AnnaMaria
A rise in uric acid levels can bring on a range of uncomfortable—and sometimes serious—problems, like fever, joint pain and swelling, cracked skin, bone erosion, and cellulitis in soft tissue.
Historically, this was called the “disease of kings.” Why? It often affected those who indulged in rich foods and plenty of alcohol—two habits linked to higher uric acid in the body.
While some foods can raise your uric acid, the good news is that others may actually help lower it. Here are a few smart choices to include in your meals:
Foods That Help Reduce Uric Acid
Berries
Brightly colored berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and cherries are packed with bioflavonoids called proanthocyanidins and anthocyanidins. These natural compounds help protect collagen and reduce the inflammation triggered by uric acid.
Apples
Apples are rich in malic acid, which helps neutralize purine production. Purines—found in foods like anchovies, onions, beans, and beer—are broken down by the body into uric acid. Adding apples to your diet can offer some natural balance.
Pinto Beans
These beans are a great source of folic acid and have low purine content. Chickpeas and black beans also contain only small amounts of purines, making them a good plant-based protein choice if you’re watching uric acid levels.
Parsley
More than just a garnish, parsley acts as a natural diuretic, helping your body flush out excess uric acid. It contains quercetin and kaempferol, two compounds known for their uric acid–lowering properties. Try adding fresh parsley to your meals or blending it into drinks.
Lime
Lime juice is a simple, natural remedy. The juice acts as a solvent for uric acid. Just squeeze the juice of half a lime into a glass of water and drink twice daily.
What to Watch For
The first sign of too much uric acid often shows up as pain and swelling in the big toe, a condition called Podagra. If you notice any symptoms or sudden joint pain, don’t wait—reach out to your healthcare provider right away. Your health should always come first.
There it is—making the right food choices can play a big part in managing uric acid and protecting your joints for the long run.
