Uric Acid: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Keep It Normal

Uric acid is a waste product that your body makes when it breaks down purines. Purines are found in foods like red meat, beans, and beer. Your liver turns purines into uric acid, then your kidneys filter it out in urine. When the filter works well, the level stays low and you feel fine.

Why Uric Acid Levels Rise

Too much uric acid can happen for two main reasons. First, you might eat a lot of high‑purine foods or drink sugary drinks that boost production. Second, your kidneys might not clear it fast enough because of dehydration, certain medicines, or a health condition like kidney disease.

Genetics also play a part. Some people inherit a slower kidney transport system, so they keep more uric acid in the blood. Even a short‑term, heavy binge of beer can push levels up quickly because alcohol stops the kidneys from excreting uric acid.

Simple Ways to Lower Uric Acid

Drink plenty of water. Aim for at least eight glasses a day; water helps the kidneys flush out excess uric acid. Swap high‑purine meals for lower‑purine options like dairy, most fruits, and vegetables.

Cut back on sugary sodas and alcohol. Both raise uric acid and can trigger gout attacks. If you take medicines such as diuretics, talk to your doctor about alternatives or a dose change.

Maintain a healthy weight. Extra body fat makes the body produce more uric acid and stresses the kidneys. Even a modest loss of 5‑10% can lower levels noticeably.

Some foods naturally help. Cherries, especially tart ones, contain compounds that reduce uric acid and inflammation. Including a cup of cherries or a splash of cherry juice each day can make a difference.

If diet changes aren’t enough, your doctor may suggest medication. Drugs like allopurinol lower production, while probenecid helps the kidneys excrete more uric acid. Always follow medical advice and never start medicine on your own.

Keep an eye on your uric acid with regular blood tests, especially if you’ve had gout attacks before. Knowing your numbers lets you act before a painful flare occurs.

When you get a lab result, a level under 6 mg/dL for women and under 7 mg/dL for men is usually considered normal. If you see higher numbers, bring them to your doctor’s attention and discuss lifestyle tweaks or medication options.

If you feel sudden, sharp pain in the big toe, swelling, and redness, you could be having a gout flare. Seek medical care right away to get treatment that can stop the pain fast.

Bottom line: uric acid is a normal part of metabolism, but too much can lead to gout and kidney stones. Simple steps—stay hydrated, eat smarter, limit alcohol, and manage weight—keep it in check without drastic changes.