Is your desi meal increasing your uric acid levels?

If you often experience sudden cramps, joint pain and inflammation of legs and muscles, then your body is indicating increasing uric acid levels that can take a toll on overall health and well-being.

What is uric acid?
Uric acid is a natural waste product formed during the breakdown of purines, which are compounds found in various foods and beverages. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood and is excreted through urine. However, elevated levels can lead to crystallization in joints, causing painful conditions like gout and contributing to joint inflammation. However, there are certain common foods that can silently trigger uric acid levels and joint pains.

Fatty Fish
While fish is generally a healthy choice, oily varieties are rich in purines and should be consumed in moderation by individuals prone to joint issues.

Masoor Dal
Masoor dal is a common protein source in Indian households, but it contains moderate levels of purines, compounds that break down into uric acid in the body. When consumed in excess, purines can accumulate and overwhelm the kidneys’ ability to flush them out. While not as purine-rich as meat, regular high intake of masoor dal may gradually elevate uric acid levels, especially in those already prone to gout or kidney problems.

Mutton and Organ Meats
Mutton, liver, and other organ meats are extremely high in purines. These purines rapidly convert to uric acid after digestion. Dishes like mutton curry, kaleji fry, or bheja masala may trigger a sharp spike in uric acid, especially when consumed frequently. The fat content also slows uric acid excretion, making matters worse. These should be avoided or limited by individuals with a history of gout or joint inflammation.

Rajma (Kidney Beans)
Rajma is a high-protein legume loved across North India, but it's also rich in purines. The problem arises when it's eaten frequently in large portions without adequate hydration. Poor kidney function can further slow down uric acid elimination, causing painful flare-ups in joints. Though rajma has many health benefits, people with uric acid concerns should enjoy it occasionally and in smaller quantities.

Palak (Spinach)
Spinach is packed with nutrients, but it also falls under the category of moderate- to high-purine vegetables. Consuming palak regularly, especially in concentrated forms like palak paneer or palak soup, can increase uric acid production in sensitive individuals. While it's safe for most people, those managing uric acid issues should rotate greens and not rely heavily on spinach.

Paneer
Paneer contains high amounts of protein and saturated fat. While it's not very high in purines, it can still indirectly raise uric acid levels. The saturated fat in paneer may impair kidney function over time, making it harder for the body to eliminate uric acid efficiently. Rich paneer dishes like shahi paneer or paneer butter masala can worsen the situation due to added cream and ghee.