The Poison That Slowly Poisons Our Body From Within: Don’t Let It Happen!
One of the most important indicators of the body’s overall health and functioning is the level of uric acid in the blood and urine. Ignoring abnormal changes in uric acid levels—whether they are too high or too low—can be dangerous because these changes often signal underlying problems in vital organs such as the liver and kidneys. Understanding what uric acid is, why its levels might increase, and how to manage it is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing serious complications.
What Is Uric Acid?
Uric acid is a chemical compound composed of nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. It is produced naturally in the liver during the breakdown of substances called purines. Purines are found in many foods, including liver, legumes (such as beans and lentils), and beer. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood, passes through the kidneys, and is excreted in urine.
In the body, uric acid is present in small amounts in blood, sweat, urine, and tissues of the brain and liver. Its salts, called urates, form crystals and deposits in urine. These urates originate from the uric acid itself. The concentration of uric acid in urine is measured by urinalysis, while blood levels are determined through biochemical blood tests.
Normal vs. Elevated Uric Acid Levels
While normal levels of uric acid serve important functions in the body, excessive amounts are harmful and often referred to as a “poison” that damages the body internally.
The positive roles of uric acid in the body include:
Enhancing the effects of catecholamines (stress hormones) on body cells.
Activating brain functions and other parts of the nervous system.
Protecting the body from damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that can harm cells.
Regulating the quality of cells throughout the body.
However, when uric acid levels in the blood rise beyond normal, it is a serious warning sign of potential diseases or organ dysfunctions. Such elevations require detailed investigations and appropriate treatment.
Normal Uric Acid Levels According to Age and Gender
Children: Normal uric acid levels in children range from 120 to 330 micromoles per liter (µmol/L).
Men: Men under 60 years typically have uric acid levels between 250 and 400 µmol/L. Men over 60 may have levels ranging from 250 to 480 µmol/L.
Women: Women generally have slightly lower levels. Those under 60 years should maintain between 200 and 300 µmol/L, while women over 60 may have levels between 210 and 430 µmol/L.
What Causes High Uric Acid Levels?
Elevated uric acid, known as hyperuricemia, can be caused by a variety of conditions:
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure):
Persistent high blood pressure can damage the kidneys, reducing their ability to eliminate uric acid, leading to hyperuricemia. Cardiologists and general physicians often advise patients to manage blood pressure and diet carefully to reduce uric acid levels.
Gout:
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by increased synthesis of purines and the deposition of uric acid crystals in joints and tissues. The kidneys are frequently affected, potentially leading to renal failure. Along with joint pain, gout may cause skin deposits of uric acid crystals called tophi under the skin. Treatment involves a strict diet and medications to promote uric acid excretion.
Endocrine Disorders:
Overactive parathyroid glands increase calcium levels in the blood, which can raise uric acid levels. Diabetes mellitus also disrupts metabolism broadly, including purine metabolism, often causing elevated uric acid.
Obesity and Overweight:
Though excess weight does not directly alter purine metabolism, it significantly increases the risk of hypertension, gout, and diabetes—all of which contribute to high uric acid.
High Cholesterol and Atherosclerosis:
Hyperuricemia frequently coexists with high cholesterol and atherosclerosis, conditions that damage blood vessels and the heart.
Blood Disorders:
Diseases like polycythemia, anemia, leukemia, and hemolysis cause increased tissue breakdown. This releases more purine bases, which convert into uric acid, raising blood levels.
Other Causes:
Severe burns, Down syndrome, unbalanced diets high in protein, excessive physical exertion, and certain medications (such as furosemide, aspirin, and theophylline) may also elevate uric acid.
Simple Natural Remedies to Reduce Uric Acid
Managing uric acid doesn’t always require expensive drugs. Many natural remedies used traditionally can help lower uric acid levels safely and effectively.
Nettle Juice:
Take 5 milliliters of freshly squeezed nettle juice daily before each meal. Nettle acts as a natural diuretic, helping the kidneys flush out excess uric acid.
Birch Leaf Decoction:
Take 20 grams of chopped fresh or dried birch leaves and pour 250 milliliters of boiling water over them. Simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, then cover and let steep for 30 minutes. Drink 50 milliliters of this decoction three to four times daily before meals. Birch leaves promote detoxification and have anti-inflammatory properties.
The Danger of Ignoring Elevated Uric Acid: The Internal Poison
Excess uric acid is essentially a toxin that “poisons” the body from within. It silently damages the kidneys, joints, heart, and other organs, often causing irreversible harm before symptoms become severe.
Ignoring elevated uric acid can lead to:
Kidney stones and kidney failure: Urate crystals accumulate in kidneys, obstructing function.
Joint inflammation and chronic arthritis: Pain, swelling, and loss of mobility result from crystal deposits.
Cardiovascular disease: High uric acid is linked with increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Metabolic syndrome: Elevated uric acid is a marker of underlying metabolic dysfunctions.
This is why it’s critical to monitor uric acid levels, especially if you have risk factors like obesity, hypertension, or a family history of gout.
Take Action Today!
The good news is that you can prevent and manage elevated uric acid through lifestyle changes and natural remedies. Adjusting your diet to reduce purine-rich foods, maintaining healthy weight, controlling blood pressure, and using traditional herbal medicines can all make a significant difference.
If you experience symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, frequent urination issues, or unexplained fatigue, consult a healthcare professional and consider getting tested for uric acid levels. Early diagnosis and treatment can save your organs and improve your quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Our bodies are incredibly resilient but also vulnerable to toxins that build up internally over time. Elevated uric acid is one such toxin—an invisible poison that can erode your health from within. Don’t ignore it. Take control of your health, embrace natural remedies, and work closely with your doctor to keep your uric acid levels within a safe range.
Remember: Your body deserves the best care—inside and out.
