How Does Diabetes Affect Uric Acid Levels?
Have you ever heard about the connection between type 2 diabetes and uric acid? If not, it’s important to understand how these two are linked and what you can do to keep both in check.
Uric acid is a waste product that forms when the body breaks down purines, which are found in foods like meat, poultry, and fish. Normally, the kidneys filter out excess uric acid, but when levels get too high, it can lead to problems like gout, kidney stones, and joint pain.
Diabetes and Uric acid
Why Do People with Diabetes Have High Uric Acid Levels?
Diabetes can contribute to high uric acid levels in several ways.
- High blood sugar causes the body to produce more insulin, which can increase uric acid production.
- The kidneys may not filter uric acid efficiently, leading to a buildup in the bloodstream.
- Being overweight or having metabolic issues can also raise uric acid levels.
Signs Your Uric Acid Levels May Be High
If you have diabetes and experience any of the following symptoms, your uric acid levels may be too high.
- Pain or inflammation in the joints, especially in the big toe, which is a common sign of gout.
- Swelling in the hands or feet due to uric acid buildup.
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities.
- Kidney stones, which cause severe pain in the lower back or abdomen.
- Sudden, severe joint pain, often in the feet, due to gout attacks.
How to Manage Diabetes and Uric Acid Levels
The good news is that you can take steps to manage both diabetes and uric acid levels naturally.
- Drink plenty of water to help flush out excess uric acid.
- Eat a balanced diet by reducing red meat, seafood, sugary foods, and alcohol. Instead, choose fiber-rich vegetables, whole grains, and plant-based proteins.
- Maintain a healthy weight, as losing excess weight helps control both blood sugar and uric acid levels.
- Keep blood sugar levels stable to prevent insulin spikes that contribute to high uric acid.
- Exercise regularly to improve insulin sensitivity and support kidney function.
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