Citric Acid
Citric Acid
Snapshot
Citric acid is a naturally occurring organic acid that supports energy production, antioxidant recycling, and enhances mineral absorption.
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What is Citric Acid?
Citric acid is an organic acid found abundantly in citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges. It is a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle (citric acid cycle), which is central to cellular energy (ATP) production in all aerobic organisms.
Where It Comes From
Citric acid is commercially produced by fermenting sugars with the fungus Aspergillus niger or extracted directly from citrus juices. It is widely used as a food additive, preservative, and pH regulator.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Citric acid itself is not a nutrient but facilitates biochemical processes. It helps chelate minerals (like calcium and magnesium), making them more bioavailable, and regenerates antioxidants such as glutathione by supporting cysteine recycling.
Health Benefits
By participating in the citric acid cycle, citric acid aids in efficient energy metabolism. Its chelating properties enhance mineral absorption and prevent crystallization, reducing the risk of kidney stones. It may also help reduce muscle fatigue by buffering lactic acid buildup during exercise.
Recommended Dosage
For general supplementation or baking use, doses are typically 500 mg to 2 grams per day. Therapeutic doses for kidney stone prevention often range from 2 to 4 grams of citric acidโcontaining salts (like potassium citrate) daily, as advised by a healthcare provider.
How to Use It
Citric acid can be taken in powder form mixed into water or beverages, added to foods as a flavor enhancer, or used via mineral citrate supplements to support alkalinization and stone prevention.
Who Should Use It?
Recommended for athletes seeking to buffer exercise-induced acidosis, individuals prone to calcium-based kidney stones, and anyone looking to improve mineral absorption or enhance food flavor naturally.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal irritation or acid erosion of tooth enamel. People with acid reflux or sensitive teeth should use cautiously. Those on potassium-restricted diets should consult a healthcare provider before using potassium citrate salts.
Final Thoughts
Citric acid is a versatile compound essential for energy metabolism, mineral chelation, and kidney stone prevention. Its wide-ranging usesโfrom nutritional support to culinary applicationsโmake it a valuable addition to both health regimens and food formulations.
Scientific Studies
Fisher, E. S., et al. (2012). Citrate pharmacokinetics and effects on urinary chemistry in healthy volunteers: implications for nephrolithiasis management. Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 23(1), 122โ129. https://doi.org/10.1681/ASN.2011020158
Fizazi, K., et al. (2009). Effect of potassium citrate in prevention of stone formation: a randomized study. Kidney International, 75(2), 237โ246. https://doi.org/10.1038/ki.2008.445
Young, A. A., et al. (2015). Effects of sodium citrate ingestion on blood acid-base and electrolytes in student athletes. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 25(1), 39โ49. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.2013-0016