What is the Normal Range of Uric Acid Levels?

Many elderly individuals are particularly concerned about their uric acid levels during physical examinations, as high uric acid can lead to gout or cardiovascular diseases. However, while they are aware of the importance of uric acid, they often lack knowledge about its normal range. Today, we will provide a brief overview of the main symptoms of high uric acid and its normal values.

Uric acid is constantly produced and excreted in the body, maintaining a certain concentration in the blood. When blood uric acid levels are excessively high, uric acid is deposited in the form of sodium salts in joints, soft tissues, cartilage, and the kidneys, causing inflammatory reactions in these tissues. This can be the root cause of gout.

To check uric acid (Uric Acid) levels in the blood, it is necessary to fast for at least 8 hours before drawing blood (avoid eating after 12 pm but drinking water is allowed). The normal range of blood uric acid is 149-416 μmol/L for adult males and 89-357 μmol/L for females. For males over 60 years of age, the range is 250-476 μmol/L, and for females, it is 190-434 μmol/L. Female normal values are approximately 60-70 μmol/L lower than male values, and they gradually increase and approach male values after menopause. Generally, blood uric acid levels exceeding 420 μmol/L are considered hyperuricemia, which can lead to gout and other syndromes. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain uric acid levels within the normal range.

Here are some methods to control elevated uric acid levels:

1. Drink plenty of plain water or diluted tea, maintaining a daily intake of 1500-3000 milliliters. Consume small amounts frequently to help excrete uric acid. It is recommended to aim for a daily urine output of around 2000 ml. Westerners often consume apple cider vinegar to lower uric acid levels.

2. Consume more vegetarian foods, particularly purple eggplant, Shanghaiqing, and lettuce. Avoid spinach and minimize or avoid all beans. Eat a variety of fruits, which are composed of carbohydrates and have a positive effect on maintaining a slightly alkaline body, especially cherries.

3. Strictly avoid alcohol, as it can lead to the accumulation of lactic acid in the body, inhibiting the excretion of uric acid and predisposing to gout. Beer and seafood should be avoided completely. Beer contains alcohol, which can affect uric acid excretion, and alcohol oxidation produces substances that can increase uric acid levels. Seafood contains purine and protein, and excessive protein intake can create a slightly acidic environment in the body, promoting the formation of uric acid crystals. Additionally, short-term consumption of large amounts of seafood can cause a rapid increase in uric acid levels.

Although dietary factors account for only 10%-25% of uric acid levels, excessive consumption of seafood in a short period can lead to a significant increase in uric acid, especially when combined with alcohol consumption, which can affect excretion.