How to lower uric acid levels naturally and manage gout

Dietary measures, medications, and supplements can all help reduce uric acid and manage gout. Gout can occur when blood uric acid levels are too high, causing crystals to form in the feet, toes, and other joints.
Uric acid is a chemical the body creates when it breaks down purines. The body creates purines, and some foods and drinks also contain them. Lowering uric acid can reduce the risk of gout and help prevent flares. Read on to learn about natural ways to help lower uric acid levels.
1. Limit purine-rich foods
Purines are compounds that occur naturally in some foods. As the body breaks them down, it produces uric acid. The process of metabolizing purine-rich foods causes the production of excess uric acid, which may lead to gout. Some otherwise nutritious foods contain a high amount of purines, which means a person may wish to reduce their intake instead of eliminating them all.
Foods with high purine content include:
wild game, such as deer (venison)
some fish and seafood, such as:
• trout
• tuna
• haddock
• sardines
• anchovies
• mussels
• herring
• high fat foods, such as bacon, dairy products, and red meat, including veal
• organ meats, such as liver and sweetbreads
• sugary foods and beverages
• some alcohol, including beer and liquor
Foods with moderate purine content include:
pork
ham
chicken
beef
duck
some shellfish, such as:
oyster
shrimp
crab
lobster
2. Eat more low purine foods
While some foods are high in purines, others feature lower amounts. A person may include them in their diet to help lower their uric acid levels. Some foods with low purine content include:
low fat and fat-free dairy products
peanut butter and most nuts
most fruits and vegetables
rice
bread
potatoes
pasta
3. Avoid medications that raise uric acid levels. Certain medications may elevate uric acid levels. These include:
diuretics, such as furosemide (Lasix) and hydrochlorothiazide
drugs that suppress the immune system
low dose aspirin
It is important to contact a doctor before stopping or changing any medications. Drugs that raise uric acid levels may offer essential health benefits
4. Maintain a moderate weight
Maintaining a moderate weight can help lower blood uric acid levels and improve overall health. Experts recommend that people focus on making long-term, sustainable changes to manage their weight, such as becoming more active, eating a balanced diet, and choosing nutrient-dense foods.
5. Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks
Consuming a lot of alcohol and sugary drinks — such as sodas and sweetened juices — correlates with an increased risk of developing gout. Alcohol and sweetened drinks also add unnecessary calories to the diet, potentially causing weight gain and metabolic issues, leading to increased uric acid levels.
6. Drink coffee
Research from 2015 indicates that people who drink coffee are less likely to develop gout.
A 2016 meta-analysis e of 11 studies concluded that there might be a link between drinking coffee and having a lower risk of gout. However, there was insufficient evidence of a strong association.
7. Increase vitamin C intake
In a 2021 review , researchers noted that many previous studies show a positive link between vitamin C intake and blood uric acid levels. However, while they noted this effect, they also stated that no study had found conclusive evidence that vitamin C can prevent or reduce gout attacks. A person’s doctor can advise on whether they recommend taking vitamin C supplements or increasing their vitamin C intake.
8. Eat cherries
According to a 2019 study , scientists noted several properties of cherries that may help reduce inflammation. However, they also noted that additional studies into the effects of cherries on gout are necessary.
9. Try supplements
Certain supplements may help with lowering blood uric acid levels.
Some potentially beneficial supplements include:
vitamin C
omega-3 fatty acid
folic acid
turmeric capsules
It is best to contact a doctor for advice before taking supplements. They can make sure the supplements will not interfere with any current medications.
10. Increase dietary fiber
A high fiber diet may help reduce blood uric acid levels. Individuals can find fiber in various foods, including:
whole grains
fruits
vegetables
Frequently asked questions
Here are answers to common questions about uric acid levels.
How can I lower uric acid quickly?
Making dietary changes may help lower uric acid levels. A doctor may also recommend taking supplements and stopping certain medications.
What foods reduce uric acid?
Consuming foods low in purines can help reduce uric acid levels. These include some dairy products, peanut butter and nuts, potatoes, pasta, rice, and more.
What is the best drink to flush uric acid?
According to the Arthritis Foundation, drinking water can help flush uric acid from the system.
Summary
There are various steps a person can take to manage uric acid levels naturally. These include making dietary changes, maintaining a moderate weight, and avoiding certain medications.
People can contact a doctor to discuss their symptoms and ask for advice on lifestyle changes that could help. The doctor can advise on other treatments to help manage gout.
By Jenna Fletcher — Updated on October 27, 2023