Men's Health Day: Understanding High Uric Acid Levels
Today marks Men's Health Day, and in light of this occasion, the Southwest Hospital Health Check Center has released an important health report about males in our city. Between January and October of this year, a comprehensive health examination was conducted on 42,773 men, revealing that high uric acid levels are the most prevalent condition, affecting 13,829 individuals, which accounts for 32.33% of those examined. Experts suggest this issue is closely tied to the dietary habits in Chongqing.
What is High Uric Acid?
High uric acid levels, often associated with gout, are a common health issue. According to experts, dietary practices considerably influence the prevalence of this condition among men in Chongqing. A significant contributor is the local love for hot pot, particularly ingredients like beef tripe, duck intestines, and various animal organs. These choices are frequently complemented by beer, which exacerbates the problem.
Preventing High Uric Acid Levels
To mitigate the risk of developing high uric acid levels, experts recommend significantly reducing or completely avoiding the intake of animal organs, seafood, and shellfish. Data indicate that consuming hot pot can lead to a purine intake that is 10 to several dozen times higher than a normal meal. Beer is particularly problematic, as it is loaded with purines, and just one bottle can double uric acid levels in the bloodstream.
The Health Risks of High Uric Acid
Research has shown that patients in the highest 25% of uric acid levels face a greater risk of serious health issues, such as stroke, cardiovascular diseases, and heart conditions, compared to those in the lowest 25%. This extensive study spanned seven countries, involving 9,193 participants, and the findings revealed alarming correlations between high uric acid levels and instances of hypertension-related strokes—90% of which result from vascular blockage. Shockingly, many individuals with hypertension overlook the significance of monitoring their uric acid levels.
Understanding Purine Content in Foods
To help manage uric acid levels, it’s essential to understand the purine content in various foods:
- Low Purine Foods (0-25 mg of purine per 100g): Milk, cheese, eggs, most vegetables, fruits, rice, bread, oils, tea, and coffee.
- Moderate Purine Foods (25-100 mg of purine per 100g): Lean meats, pork, lamb, poultry, fish, shrimp, tofu, spinach, and mushrooms.
- High Purine Foods (150-1000 mg of purine per 100g): Goose, organ meats (liver, kidney, heart), eel, herring, fish eggs, shellfish like scallops and oysters.
Conclusion
As we observe Men's Health Day, prioritizing awareness about high uric acid levels is crucial. By making informed dietary choices and understanding the implications of our eating habits, men can take proactive steps towards better health and wellness.