Uric acid is a chemical that is created when the body breaks down substances called purines. Purines are normally produced in the body and are also found in some foods and beverages. Foods with a high purine content include liver, anchovies, mackerel, beans (beans) and dried peas and beer.
Most of the uric acid dissolves in the blood and travels to the kidneys. From there it comes out through the urine. If your body produces too much uric acid or does not eliminate it in sufficient quantities, you can get sick. High levels of uric acid in the blood are called hyperuricemia.