Uric acid is a normal and natural byproduct formed by the breaking down of purines by the body. Purines are found in specific types of food, and they come up when cells die and go apart. Examples of some of the food containing purines are sardines, dried beans, meat, and beer. In most cases, the uric acid in the human body leaves the body when urination takes place.
If an individual consumes too many purines, it may lead to high uric acid in the blood due to a buildup. High uric acid is called hyperuricemia [1], and it may signify health conditions like gout, which leads to painful joints. When a person has high uric acid, it may be due to genetics, stress, obesity, and, most commonly, diet. For this reason, there is a need to avoid purine-rich foods if you have high uric acid.
Here are some of the foods you should avoid if you have a high uric acid:
Organ Meats
Organ meats are also called “offal.” Generally, they are high in purine. For this reason, it’s essential to avoid them. Consumption of organ meats will lead to an increase in uric acid levels, leading to dreadful gout [2] symptoms when they build up in the joints. Some examples of the organ meats to avoid are liver, kidneys, sweetbreads, and brain.
Besides, organ meats are also high in cholesterol and saturated fats. Hence, it may also be dangerous to take this type of meat if the individual struggles with heart diseases. Besides, there may be concerns surrounding the fact that animals exposed to pesticides and toxins will have a level of toxicity in their organs.