Uric acid is a waste product that is formed when certain foods, such as beer, dried beans, sardines, etc. that are rich in purines, are digested. The kidneys filter and eliminate this natural waste product from the body through urine. A build-up of uric acid in the body is known as hyperuricemia and can result in gout, a condition that affects the joints. If you are wondering how to flush uric acid out of the body, then read on.

Restrict consumption of purine-rich foods
Since uric acid is formed by the digestion of purine-rich foods, the obvious solution is to limit the intake of these types of foods. This includes organ meats such as pork, mutton, turkey, fish and shellfish, and vegetables including cauliflower, mushrooms, green peas, and dried beans.

Avoid excess sugar
Studies have shown that sugar can also cause a build-up of uric acid in the body. Hence, in addition to avoiding table sugar, you should also avoid packaged foods that are high in fructose. Read food labels carefully and check their fructose content in particular, as it can cause high levels of uric acid in the body. Opt for whole foods instead of refined and packaged foods.

Drink more water
Since uric acid is eliminated from the body through urine, one of the main points to keep in mind is to drink plenty of water. Opt for water over sugary drinks and soda. Packaged fruit juices might also not be as healthy as you think, as sometimes they are full of sugars such as fructose and glucose that are not good for you. To ensure that you drink sufficient fluids, you can set an alarm that reminds you to drink water every hour. Carrying a bottle of water with you when you are out and about might also be beneficial.

Avoid or limit alcohol
Alcohol, especially beer, has a high amount of purine, which can result in high uric acid levels. Drinking too many alcoholic drinks can also make you dehydrated and cause a build-up of uric acid.

Manage weight
Fat cells are said to produce more uric acid than muscle cells, so it is important to manage and maintain weight. Also, being overweight can affect the proper functioning of the kidneys. However, losing weight too quickly can also have a negative impact on uric acid levels and the functioning of the kidneys. So, avoid being aggressive with weight loss and consult a doctor or dietician on how to lose weight healthily.

These are some of the ways in which you can keep your uric acid levels in check and avoid painful conditions such as gout.