Uric acid refers to a chemical that is produced as a result of the breakdown of substance known as purines. Purines are part of certain foods and drinks, such as mackerel, anchovies, liver, dried beans and peas, wine, and beer. Most of the uric acid would normally dissolve in the blood itself and thus travel to the kidneys. It is from here that it then passes out in through the process of urination. In the event that your body produces excess uric acid or does not eliminate enough if it, you are bound to feel unwell. The presence of too much uric acid in the body is called hyperuricemia. This may cause an accumulation of urate crystals along the renal organs and also in some of the major joints of the person’s body. Low uric acid levels, thus would be seen as a positive diagnosis relative to the beginning of these conditions and is referred to as hypouricemia.
Causes: Usually insufficient amounts of certain minerals would lead to the levels of uric acid being low. It has been shown that molybdenum deficiency and deficiency of zinc is linked with low levels of uric acid. Multiple sclerosis has also, as a condition, been associated with lower uric acid levels. Along with this Vitamin D deficiency and vitamin B-12 have been shown to cause low levels of uric acid within the body. Also Sevelamer, which is a widely known drug used for preventing hyperphosphataemia (abnormally high phosphate levels in the blood) in patients suffering constant renal failure, could help significantly in reducing serum uric acid.
Treatment: Arthritis and Gout are two of the most common conditions where treatment focuses on ways to control levels uric acid in the person’s body. Generally, alterations in the diet and exercise are suggested ways to lower the uric acid levels and prevent the alleviation of urate crystalline build-up which could lead to joint problems. Lowering the intake of salt and sugar is recommended, while one could also include with it some herb seasonings (marjoram, basil, oregano) and increasing the ingestion of whole wheat bread brown rice and bakery products. Correcting low zinc levels could help increase serum uric acid also Iodine is known to increase the levels of uric acid in the body.
Diet: Water, barley water, coconut water, fruit juices and vegetable juices help increase fluid level in the body. However it should be noted that more than half the fluid is in the form of water. The increase in fluid levels would help to dilute the urine, decrease the acid level and flush the toxins from the body. Low fat dairy products such as tofu, milk, yoghurt are all known to regulate levels of uric acid and preventing kidney stones. Whole grain cereals like rice, pastas should be proffered. However a specialist’s view must be taken before starting any treatment.