kernel, and palm oils 
• Sweets and desserts 
• Processed and packaged foods 

"Bad" Fats always are tempting

Making Healthy Choices

A heart-healthy diet includes plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, fish, and lean proteins. When choosing your oils, be sure to stick with the “good” fats in moderation, and to limit the “bad” fats as much as you can.

Your choice to eat healthy

It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor about what is best for you based on your family history and risk factors. Your doctor might suggest talking with a registered dietitian, an expert on diet and nutrition, to help you figure out how to make healthy choices and still enjoy your favorite foods and flavors.

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