Uric acid is a by-product of purine metabolism. The human body synthesizes uric acid from the breakdown of purine bases that are present in the DNA, RNA, and the energy molecules. Uric acid is beneficial for the body. It acts as an antioxidant and helps in protecting the lining of the blood vessels. Under normal circumstances, excessive uric acid is eliminated from the body by the kidneys. However, if the kidneys fail to metabolize the purines, it would result in the accumulation of uric acid in the body. High levels of uric acid, also known as hyperuricemia, is a condition that can lead to the uric acid crystals getting deposited in one's joints, kidneys, sinews and other organs. This causes joint inflammation along with pain, swelling, and tenderness. To avoid these problems related to hyperuricemia, people are advised to exclude certain foods high in uric acid from their diet. For those suffering from uric acid-related problems like gout and kidney stones, here are the foods to avoid completely, and those that can be had in moderation. Foods to Avoid Completely This list of foods high in uric acid contains approximately 1,000 milligrams of purine for every 3 ounces. Foods to Be Eaten in Moderation Certain purine-containing foods can be eaten in moderation. These contain around 5 to 100 milligrams of every 3-ounce serving. In order to avoid foods high in uric acid, the diet should be fashioned to eliminate all the high-purine foods, and instead include foods with moderate to low amounts of purine in them. The diet should include a liberal carbohydrate intake, such as pasta and rice, and foods low in protein and fats. Eating plenty of raw fruits, and vegetables such as tomatoes and cabbage that have a high water content have also known to be beneficial for reducing uric acid levels. Dehydration reduces kidney functioning, allowing uric acid to build up, and hence, drinking lots of fluids, especially water, will help keep the organs hydrated and dilute the amount of uric acid in the body. Juices made of black cherry, celery, birch leaf, and parsley, are very effective gout remedies that help in flushing out uric acid from the tissues. One can effectively regulate the levels of uric acid in the body by making the necessary dietary changes. Those who have been diagnosed with hyperuricemia need to improve their dietary habits, and should also follow the treatment guidelines they have been given. The dietary changes should be made in conjunction with other changes in lifestyle, so as to relieve the body from the problems occurring due to a high concentration of uric acid. Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is solely for informative purposes, and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.