Recently, I noticed something strange. In the mornings, my fingers felt swollen and clumsy, like little sausages, and they hurt. My wedding ring suddenly felt like it belonged to someone else. Then, after a glass of wine with friends, I felt a sharp pain in my big toe.
I blamed it on fatigue, age, and thought: “Who doesn’t have these aches after fifty…”
But my test results told a different story: my uric acid levels were high.
What Is Uric Acid and Why Is It Dangerous?
A few years ago, I wouldn’t have paid attention to uric acid. It sounded like something from a biology textbook. But my doctor explained it simply:
“Imagine water pipes. If they collect scale, they clog. Excess uric acid is like that scale—but in your joints and blood vessels.”
This acid forms when we eat too much meat, fatty foods, legumes, and drink alcohol frequently. Normally, the kidneys filter it out. But with age—especially in women after 45–50 during hormonal changes—this “filter” becomes less efficient.
Accumulation happens silently:
- Fingers or knees start to hurt slightly.
- Shoes feel tight even though the size hasn’t changed.
- Chronic heaviness and fatigue set in, even after rest.
These are warning signs. Uric acid crystals begin depositing in the joints, causing inflammation (gout), and they can also harm the kidneys.
7 Steps That Helped Me Lower My Uric Acid
- Water — My Main Ally
I switched from tea and coffee to drinking more water. Two liters a day became easy once I made it a habit. The swelling slowly disappeared. - Less Meat and Legumes
I reduced fatty meats and beans, replaced pork with chicken, and added more vegetables and soups. My body responded positively. - Cutting Down on Alcohol and Sugary Drinks
Wine only for special occasions. Beer and sodas almost vanished from my menu. Instead, I enjoy natural fruit juices, especially cranberry. - More Vitamin C
I began drinking cranberry tea and eating foods rich in vitamin C—red peppers, currants, rose hips. Swelling decreased, and my immunity improved. - Weight Control — Without Strict Diets
I didn’t aim for weight loss but reduced portions and walked more. Light, consistent habits worked wonders. - Gentle Morning Exercise
Simple stretches and walks in fresh air lifted my mood, improved my sleep, and gave me energy. - Herbal Decoctions
Cranberry leaves and bearberry tea became part of my routine. Affordable, simple, and effective—they helped ease swelling.
4 Simple Foods That Supported My Recovery
- Cranberries – A powerful ally for kidneys and inflammation.
- Sauerkraut – Natural fermentation boosts immunity and digestion.
- Beets – Support the liver, cleanse gently, and provide energy.
- Apples – A daily ritual that aids digestion and helps control hunger.
Important Note
Gout and high uric acid are serious medical conditions.
Lifestyle changes help, but they do not replace medical care.
Always consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.