Can Lemon Juice and Milk Help Lower Uric Acid Levels?

Improvement of uric acid levels?

Hello Dr.
Tsai! I would like to ask you a few questions regarding uric acid: 1.
Can long-term consumption of lemon juice help improve uric acid levels? 2.
Can regularly drinking milk help improve uric acid levels? Thank you for your explanation on these two questions!

SKY, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/12/07

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition

Hello!
1.
The causes of high uric acid levels are due to either abnormal excretion by the body or excessive production within the body.
Elevated uric acid can lead to urinary stones or kidney damage.

2.
Lemon juice contains citric acid, which can improve blood pH levels and reduce the formation of uric acid crystals caused by low pH.
Additionally, individuals with high uric acid levels need to consume more than 3000 cc of water to aid in uric acid excretion; therefore, it is recommended that those with elevated uric acid drink diluted lemon water.
3.
Milk is a high-protein food, and excessive protein intake can lead to the breakdown of purines in the body, resulting in increased uric acid levels.
Thus, high-protein foods are not recommended.
Generally, it is important to control the intake of purine-rich foods, such as seafood, tilapia, milkfish, white croaker, and mackerel, especially fish skin and roe.
Additionally, meat and soy products should be limited to no more than 4-5 ounces per day.
It is advisable to avoid broth and chicken essence.
Plant-based foods such as kelp, nori, shiitake mushrooms, and asparagus also contain higher purine levels and should be controlled.
Furthermore, alcohol can be metabolized into lactic acid, which hinders uric acid metabolism.

In addition to avoiding purine-rich foods, it is important to steer clear of high-fat diets, as excessive oily foods can slow down uric acid metabolism.
Moreover, one should avoid fasting or starvation, which can lead to the breakdown of body proteins and increase uric acid levels.
Therefore, if appetite is affected due to gastroenteritis or other reasons, it is essential to maintain hydration and consume sugars (such as juice or tea) to prevent low blood sugar, which can lead to protein breakdown.

Reply Date: 2008/12/07

More Info

When it comes to managing uric acid levels, both lemon juice and milk have been discussed for their potential benefits, but they work in different ways and should be considered carefully.

Lemon Juice and Uric Acid:
Lemon juice is rich in citric acid, which can help to alkalize the body. This alkalization can potentially reduce the formation of uric acid crystals, which are responsible for gout and other related conditions. The citric acid in lemon juice may help to increase the urinary excretion of uric acid, thus lowering its levels in the blood. Drinking diluted lemon juice regularly can be beneficial for individuals with high uric acid levels. It is important to note that hydration plays a crucial role in uric acid management, and consuming plenty of water (at least 3 liters a day) is essential to help flush out uric acid from the body.

Milk and Uric Acid:
On the other hand, milk is a source of protein, and while high-protein diets can lead to increased uric acid production, dairy products, particularly low-fat milk, have been shown to have a protective effect against gout. Studies suggest that low-fat dairy products can help lower uric acid levels and reduce the risk of gout attacks. The proteins in milk may help to promote the excretion of uric acid through urine, which can be beneficial for those with elevated levels. However, it is important to consume milk in moderation and to choose low-fat options to avoid excessive calorie intake and potential weight gain, which can exacerbate uric acid issues.

Combining Lemon Juice and Milk:
While both lemon juice and milk can have positive effects on uric acid levels, combining them may not be advisable. The acidity of lemon juice could potentially curdle milk, leading to digestive discomfort. Therefore, it is better to consume them separately to maximize their benefits without causing any gastrointestinal issues.

Dietary Considerations:
In addition to lemon juice and milk, individuals looking to manage their uric acid levels should also consider their overall diet. Foods high in purines, such as red meats, organ meats, certain seafood, and sugary beverages, should be limited. Instead, focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Foods like cherries, which have been shown to lower uric acid levels, can also be beneficial.

Conclusion:
In summary, lemon juice can be a helpful addition to your diet for managing uric acid levels due to its alkalizing properties, while low-fat milk can provide a protective effect against gout. However, it is crucial to maintain a balanced diet and stay well-hydrated. If you have concerns about your uric acid levels or dietary choices, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.

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