The sour taste so prevalent in “extreme” candy and gum is a product of malic acid, an organic compound known chemically as C4H6O5. Isolated in 1785 from apple juice, it was given the Latin name acide malique (acid apple). However, the tartness of malic acid, produced naturally by all organisms, is used for far more than a food additive. It has a starring role for a variety of applications in many medicines.

• In both plants and animals, malic acid steps up the metabolic rate by its use in the Krebs cycle, which converts carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into useable energy and water. Without adequate malic acid, the Krebs cycle activity ceases and the body feels the effects as fatigue. Many patients suffering from fibromyalgia, a disorder that causes muscle pain and fatigue, experience short-term relief with supplemental malic acid. Pain management may begin in two days or less following a regimen containing malic acid.

• The stimulation of the metabolic rate affects many individuals needing an energy boost. Athletes note improved sports performance when malic acid supplements are part of their regimen.

• As an astringent, malic acid applied to the skin’s surface sloughs away dead skin cells that normally block pores and cause acne. It is also antibacterial in nature to stave off skin infections.

• The body produces less collagen as it ages. Collagen builds and repairs skin cells, and its waning significantly increases the appearance of wrinkles in the skin. Malic acid penetrates the skin’s outermost layer, the epidermis, to the collagen-producing dermis, where it stimulates collagen production. More collagen equates to fewer wrinkles.

• Malic acid is a mouthwash and toothpaste additive since it enhances the production of saliva. Saliva washes away oral bacteria, and the acidic environment created when malic acid enters the mouth acts as an antiseptic to help kill remaining bacteria.

Learn more about malic acid and other important chemicals that aid your body by contacting the knowledgeable representatives at Jacksonville chemical supplier, Bell Chem, at (407) 339-BELL (2355), or browse the website for information on their entire chemical lineup.