Optimal levels of uric acid in the blood are good for the body because it has an antioxidant effect on the blood. However, hyperuricemia (high uric acid) is a real health hazard.
Uric acid is a substance that is generated in the body itself by the natural decomposition process of purines. However, the amount of this substance can also be increased by the intake of certain foods and beverages.
Usually, this waste substance is eliminated by the body itself. However, when uric acid is not correctly eliminated through urine, it can be accumulated in the blood; causing different health problems.
Normal amount of uric acid at 40 years of age
Experts explain that the normal amount of uric acid at age 40 in women should be between 2 milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dl) and 4 mg/dl in blood. In men, on the other hand, it can reach up to 6.5 mg/dl without representing a health risk.
So, we speak of hyperuricemia when uric acid values are above 7 mg/dl in men and 6 mg/dl in women. In this case, it would be imperative to establish a treatment to bring the values of this substance towards optimal levels.
One of the main disadvantages of high uric acid is that it does not manifest itself through symptoms. In other words, the only way to accurately diagnose a case of hyperuricemia is through the corresponding blood test.
The main consequence of hyperuricemia is the development of a disease known as gout, which is caused by the accumulation of urate crystals in the joints and in the big toe. The symptoms of gout are intense pain and inflammation in the affected area, which may be accompanied by fever.
In addition, excess uric acid in the blood also increases the risk of kidney stones. A disease such as gout also increases the risk of stroke or diabetes, constituting a cardiovascular risk factor on its own.
Treatment for hyperuricemia
The treatment for hyperuricemia and for gout caused by excess uric acid in the blood is practically the same. The main objective is to bring uric acid levels back to values considered healthy.
Thus, the main treatment consists of a specific food low in purines. In addition, whenever possible, it is appropriate for the patient to increase the regularity of physical exercise, since this activity helps to reduce uric acid in the blood.
In certain cases, your doctor may also prescribe the administration of certain drugs to treat this health condition and to act in addition to diet and physical exercise.
Some of the foods that are richest in purines and therefore should be avoided or their consumption limited are seafood, red meat, sausages, offal, blue fish, beer; and to a lesser extent, some legumes and green leafy vegetables such as asparagus or spinach.
