High Uric Acid: What It Is and How to Get It Under Control

Uric acid is a waste product your body makes when it breaks down purines, which are found in many foods and cells. When the kidneys can't clear it fast enough, levels climb and you may feel pain, notice gout flares, or develop kidney stones. Knowing why the number spikes and what you can change makes a big difference for daily comfort.

Why Uric Acid Rises

Three main things push the level up: diet, dehydration, and metabolism. Eating a lot of red meat, organ meats, shellfish, or sugary drinks floods your bloodstream with purines. Alcohol, especially beer, not only adds purines but also interferes with kidney function. Even if you eat a balanced diet, being chronically under‑hydrated means your kidneys have less fluid to dissolve and excrete the acid.

Genetics also play a role—some people simply clear uric acid slower. Conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, and insulin resistance make the kidneys work harder, so the same amount of purines can cause a higher spike.

Practical Ways to Lower Your Levels

Start with water. Aim for at least eight glasses a day, more if you exercise or live in a hot climate. Water dilutes the acid and helps the kidneys flush it out.

Swap out high‑purine foods for lower‑purine alternatives. Choose chicken breast, tofu, or legumes instead of organ meats. Limit seafood to a few servings per week and replace sugary sodas with sparkling water infused with a slice of lemon.

Cut back on alcohol, especially beer. If you do drink, keep it to occasional, moderate servings and pair it with plenty of water.

Maintain a healthy weight. Even a modest 5‑10% loss can improve kidney function and reduce insulin resistance, both of which help lower uric acid.

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, talk to a doctor about medications such as allopurinol or febuxostat. These drugs reduce production of uric acid and are proven to prevent gout attacks.

Finally, watch for warning signs: sudden joint pain, especially at the big toe, or cloudy urine that may signal kidney stones. Early detection lets you act before the problem worsens.

Managing high uric acid doesn’t require a complete overhaul. Simple tweaks—more water, smarter food choices, and regular activity—often bring the numbers down and keep you feeling better.