Articles

How people with kidney disease manage uric acid levels with diet and nutrition

Published on 
January 31, 2023
Sign up to our newsletter

Join our newsletter to stay up to date on features and releases.

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Description

Uric acid is a waste product that is produced when the body breaks down purines, which are found in many foods. High levels of uric acid can lead to a condition called gout, which is a type of arthritis that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. People with kidney disease are at a higher risk of developing gout and high uric acid levels, as the kidneys play a crucial role in removing uric acid from the body.

Managing uric acid levels with diet and nutrition can be an effective way to prevent gout and other complications associated with high uric acid levels. Here are some tips for people with kidney disease to help manage their uric acid levels:

Limit purine-rich foods: Purines are found in high amounts in organ meats, such as liver and kidney, as well as in certain types of fish, such as anchovies and sardines. Avoiding these foods or limiting consumption can help reduce uric acid levels.

Increase intake of fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants and other nutrients that can help reduce inflammation and lower uric acid levels. Aim for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day.

Drink plenty of water: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out uric acid and other waste products from the body. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day.

Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol can increase the production of uric acid and also lead to dehydration, which can exacerbate high uric acid levels. It is best to avoid alcohol or at least limit consumption.

How Monitor your weight: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of high uric acid levels and gout. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help reduce the risk of high uric acid levels.

Consult with a dietitian: A registered dietitian can help create a personalized diet plan that takes into account the specific needs of someone with kidney disease.

It is important to remember that managing uric acid levels with diet and nutrition should be done in conjunction with other treatments recommended by a healthcare professional. This may include medications and regular monitoring of uric acid levels. With the right approach and a healthy lifestyle, it is possible to effectively manage uric acid levels and reduce the risk of gout and other complications associated with high uric acid levels.

The Kidney Ally Nutrition Course

Did you find this helpful? Are you or a loved one living with chronic kidney disease? Do you struggle with making healthy food choices that are personalized for your specific needs? Introducing the Kidney Ally Nutrition Course! Our fully personalized course is the most affordable nutrition course online. You get dozens of video tutorials on how to make healthy food choices tailored to your specific condition for less than $1 per week. With our expert guidance and easy-to-follow tutorials, you'll learn how to make delicious and nutritious meals that will help you feel your best. Don't let kidney disease control your diet, take control with the Kidney Ally Nutrition Course. Sign up now and start your journey to better health today > www.kidneyally.com/education

Author - Ruth Kander

Ruth Kander is a highly experienced dietitian with 26 years of service in both the NHS and private practice. She holds registrations with the British Dietetic Association and the Health and Care Professions Council. Ruth graduated from King’s College London in 1995 with an honours degree in Nutrition and a post-graduate diploma in Dietetics. Specializing in kidney medicine for the past 23 years, she currently works as a specialist kidney dietitian at a large London teaching hospital. Ruth has also been involved in several community projects, including healthy eating in schools and clinical governance in care homes. An accomplished lecturer, she has received awards for her education programs and patient care. Passionate about helping people with chronic kidney disease to be healthy and feel well, she is dedicated to providing support and guidance to help individuals make the best food choices for themselves.