Uric acid is a waste product that’s created when your body breaks down chemicals called purines. Purines are normally produced in the body and are also found in some foods and drinks. Most uric acid dissolves in your blood, passes through your kidneys and leaves your body in your urine. If your body produces too much uric acid or does not remove enough of it, you can get sick. “Hyperuricemia” is the medical term for having high uric acid levels in your body.
| Uric acid level | Males | Females |
| Normal | 2.5–7.0 mg/dL | 1.5–6.0 mg/dL |
| High | above 7.0 mg/dL | above 6.0 mg/dL |
Purines occur naturally and aren’t harmful in small amounts. But by regularly eating high-purine foods, you can raise your uric acid levels over time. Food and drinks high in purines include:
- Red meat
- Organ meats like liver
- Seafood (especially shell fish and sardines)
- Food and drinks with high fructose corn syrup, such as sodas and sweetened juices
- Alcohol (especially beer)
Hyperuricemia causes uric acid to clump together in sharp crystals. These crystals can settle in your joints and cause gout, a painful form of arthritis. They can also build up in your kidneys and form kidney stones.
While there are several factors that can contribute to high uric acid levels, lifestyle changes and medication can help to lower uric acid levels and prevent these conditions from developing. It is important for individuals to be aware of their uric acid levels and take steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Dr. Divya Vaz