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Uric acid is a chemical that is found in the blood of human beings. Under normal circumstances, uric acid is removed from the body by the kidneys which filter the substance out of the blood and into the urinary bladder where it remains until urination. Uric acid is produced when certain types of food and drink are consumed. These items contain purines which are substances that, when broken down, produce uric acid. Beer and wine contain purines. Some uric acid foods include dried beans, peas and mackerel and liver.
The consumption of foods that contain uric acid will lead to a higher concentration of uric acid in the blood. However, the body should be equipped to remove this substance from the blood via the kidneys. If there is a failure of the kidney to perform its function properly, then the individual may suffer from hyperuricemia which is a condition where the blood contains too much uric acid. There are many conditions that can cause high amounts of uric acid to be present in the blood. These conditions include gout, diabetes, alcohol poisoning, acidosis, and kidney failure. This is not an exhaustive list of conditions as there are other conditions that may cause the same symptoms as well.
Excessively high uric acid concentration in the blood leads to many different problems. These include the formation of uric acid stones in the urinary system. In order to avoid any problems associated with excessive uric acid levels, one can avoid foods containing uric acid as per uric acid diet. This will ensure that the blood concentration of uric acid is not too high. Another step that can be taken by an individual to reduce the amount of uric acid built up in the system is to consume plenty of water. Water is absorbed by the body and some of it is passed out through urine. Frequent urination will help to remove various toxins from the body. Another advantage of this is that the urine concentration will be low as there is plenty of water available for disposal. This low concentration ensures that there is no damage to the lining of the urinary bladder or the urethra. Damage caused to any of these parts can lead to the development of urinary tract infections. These infections cause pain and can hinder the functioning of the urinary system. In general one can assume that meat products fall into the category of foods containing uric acid. Beef, pork and poultry products should therefore be consumed only in moderation. Many people who suffer from uric acid issues tend to consume red meat along with red wine. Since both these products are high in purines, it is likely that the individuals will suffer, even if temporarily, from uric acid concentration.
It should be noted that excessive exercise also contributes to a higher level of uric acid in the blood stream. Because of this, the individual should avoid consuming excessive quantities of meats immediately before or after exercise, although it is ok to do so later.
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