The Purine Excretion Mechanism: Optimising Kidney Function Naturally
For the past decade, education regarding uric acid in Indonesia has often focused solely on lists of prohibited foods. However, the key to joint and kidney health lies in the efficiency of the purine excretion mechanism itself.
Approximately 90% of individuals with hyperuricemia (high uric acid) actually have less-than-optimal kidney function in excreting metabolic waste, rather than simply overconsuming purine-rich foods.
Purines are organic compounds found in every living cell. In the human body, purines are broken down into uric acid in the liver. The kidneys play a crucial role as the “exit gate,” with 70% of uric acid being excreted through urine, while the remainder is eliminated through the digestive tract.
The excretion process in the kidneys involves filtration in the glomerulus, followed by reabsorption and secretion in the proximal tubule. Problems often occur at the secretion stage, where the kidneys fail to release uric acid into the urine due to unfavourable chemical environmental conditions.
Uric acid is a compound that is difficult to dissolve in water, especially in acidic environments. Therefore, optimising urine pH to remain within the range of 6.2 - 6.8 is the most effective strategy to help the kidneys excrete purines naturally.
Hydration is not just about quenching thirst. Water acts as the primary solvent, maintaining the flow rate of fluids within the kidney nephrons. Without sufficient water, urine becomes concentrated (high specific gravity), which physically forces uric acid molecules to bind together and form sharp crystals (monosodium urate).
It is recommended to consume at least 2-3 litres of water per day evenly. Avoid consuming large amounts of water at once; instead, drink regularly to maintain stable kidney filtration pressure throughout the day.
To achieve a pH balance that supports purine excretion, the body needs nutrients that provide an alkaline ash effect after digestion. Some natural steps include:
Several substances competitively inhibit the kidneys from excreting uric acid. Lactic acid (from extreme muscle fatigue) and ketones (from overly strict diets or starvation) often “compete” with uric acid in the kidney tubules. As a result, the kidneys prioritise the excretion of lactic acid and retain uric acid in the blood.
Optimising purine excretion does not mean you have to stop enjoying nutritious foods. Focus on strengthening kidney function by maintaining consistent hydration and ensuring that urine pH remains in an ideal condition (pH balance). With efficiently functioning kidneys, uric acid levels will be maintained naturally in the long term.
Does coffee help with uric acid excretion?
Some studies suggest that consuming coffee (especially black coffee without sugar) can increase uric acid excretion through its mild diuretic effect and its influence on purine-metabolising enzymes.
How can you check your urine pH?
You can use pH indicator strips available at pharmacies to monitor whether your urine is too acidic or already within the ideal range for purine excretion.