Healthwatch by Shyft

Need for nutrition advice for Uric acid?
Leave your details & our team will help you set up a consult
Sonali Sachdeva

Nutritionist | 22 Yrs. of experience

Sakina Hashmi

Nutritionist | 7 Yrs. of experience

Abhilasha Sharma

Nutritionist | 5 Yrs. of experience

Enter your details

The Price of High Uric Acid: How It Affects Women’s Health

The Price of High Uric Acid: How It Affects Women’s Health
Content
Content

Uric acid is a natural waste product that our bodies produce when breaking down purines, substances found in certain foods and drinks. While having some uric acid is necessary for our bodies to function properly, too much of it can lead to a condition called hyperuricemia, which can cause a range of health problems. But does the impact of high uric acid levels differ between men and women? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the research on this topic and explore the gender-specific effects of hyperuricemia.

Recent research has shown that there is a gender gap in the effects of hyperuricemia on health. Women are at greater risk of developing hyperuricemia-related conditions than men, and they may experience different symptoms and outcomes.

Higher risk for women

Several studies have found that women are at greater risk of developing hyperuricemia than men. A study published in the Journal of Women’s Health found that women had a significantly higher prevalence of hyperuricemia than men and that the risk increased with age. Another study published in the Journal of Rheumatology found that women were more likely than men to develop gout, even after adjusting for known risk factors such as age, obesity, and alcohol consumption.

One reason for this gender gap may be hormonal differences. Estrogen, a hormone found in higher levels in women than in men, has been shown to increase the excretion of uric acid. During menopause, however, women’s estrogen levels decrease, which can lead to an increased risk of hyperuricemia-related conditions.

Different symptoms and outcomes

In addition to a higher risk of developing hyperuricemia-related conditions, women may also experience different symptoms and outcomes than men. A study published in the Journal of Rheumatology found that women with gout had more severe pain, more frequent attacks, and higher levels of disability than men with gout. Women were also less likely than men to receive appropriate treatment for gout, which may contribute to worse outcomes.

Another study published in the American Journal of Medicine found that women with hyperuricemia were at a higher risk of developing hypertension than men with hyperuricemia. This may be due to the fact that estrogen has a protective effect on blood vessels, and the decreased levels of estrogen during menopause may lead to a higher risk of hypertension.

Reproductive complications

Hyperuricemia may also have negative effects on reproductive health in women. A study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility found that women with higher levels of uric acid were more likely to have fertility problems such as ovulatory dysfunction, a condition in which the ovaries do not release eggs regularly. The study also found that women with higher uric acid levels had lower levels of a hormone called estradiol, which is important for maintaining reproductive health.

Another study published in the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation found that hyperuricemia was associated with insulin resistance and higher levels of androgens, male hormones that can disrupt the menstrual cycle and cause fertility problems in women.

Prevention and treatment

Given the higher risk of hyperuricemia-related conditions in women, women need to take steps to prevent and treat the condition. Lifestyle changes such as reducing intake of purine-rich foods (such as red meat, seafood, and alcohol), losing weight, and staying hydrated can help to lower uric acid levels. Medications such as allopurinol and febuxostat can also be used to lower uric acid levels and prevent gout attacks.

However, it is important to note that medications may have different effects on men and women. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that women were more likely than men to experience adverse effects from allopurinol, a common medication used to treat gout. Women were also less likely than men to achieve target uric acid levels with allopurinol treatment.

Conclusion

Hyperuricemia is a common condition that can lead to a range of health problems, including gout, kidney stones, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. While men and women can both develop hyperuricemia, women are at greater risk and may experience different symptoms and outcomes than men. Hormonal differences may play a role in this gender gap, with women’s higher estrogen levels providing some protection until menopause.


Author:
Shyft Health

Shyft

linkedin
Shyft is your trusted source for health and wellness insights. We collaborate with a network of writers and health experts to curate evidence-based content. This content is further vetted and reviewed by our team of internal experts. Our platform is dedicated to providing you with reliable, accessible health information so you can make informed choices for a healthier life. read more

Over 20,000 customers have reduced their symptoms and improved their health by consulting Shyft's Clinical Nutritionists. When are you starting?

READ MORE ON :

Article By:

Read more

Continue to read on a range of topics related to Exercise, Nutrition, Mental Health and Sleep Health.

