Uric acid is a natural waste product produced by the body when it breaks down purines (molecules found in certain foods and drinks).

The kidneys usually eliminate uric acid from the body, but high levels can lead to hyperuricemia, a condition that can cause gout, kidney problems, and joint pain.

If you have high uric acid levels, you may need to avoid specific foods and drinks to lower your levels. Here are some dietary tips for lowering uric acid and the foods to avoid:.

1. Avoid High-Purine Foods

Purines, a natural substance found in certain foods, is broken down into uric acid in the body. People with high uric acid levels should avoid high-purine foods, such as:.

Organ meats (liver, kidneys, sweetbreads)
Game meats (venison, elk, etc.)
Meat extracts and broths
Seafood (sardines, anchovies, mussels, shrimp, scallops, etc.)
Heavily processed foods (hot dogs, sausages, etc.)

2. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption can increase uric acid levels, leading to gout attacks. People with high uric acid should limit alcohol consumption or avoid it entirely. Beer, in particular, is high in purines and should be avoided.

3. Avoid Sugary Drinks

People with high uric acid should also avoid sugary drinks, including soda and fruit juice. These drinks can increase uric acid levels and lead to gout attacks.

4. Limit Fructose Intake

Fructose, a type of sugar, can also increase uric acid levels. People with high uric acid should limit their intake of sugary and high-fructose foods, including:.

Soda and other sweetened drinks
Fruit juice
Candy and sweets
Processed foods with added sugars (cookies, cakes, etc.)

5. Avoid High-Fat Foods

High-fat foods can also increase uric acid levels and lead to gout attacks. People with high uric acid should avoid or limit their intake of high-fat foods, including:.

Fried foods
High-fat dairy products (cheese, cream, whole milk, etc.)
Processed foods with added fats and oils (chips, crackers, etc.)

6. Limit your Salt Intake

High levels of salt intake can cause the body to retain uric acid, leading to high levels and gout attacks. People with high uric acid should avoid or limit their intake of high-sodium foods, including:.

Processed foods (chips, crackers, etc.)
Canned foods
Fast food
Snack foods

7. Avoid Soy Products

Soy products contain purines that can raise uric acid levels. People with high uric acid should limit their intake of soy products, including:.

Soy milk
Soy sauce
Tofu
Edamame

8. Avoid Yeast Products

Yeast products, including yeast extract, can also increase uric acid levels. People with high uric acid should avoid or limit their intake of yeast products, including:.

Yeast extract spreads
Brewer’s yeast
Beer
Bread and baked goods containing yeast

9. Limit Meat Consumption

While meat is not entirely off-limits for people with high uric acid, it is essential to limit meat consumption. Opt for lean meats and avoid high-purine meats such as organ meats, game meats, and processed meats.

10. Avoid High-Oxalate Foods

High-oxalate foods can also cause uric acid levels to rise. People with high uric acid should limit their intake of high-oxalate foods, including:.

Spinach
Rhubarb
Beetroot
Chocolate
Nuts and nut butters

Lowering uric acid levels can be achieved through a combination of dietary changes and lifestyle modifications.

If you are concerned about your uric acid levels or experience gout attacks, speak to a doctor or a registered dietitian to devise a personalized plan to help manage your condition.