Uric acid might not be something you think about every day, but it can be important in health. It’s a waste product your body makes when it breaks down substances called purines, foods which are found in naturally in your body like liver, anchovies, mackerel, dried beans, peas and beer. Purines are important for building DNA and RNA, and their breakdown results in uric acid, which is usually filtered out by the kidneys and excreted in urine. If your body makes too much uric acid or your kidneys don’t remove enough, levels can become too high. On the other hand, unusually low levels can signal other health issues. An imbalance in uric acid can contribute to various health problems.
High uric acid levels (hyperuricemia)
When uric acid builds up in your body, it can form sharp crystals in your joints. This can cause gout, a painful type of arthritis that can affect any joint. While the big toe is a common site, gout doesn’t always start there and may first appear in joints like the ankle, knee or wrist. Over time, repeated gout attacks can damage your joints and affect nearby tissues like tendons and ligaments.
Did you know? About 1 in 5 people in the U.S. have high uric acid levels, but only around 5% develop gout. Many people with elevated levels may not notice any symptoms at all.
Common causes of high uric acid include:
- Diets high in purines (red meat, organ meats, seafood)
- Alcohol consumption (especially beer)
- Sugary drinks with high fructose corn syrup
- Certain medications (like diuretics and immunosuppressants)
- Obesity and metabolic syndrome
High uric acid is linked to health concerns such as heart disease, diabetes and fatty liver disease. To lower levels, experts suggest staying hydrated, reducing purine-rich foods (like red meat and certain seafood), limiting sugary drinks and avoiding excess alcohol. Consuming more fruits, vegetables and whole grains may also help. In some cases, medication may be necessary to quickly reduce uric acid and prevent complications.
Low uric acid levels
Low uric acid levels are rare, but they can also be a concern. Some studies suggest that low levels may be linked to neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS. Scientists believe uric acid might help protect the brain, but more research is needed.
Low uric acid has also been associated with:
- Kidney damage after intense exercise (called exercise-induced kidney injury)
- Uric acid kidney stones
While less common, low levels can still affect your health, so it’s important to stay in a safe range.
Why uric acid testing matters
Knowing your uric acid level provides valuable health insights. High uric acid can result in gout, marked by sudden joint pain, redness and swelling, and also raises the risk of kidney stones and potential kidney issues. Low uric acid, though less common, may signal problems with the liver, kidneys or nutrient processing.
Monitoring your uric acid helps you detect risks early and take steps like adjusting your diet or seeking medical advice to maintain overall well-being.
Labcorp OnDemand’s Uric Acid Test is a simple blood test that measures your uric acid level. Elevated levels may be linked to gout or kidney issues.
This test does not diagnose specific health conditions. Always consult your healthcare provider to interpret your results and decide on next steps.
Take control of your health, start with a simple test.
If you’re curious about your gout or kidney health risks, talk to your healthcare provider about getting tested. Understanding your uric acid level is one small step that could make a big difference.
