Recent research suggests uric acid, traditionally linked to gout, plays a significant role in heart health and metabolic syndrome. While often viewed as solely a byproduct of purine metabolism, high uric acid (hyperuricemia) can trigger inflammation, damaging blood vessels and increasing heart attack risk, even with normal cholesterol.

Uric acid may contribute to microvascular disease, silently blocking small vessels and starving the heart. It’s also believed to drive insulin resistance, a key factor in metabolic syndrome – a cluster of conditions including high blood sugar, belly fat, and abnormal cholesterol. Symptoms can include intense pain in the big toe (gout), but often present with no warning signs.

Factors contributing to high uric acid include dehydration, crash dieting, sleep disorders, and hidden fructose in processed foods. Lifestyle adjustments can help manage levels: hydration, gentle exercise, magnesium-rich foods, and mindful salt intake. Some experts suggest optimal uric acid levels are closer to 5.5 mg/dL, even within the “normal” range of up to 7.0 mg/dL. Prioritizing these adjustments, alongside medical guidance, may support both heart and metabolic health.