Can My 90-Year-Old Mother Continue Drinking Ensure with High Uric Acid?

Q: Can My 90-Year-Old Mother Continue Drinking Ensure with High Uric Acid?

Hello： High uric acid levels are generally not related to the nutritional supplements consumed by the mother. <br>It is recommended to choose plain formulas and avoid those with added sugars. <br>Additionally, for those with high uric acid levels, it is advised to drink more than

Can people with high uric acid levels drink Ensure?

My mother is 90 years old and has a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia for several decades.
She has been taking antihypertensive medication (Mizolastine) and cholesterol-lowering medication (Lipitor) for a long time, and she often drinks Ensure Original for nutritional supplementation.
Over a month ago, during a senior health check-up, it was found that her uric acid levels were elevated, and she has since started taking medication to lower uric acid.
Can she continue to drink Ensure Original for nutritional supplementation?

Crystal, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/14

Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition

Hello: High uric acid levels are generally not related to the nutritional supplements consumed by the mother.
It is recommended to choose plain formulas and avoid those with added sugars.
Additionally, for those with high uric acid levels, it is advised to drink more than 2000cc of water daily to help with uric acid excretion.
Wishing you health and happiness! Sincerely, Dietitian Fan Chun-Mei, Nutrition Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2024/05/14

More Info

When considering whether your 90-year-old mother can continue drinking Ensure while managing high uric acid levels, it's essential to understand both the nutritional aspects of Ensure and the implications of high uric acid in her health condition.

Ensure is a nutritional supplement designed to provide essential vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients, which can be particularly beneficial for elderly individuals who may have difficulty consuming adequate nutrition through regular meals. Given your mother's age and her history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia, maintaining proper nutrition is crucial for her overall health and well-being.

Regarding uric acid levels, high uric acid (hyperuricemia) can lead to gout, a type of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints. It is often influenced by dietary factors, particularly the intake of purine-rich foods, which the body breaks down into uric acid. Foods high in purines include red meats, certain seafood, and some alcoholic beverages. However, Ensure is generally low in purines, making it a safer option for individuals with high uric acid levels.

The advice from the nutritionist you consulted indicates that your mother can continue consuming the original flavor of Ensure, as it does not significantly contribute to her uric acid levels. However, it is advisable to avoid flavored versions that may contain added sugars, as excessive sugar intake can also contribute to increased uric acid levels. Additionally, ensuring adequate hydration is vital for helping the body excrete uric acid. The recommendation to drink at least 2000 cc of water daily is sound advice, as proper hydration can assist in reducing uric acid concentrations in the blood.

Moreover, it is essential to monitor her overall diet. While Ensure can help meet her nutritional needs, it should not be the sole source of nutrition. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can further support her health. Foods like cherries, which have been shown to lower uric acid levels, could be beneficial.
In summary, your mother can continue to drink Ensure as part of her nutritional regimen while managing her high uric acid levels. It is crucial to ensure that she stays well-hydrated and maintains a balanced diet. Regular follow-ups with her healthcare provider to monitor her uric acid levels and overall health are also recommended. If any new symptoms arise or if her condition changes, it is essential to consult her physician for further evaluation and guidance.

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