Are you a foodie who loves to indulge in all the rich, flavorful foods the world has to offer? While indulging in your favourite treats every now and then can be a delightful experience, it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with consuming certain foods in excess. One such risk is hyperuricemia - a condition that occurs when there's too much uric acid in your blood.
Speaking with the editorial team of OnlyMyHealth, Dr Sabine Kapasi, Gynaecologist, IVF Specialist, and public health leader at UNDAC & Geneva explains about hyperuricemia and the associated health risks of it. Here is what she shared with us.
Uric acid is a waste product that's created when the body breaks down purines, which are found in many types of food and drink - including some of the most delicious ones. In small amounts, uric acid is harmless and is excreted from the body without issue. But when uric acid levels get too high, they can lead to the formation of crystals, which can cause inflammation and pain, particularly in the joints. This condition is known as gout, and it's not just an old-timey disease - it affects millions of people worldwide today.
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But gout is just one of the many health risks associated with hyperuricemia. Elevated uric acid levels have been linked to a variety of other conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease. In fact, research has shown that people with hyperuricemia are at a higher risk of developing these conditions, even if they don't have any other risk factors.
So, what can you do to reduce your risk of hyperuricemia and its associated health problems? One of the simplest things is to be mindful of your diet. That doesn't mean you have to give up all your favourite foods - it just means being aware of how much you're consuming and trying to balance it out with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Foods that are particularly high in purines include organ meats (such as liver and kidneys), red meat, seafood (especially shellfish), and certain types of alcohol (such as beer and spirits). Consuming these foods and drinks in moderation is generally fine for most people, but if you're prone to hyperuricemia or gout, it's a good idea to be more cautious.
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In addition to watching your diet, there are medications available that can help to lower uric acid levels and reduce the risk of gout attacks. These include drugs that help the kidneys to excrete uric acid more efficiently, as well as medications that block the production of uric acid altogether.
It's worth noting that hyperuricemia isn't always symptomatic - only about one-third of people with the condition experience noticeable symptoms. This means that even if you're not experiencing any pain or discomfort, it's still important to be aware of your uric acid levels and take steps to keep them in check.
So, the next time you're tempted to indulge in that juicy steak or glass of fine wine, remember the high price of indulgence. By being mindful of your diet and seeking treatment if needed, you can reduce your risk of hyperuricemia and keep your body healthy for years to come, shares Dr Kapasi.
