Health Benefits of Malic Acid

Malic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) found naturally in some fruits and vegetables, such as apples, strawberries, cherries, tomatoes, olives, peas, and corn. It's a versatile compound whose benefits extend to many industries and avenues of health.

For example, malic acid can add flavor to food, be an exfoliating ingredient in cosmetic products, and offer some medicinal benefits when combined with other supplements.

In addition to being found in whole foods, malic acid is available as a supplement. Recent research has explored the potential health benefits of malic acid supplements for energy production, oral health, skincare, and chronic diseases.

Supports Energy Production

Malic acid is a critical component of the Krebs cycle, making it an essential factor in energy production and fatigue reduction. Sometimes referred to as the citric acid cycle, the Krebs cycle is the process through which the body's cells generate energy. In this essential cycle, malic acid undergoes a series of enzymatic reactions that ultimately produce adenosine triphosphate, commonly known as ATP.

ATP is the cell's primary energy source, meaning malic acid helps power cellular processes essential to life. One study found that when combined with arginine supplements, malic acid can help reduce fatigue and encourage recovery after COVID-19. However, more research is needed to fully understand its synergistic effects.

Could Support Skin Health

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are usually applied as superficial and medium-depth skin peels to help treat acne, scars, roughness, hyperpigmentation, and age spots.

Malic acid, an AHA, is a natural exfoliant found in many cosmetic products that people use to smooth fine lines and improve skin texture. It's often used to remove dead cells from the skin's surface and adjust its overall pH. Plus, it boasts mild astringent (skin-tightening) properties that help shrink pores and improve overall skin firmness.

Incorporating skin care products that contain malic acid may help enhance your skin's texture, brightness, and complexion by improving hydration and signs of aging. Malic acid is also typically less irritating than other AHAs. However, it's best to consult a dermatologist before adding malic acid to your skincare routine to avoid potential skin irritation.

May Help Treat Dry Mouth

Xerostomia, more commonly known as dry mouth, affects many people worldwide and is increasing in prevalence. It is typically associated with age and decreased salivary gland function, but the condition is chronically underdiagnosed, leaving many people searching for over-the-counter relief options.

Research has found that malic acid may effectively treat dry mouth symptoms. A recent study involving 244 participants provided the treatment group with a topical oral spray containing 1% malic acid and found that it significantly improved their dry mouth symptoms.

More controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings and better understand malic acid's potential in treating dry mouth.

May Alleviate Pain in Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a widespread chronic pain condition that is often characterized by mood disturbances, sleep difficulties, memory impairments, irritable bowel syndrome, and fatigue. Malic acid may offer relief for people with fibromyalgia.

An outdated 1995 study sparked interest in malic acid's role in treating fibromyalgia symptoms. The study showed that taking malic acid with magnesium over a long period helped alleviate pain in participants with the condition.

However, more recent research is inconclusive. For example, one study found that malic acid supplements didn't offer relief for those with fibromyalgia symptoms.

Malic acid supplements should not take the place of prescribed medical interventions. Discuss new supplements with your healthcare provider before adding them to your routine.

May Help Prevent Kidney Stones

Kidney stones affect approximately 9% of the United States population, with a higher prevalence in men than women. Symptoms of kidney stones can include flank pain, groin pain, urinary frequency, and fever—encouraging many people to search for preventative measures.

Researchers have explored malic acid's potential roles in preventing and treating kidney stones. One study found that malic acid can help increase urine pH levels, making it more difficult for kidney stones to form. The study's researchers concluded that malic acid supplementation can be effective in treating calcium renal stones.

How To Take Malic Acid 

With limited research behind malic acid supplementation, there aren't standardized methods for taking the acidic compound. Malic acid is widely available in many fresh fruits and vegetables, meaning you can get it through a well-balanced diet.

Malic acid is also available in various supplements. Follow the recommendation on the supplement's packaging unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.

Dosage 

Due to limited research, a standardized dose of malic acid has not yet been established. While researchers have explored malic acid's effects on various health issues, the dosages have varied significantly in the experimental groups.

Multiple factors, such as medical history, age, and sex, may influence how much malic acid you need to get safe and effective results. Your healthcare provider can help you navigate these factors to establish a recommended dose based on your individualized needs.

Is Malic Acid Safe?

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), malic acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used as a direct food additive for flavor enhancement and pH control. Another expert panel established that malic acid is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products.

However, some clinical tests indicate malic acid may irritate the skin, especially the epidermis (the most outer layer of skin). Discuss any potential risks with your dermatologist before using malic acid.

Also, while malic acid is commonly consumed in foods, research regarding malic acid supplementation while pregnant or breastfeeding is extremely limited. Your healthcare provider can offer guidance on the safety of taking malic acid supplements during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Potential Drug Interactions

Research regarding malic acid's potential drug interactions is limited or undocumented. There is limited evidence that malic acid supplements will negatively interact with medications. However, drug interactions are always possible.

If you plan to take a malic acid supplement or use a topical treatment containing malic acid, it's important to read its nutrition facts and ingredient list first.

Regardless of the supplementation method, reviewing your supplement routine with your medical provider is vital to avoid potential interactions with other lifestyle choices. Your healthcare provider can help you align your supplement stack with your dietary intake, medication regimen, and physical activity for the best health results.

What To Look For

Malic acid supplements are available in multiple forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, lozenges, topical creams, and sprays. Your choice of supplement will likely depend on its intended purpose. For example, sprays and lozenges are usually considered the go-to malic acid supplements for dry mouth.

Many health food stores, pharmacies, and online retailers stock malic acid supplements. However, not all supplements are created equal, and not all health brands are reputable.

The FDA does not regulate supplements, so it's best to look for products that have undergone third-party lab testing to ensure their purity and safety. Look for transparent labeling that includes a clear and concise ingredient list and dosage information.

Can You Take Too Much Malic Acid?

There isn't a standardized dose or recommended daily intake of malic acid, but researchers have established that it's generally considered safe for the average healthy adult. An older study affirmed that malic acid was considered non-toxic, but there is no continued research regarding the risks of toxicity.

While no current evidence suggests malic acid would be toxic in specific amounts, everyone reacts differently to supplements. Review your healthcare needs with your healthcare provider before incorporating a new malic acid supplement into your routine.

Side Effects of Malic Acid

Malic acid is generally considered safe when taken in appropriate doses, as your healthcare provider recommends. However, it's essential to be aware of potential side effects before adding a malic acid supplement to your routine. Adverse reactions to malic acid supplementation, especially when consumed in large amounts, may include:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: There are anecdotal reports of gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort when taking malic acid supplements.
• Allergic reactions: Although allergic reactions to malic acid aren't well-documented, they are possible.
• Skin irritation: Alpha-hydroxy acids, like malic acid, may cause adverse reactions in some people. AHAs have been linked to unintentional swelling, burning, and itching.

Consider starting with a low dose of malic acid and monitoring your body's response. If adverse side effects persist, talk with your healthcare provider about adjusting your dose or discontinuing the supplement.

A Quick Review

Malic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) readily available in various fruits and vegetables, such as apples, strawberries, tomatoes, olives, and corn. The supplement form of malic acid has gained interest for its potential health benefits, such as energy production, oral health, and skincare. It is often used as a flavoring agent in foods and an exfoliating ingredient in cosmetic products.

Malic acid supplements are available as capsules, tablets, sprays, powders, and topical creams. However, evidence-based research regarding malic acid supplementation is still extremely limited. People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing chronic health conditions should proceed cautiously when taking a malic acid supplement. As always, it's best to discuss new supplements with a trusted healthcare provider before adding them to your routine.