Does Vinegar and Honey Reduce Uric Acid in the Body?

Normally, your kidneys are able to get rid of uric acid in your blood. But some people either produce too much uric acid or can't get rid of it fast enough, leading to higher blood levels and illness such as kidney disease or a painful form of arthritis called gout. While there's chatter on the Internet that a mixture of apple cider vinegar and honey may help lower uric acid levels, there's no evidence that this works. Talk to your doctor to discuss alternative therapies for high levels of uric acid.

A bottle of apple cider vinegar on an outdoor table. (Image: belchonock/iStock/Getty Images)

Natural Ways to Reduce Uric Acid

Consuming vinegar and honey does not increase uric acid levels, so adding it to your diet won't make your condition worse. However, there are other natural ways to reduce levels of uric acid that don't require you to drink a vinegar mixture.

You can start by limiting foods high in purines, such as organ meats and various fish, including anchovies, herring and crab. It also helps if you limit your intake of processed foods and soda that contain high fructose corn syrup, which may increase uric acid levels.

Instead, fill your diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially those rich in vitamin C, which may help reduce uric acid, and healthy starches, such as whole grains.