Yoga for Uric Acid Control: 6 Postures to Control It

As the name suggests, our urine consists of uric acid. Most of this waste product (uric acid) is expelled through urination or bowel movements. Uric acid is nothing more than a waste byproduct produced when the body breaks down purines, a type of protein found in foods like meat, mushrooms and certain protein supplements. When our kidneys fail to effectively eliminate uric acid, it builds up in the blood, leading to the formation of solid crystals in the joints – a painful condition known as gout. Once you develop gout, it can lead to sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints, most commonly the big toe. Although gout cannot be cured, its symptoms can be controlled. One way to provide relief could be to do yoga for uric acid!

Yoga for uric acid

Yoga offers several benefits for controlling uric acid levels. It improves blood circulation, improves kidney function and helps in the elimination of uric acid through the urine. Additionally, yoga promotes overall physical and mental well-being, helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces stress, both of which are important in managing uric acid levels, says yoga expert Dr. Hansaji Yogendra. So, let us reveal the best yoga poses to reduce high uric acid levels naturally:

Yoga for uric acid

These 6 yoga poses can lower high uric acid levels, reducing the risk of gout:

1. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)

Cobra pose stretches the spine, chest and shoulders, stimulates the abdominal organs and improves digestion. It also helps relieve stress and fatigue, which can contribute to gout symptoms.

How to perform it:

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• Lie on your stomach, straighten your legs and place your palms under your shoulders.
• Inhale and lift your chest off the mat, keeping your elbows slightly bent and your shoulders away from your ears.
• Hold the pose for a few breaths and then exhale as you gently relax back onto the mat.

2. Ardha matsyendrasana (half turn of the spine)

This pose stimulates the digestive organs, kidneys and liver, aids in detoxification and lowers uric acid levels.

How to perform it:

• Sit with your legs straight and relax the whole body.
  Now bend your left leg and place your left foot near the right buttock.
• Cross your right foot over your left thigh and place it on the floor next to your left thigh.
• Rotate your torso to the right and place your left elbow on the outside of your right knee.
• Hold the pose as you inhale to lengthen your spine and exhale to deepen the twist. Repeat on the other side.

Also read: What is uric acid and how does it affect your body?

3. Setu bandhasana (bridge pose)

The bridge pose strengthens the back, legs and core muscles, stimulates the thyroid and improves digestion. It also helps reduce stress and anxiety.

How to perform it:

• Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-width apart, heels close to your hips.
• Inhale and lift your hips toward the ceiling, pressing your feet and arms into the mat.
• Fold your hands under your back and roll your shoulders underneath, opening your chest. Hold the pose for a few breaths before releasing.

4. Adho mukha svanasana (Downward Facing Dog Pose)

Downward Facing Dog stretches the entire body, especially the legs, arms and back. It helps improve blood circulation, especially in the joints, and helps relieve tension.

How to perform it:

• Start on your hands and knees, with your hands slightly in front of your shoulders.
• Lift your hips up and back and straighten your legs, creating an inverted V shape.
• Press your hands firmly into the mat and hold your head between your arms, looking down at your feet or knees.

5. Viparita karani (legs against the wall pose)

This pose promotes relaxation and improves blood circulation in the legs and hips. It helps reduce inflammation and relieve tension.

How to perform it:

• Lie on the floor, bend your knees and bring them toward your stomach, letting your thighs touch your chest.
  
• Lift your hips off the floor as you exhale, holding your waist with both hands.
  Extend your legs up the wall and let your elbows support your weight on the floor.
• Use the wall for stability or place pillows under your waist for support.
• Sit for about 10 minutes, eyes closed, and focus on breathing deeply.

Also read: High uric acid level? Use these 5 dry fruits to keep it under control

6. Balasana (Child’s Pose)

Child’s pose gently stretches the lower back, hips, thighs and ankles while promoting relaxation and stress relief.

How to perform it:

• Kneel on the mat with your big toes together and your knees hip-width apart.
• Sit on your heels and then bend forward, extending your arms in front of you or at your sides.
• Rest your forehead on the mat and breathe deeply into your back. Hold the pose for as long as you feel comfortable.

Tips to reduce uric acid

Lowering uric acid levels is crucial for preventing gout and other related health problems. Here are 7 tips to effectively manage and lower uric acid levels:

1. Add fruits and vegetables

Add cherries, apples, bananas and citrus fruits to your diet. These fruits are known for their ability to lower uric acid levels. Vegetables are also essential, but you should avoid certain types such as spinach and brinjal.

2. Avoid certain foods

To control uric acid levels, avoid foods like spinach, brinjal, custard apples and chikoos. It is also advisable to avoid seafood, red meat and foods high in fructose, including sweets, ice cream and fast food, as these can increase uric acid levels.

Also read: 5 reasons why controlling uric acid levels is a must for good health

3. Consume nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds are beneficial for controlling uric acid. Cashews, walnuts, almonds, flaxseeds and Brazil nuts can be useful additions to your diet. They provide essential nutrients without raising uric acid levels.

4. Choose certain drinks

Drinking green tea and coffee has been shown to reduce the risk of gout. A study published by Frontiers in endocrinology reveals that green tea contains polyphenols, which help reduce high uric acid production. When it comes to coffee, it is also beneficial to keep uric acid under control, but be mindful of the sugar you add.

5. Stay hydrated

Drinking enough water is crucial for lowering uric acid levels. Proper hydration helps the kidneys flush out excess uric acid more effectively, reducing the risk of crystal formation and gout attacks.

Also read: Do you suffer from high uric acid levels? Giloy can help!

6. Avoid alcohol

Alcohol, especially beer, is known to increase uric acid levels. However, avoiding alcohol can help control uric acid levels and prevent gout attacks. It is best to limit or eliminate alcohol consumption altogether.

7. Limit high-fat foods

Foods high in fat content, such as ghee and butter, should be limited. These foods can disrupt the body’s ability to process and eliminate uric acid, contributing to higher levels.

By following these tips and yoga poses, you can effectively control and lower your uric acid levels, thereby reducing the risk of gout!