High Uric Acid? Know 5 Health Conditions That Could Be the Cause

High uric acid is becoming a common health problem. This condition, known as hyperuricemia, happens when uric acid builds up in the blood. Uric acid comes from purines, chemicals found in foods like red meat, seafood, and alcohol. Normally, the kidneys remove uric acid from the body. But if uric acid increases too much or the kidneys cannot remove it properly, it can form sharp crystals in the joints. This may cause gout, a painful joint condition, or lead to kidney stones.

Dr. Natasha Negalur More, Consultant Rheumatologist at KIMS Hospitals, explains that rising uric acid is not only about food. Certain health problems can also increase the risk. Here are five conditions that may cause high uric acid:

Kidney Disease – If the kidneys are not working well, they cannot remove uric acid efficiently. This leads to a buildup in the blood.

Obesity – Being overweight increases uric acid production and reduces the body’s ability to remove it.

Diabetes – Insulin helps the kidneys remove uric acid. If the body becomes resistant to insulin, uric acid can accumulate.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) – Long-term high blood pressure can harm the kidneys, making uric acid elimination slower. Some blood pressure medicines may also increase uric acid levels.

Hypothyroidism – Low thyroid function can slow metabolism, allowing uric acid to build up in the body.

How diet can help

A healthy diet is important for managing uric acid. Eating the right foods and drinking enough water can prevent complications like gout or kidney stones.

Foods to include:

Low-purine foods: Fresh fruits, vegetables (except high-purine ones), whole grains, and low-fat dairy.

Hydration: Drink 2.5–3 liters of water daily.

Alkaline foods: Cucumber, bottle gourd, spinach, and celery help balance acid levels.

Vitamin C-rich foods: Oranges, guava, berries, and amla may lower uric acid.

Healthy fats: Olive oil, nuts, and seeds help reduce inflammation.

Foods to avoid:

High-purine foods: Red meat, organ meat like liver or kidney, shellfish, and certain fish like sardines.

Alcohol: Especially beer and hard liquor.

Sugary drinks: Soda, packaged juices, and foods with high fructose syrup.

Processed foods: Fried and high-fat snacks.

Key Takeaways

Managing uric acid is more than taking medicine. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, and following a balanced diet can reduce the risk of painful attacks. Limiting alcohol and sugary drinks helps the kidneys work better. Small changes in lifestyle, when followed regularly, can make a big difference for your joints and overall health.