The Effects of Malic Acid
The effects of malic acid on the body depend on the conditions being treated and whether it is used in topical or oral treatments. The body can produce malic acid, making deficiencies unlikely, but it is still recommended to treat certain conditions. Malic acid has no known drug interactions; however, it does have some side effects.
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Definition
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Malic acid belongs to group of natural fruit acids known as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). A naturally occurring compound in the body, malic acid plays a role in the process that derives adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from the body. Biologists consider ATP to be the energy currency of life; it stores the energy we need to help us do just about all the things we do.
Medical Uses
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According to Dr. Larry Altshuler in his book, "Balanced Healing," malic acid is used topically and orally. Topically, malic acid is used for light-damaged or dry skin, and acne. Orally, and when combined with magnesium, malic acid is used to treat fibromyalgia. Malic acid is also used in oral chelation to treat atherosclerosis.
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Other Uses
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As an alpha hydroxy acid, malic acid may be used with other fruit acids (lactic acid, glycolic acid and tartaric acid) for cosmetic products. Fruit acids are natural exfoliants; they have skin-enhancing effects, such as loosening up and dissolving dead skin cells.
Side Effects
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According to Dr. Altshuler, malic acid has a side effect for topical use and a side effect for oral use. When used topically, malic acid can cause sun sensitivity. When used orally, malic acid can cause mild gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances.
Who Should Use Malic Acid
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A healthy person does not need to take a malic acid supplement. Since the body produces malic acid, a deficiency in humans is not likely to occur. However, for certain health conditions, such as fibromyalgia and atherosclerosis, supplements may be used. For acne and damaged skin, a topical treatment is recommended.
Supplement Dosages
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According to Dr. Altshuler, supplement dosages vary according to the condition being treated. For the treatment of fibromyalgia, 800 to 1,200 mg are to be taken daily with oral magnesium. For oral chelation, in the treatment of atherosclerosis, the daily dosage is 1,200 mg.
Warnings
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Dietary supplements are not regulated by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Vendors can make claims about the effectiveness of their products based on their own interpretation of studies. Supplements can interact with prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs and other supplements. Before adding a new supplement to your diet, it is advisable to consult with your health care provider.
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