Uric acid is a waste product formed from the natural breakdown of purines, which are found in certain foods and drinks, as well as in the body's cells. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood and passes through the kidneys into the urine. However, if the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys do not eliminate enough of it, the level of uric acid in the blood can become elevated, leading to conditions like gout and kidney stones.
