Uric acid is a natural waste product formed when the body breaks down purines from foods like organ meats, beef, wine, and beer. A blood uric acid level below 6,5 mg/dl (380 μmol/liter) is considered safe. Elevated levels can lead to urate crystal formation, causing arthritis, kidney stones, reduced kidney function, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Many believe that simply limiting red meat and alcohol is enough to control uric acid. However, many individuals still experience high uric acid levels despite a healthy diet, as various factors can influence this indicator.

**Poor kidney excretion** is a primary reason for elevated uric acid. According to Times of India, the kidneys filter and excrete most uric acid through urine. If kidney function declines or the excretion process is inefficient, uric acid gradually accumulates in the blood. This condition is often linked to age, chronic kidney disease, or metabolic disorders. Consequently, uric acid levels can rise even without consuming many purine-rich foods.

**Overweight and insulin resistance** also contribute significantly. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, impacting uric acid excretion. When insulin resistance occurs, the kidneys tend to retain more uric acid instead of excreting it through urine. Excess fat, especially visceral fat, also disrupts metabolism, prompting the body to produce more uric acid.

Fruit tea is one of the many sugary drinks. *Thuy Hanh*

**High intake of sugary drinks** is another common culprit. Soft drinks, milk tea, or bottled fruit juices often contain high levels of fructose. When metabolized in the liver, fructose increases uric acid production. Additionally, fructose depletes cellular energy, promoting purine formation and leading to elevated uric acid levels.

**Genetic factors** play a role in some individuals. Some carry gene variants that affect uric acid transport proteins in the kidneys, making the body less efficient at excreting this substance. This means they are more prone to high uric acid levels than others, even with a scientific diet. If there is a family history of gout or diagnosed high uric acid, the risk of experiencing a similar condition is higher. While this factor cannot be changed, it can be managed through lifestyle and regular health monitoring, according to WebMD.

**Certain medications** can also cause uric acid levels to rise as a side effect. For example, diuretics, often used to treat high blood pressure or heart failure, can reduce the kidneys' ability to excrete uric acid. If blood tests show an unexplained increase in uric acid, patients should discuss their current medications with a doctor. Patients should not stop medication independently, as this could affect the management of underlying conditions.

**Rapid weight loss or prolonged fasting** can paradoxically increase uric acid. While weight loss benefits individuals with high uric acid, losing weight too quickly can be counterproductive. During fasting or severe calorie restriction, the body breaks down more tissue for energy, increasing endogenous purine production, which in turn raises uric acid levels. Substances produced during fat burning also compete with uric acid for kidney excretion, leading to a temporary increase. Overweight individuals should lose weight gradually through a balanced diet combined with scientific exercise.

Finally, **chronic diseases** can impair uric acid regulation. Individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes, or fatty liver disease often have a reduced ability to excrete uric acid. Some diseases also disrupt metabolic processes in the body, leading to increased uric acid production. Therefore, if only dietary changes are made without adequately controlling underlying conditions, uric acid levels can remain high long-term.

Le Nguyen (Compiled)