Health benefits and physical uses of citric acid

Citric acid has many impressive health benefits and functions.

Metabolism for energy

Citric acid - a molecule closely related to citric acid - is the first molecule to be formed in a process called the citric acid cycle.

Also known as the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) or Krebs cycle, these chemical reactions in your body help convert food into usable energy.

Humans and other organisms get most of their energy from this cycle.

Enhancing nutrient absorption

Mineral supplementation comes in many forms.

But not all forms are created equal, as your body uses some forms more efficiently.

Citric acid enhances the bioavailability of minerals, allowing your body to absorb them better.

For example, calcium citrate does not require stomach acid to be absorbed. It also has fewer side effects, such as gas, bloating or constipation, than another form of calcium carbonate.

Therefore, calcium citrate is a better choice for people with less stomach acid, such as the elderly.

Similarly, magnesium in the form of citrate is more thoroughly absorbed and more bioavailable than magnesium oxide and magnesium sulphate.

May prevent kidney stones

Citric acid - in the form of potassium citrate - prevents the formation of new kidney stones and breaks up those that have already formed.

Kidney stones are solid masses made up of crystals that usually originate in your kidneys.

Citric acid protects against kidney stones by making your urine less conducive to stone formation.

Kidney stones are usually treated with citric acid as potassium citrate. However, consuming foods rich in this natural acid - such as citrus fruits - can provide similar benefits in preventing kidney stones.

Safety and risks

Artificial citric acid is generally regarded as safe by the Food and Drug Administration (GRAS).

There are no scientific studies investigating the safety of artificial citric acid when consumed in large quantities over a long period of time.

However, there have been reports of illness and allergic reactions to this additive.

One report found that four people experienced joint pain, swelling and stiffness, muscle and stomach pain and shortness of breath after consuming foods containing artificial citric acid.

These same symptoms were not observed in people who consumed natural forms of lemon and acid, for example, lemon and acid.

The researchers admitted that they could not prove that artificial citric acid was the cause of these symptoms, but recommended further research into its use in food and drink.

In both cases, the scientists suggest that the symptoms are likely to be related to the mould used to produce the citric acid, rather than the compound itself.