Yoga for High Uric Acid: Managing Gout Symptoms Naturally

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, leading to the formation of urate crystals in the joints. While medication can be effective in managing gout symptoms, some people prefer to explore natural remedies. Yoga is one such remedy that is beneficial for managing gout symptoms. Even when we talk about high uric acid and other comorbidities, yoga can be very beneficial in helping you maintain a healthy lifestyle, for example, diabetes… Read more

Most read

Yoga for High Uric Acid: Managing Gout Symptoms Naturally

Yoga for High Uric Acid: Managing Gout Symptoms Naturally

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, leading to the formation of urate crystals in the joints. While medication can be effective in managing gout symptoms, some people prefer to explore natural remedies. Yoga is one such remedy that is beneficial for managing gout symptoms. Even when we talk about high uric acid and other comorbidities, yoga can be very beneficial in helping you maintain a healthy lifestyle, for example, diabetes…

book

3 minutes

|

calendar

22 Jul 2023

Most read

From Gout to Diabetes: High Uric Acid Levels and Comorbidities

The human body produces uric acid when it breaks down purines, which are found in many foods and occur naturally. In healthy individuals, the body eliminates uric acid through urine, but when the levels of uric acid become too high, it can lead to several health problems. High uric acid levels are associated with several comorbidities, which are additional health problems that occur along with a primary disease or disorder. Here is a look at some of the most common… Read more

From Gout to Diabetes: High Uric Acid Levels and Comorbidities

From Gout to Diabetes: High Uric Acid Levels and Comorbidities

The human body produces uric acid when it breaks down purines, which are found in many foods and occur naturally. In healthy individuals, the body eliminates uric acid through urine, but when the levels of uric acid become too high, it can lead to several health problems. High uric acid levels are associated with several comorbidities, which are additional health problems that occur along with a primary disease or disorder. Here is a look at some of the most common…

book

3 minutes

|

calendar

05 Apr 2023

High Uric Acid – Causes

3 minutes

10 Apr 2023

High Uric Acid – Causes

Did you know that the human body is a complex machine that produces a waste product called uric acid? Purines, which are present in some of the most decadent foods and beverages, such as organ meats, shellfish, and lager, are broken down by the body to produce this little troublemaker. Usually, uric acid is excreted by the kidneys without any issues, but if the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys can't get rid of it properly, it… Read more

High Uric Acid – Causes

High Uric Acid – Causes

Did you know that the human body is a complex machine that produces a waste product called uric acid? Purines, which are present in some of the most decadent foods and beverages, such as organ meats, shellfish, and lager, are broken down by the body to produce this little troublemaker. Usually, uric acid is excreted by the kidneys without any issues, but if the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys can't get rid of it properly, it…

book

3 minutes

|

calendar

10 Apr 2023

The Uric Acid Dilemma: Tips for a Low-Purine Diet

Uric acid is a waste product that forms in our bodies when we break down purines, which are found in certain foods. In some people, high uric acid levels can lead to painful gout attacks. However, dietary changes can help manage these levels. In this article, we'll explore tips for a low-purine diet and how to make healthy food choices to manage uric acid levels. Understanding Purines and Uric Acid Purines are naturally occurring substances in many foods, including organ… Read more

Featured

The Uric Acid Dilemma: Tips for a Low-Purine Diet

The Uric Acid Dilemma: Tips for a Low-Purine Diet

Uric acid is a waste product that forms in our bodies when we break down purines, which are found in certain foods. In some people, high uric acid levels can lead to painful gout attacks. However, dietary changes can help manage these levels. In this article, we'll explore tips for a low-purine diet and how to make healthy food choices to manage uric acid levels. Understanding Purines and Uric Acid Purines are naturally occurring substances in many foods, including organ…

book

3 minutes

|

calendar

05 Apr 2023

Featured

Recipes to manage High Uric Acid, approved by nutritionists

View all
Understanding Metabolism

Corn Mushroom

A delightful combination of sweet corn kernels and tender mushrooms sautéed to perfection with aromatic spices and herbs.

14 INGREDIENTS

|

30 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

Palak Mushroom

An earthy fusion of spinach and mushrooms, cooked in a fragrant blend of spices.

10 INGREDIENTS

|

45 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

Broad Beans Thoran

A simple South Indian delicacy made with seasonal veggies, coconut and minimal spices. A side dish that pairs best with steamed rice or dosa.

8 INGREDIENTS

|

15 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

Strawberry Salad

An easy to make and even easier to enjoy salad with the goodness of strawberries - makes for a perfect snack or a side dish.

7 INGREDIENTS

|

15 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

Beetroot Smoothie

A quick & easy to prepare nutrient dense smoothie packed with the goodness of carrots & beets.

6 INGREDIENTS

|

10 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

Sweet Potato Soup

A rich blend of creamy sweet potatoes & chestnuts - makes for a perfect comfort meal that can be consumed anytime of the day.

8 INGREDIENTS

|

45 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

Sweet Potato Chips

A crispy & delicious preperation with the goodness of sweetpotato - makes for a perfect healthy snack.

6 INGREDIENTS

|

45 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

Avocado Toast

Contender for the world's most loved breakfast

8 INGREDIENTS

|

15 MINS.

View all