India, Dec. 17 -- High uric acid is no longer a rare problem, it is showing up in people much earlier than expected. If you have ever woken up with sudden joint pain, swelling in the toes or knees, or an unexplained stiffness that just won't go away, uric acid could be the hidden reason. Uric acid forms when the body breaks down purines, natural substances found in many everyday foods. When ignored, it can lead to painful gout attacks, kidney stones, and long-term joint damage. When the body produces more uric acid than it can eliminate, it builds up and forms crystals that settle in joints. Small but smart dietary changes can make a big difference.

Uric acid forms when the body breaks down purines, natural compounds found in many foods....