Malic acid is a natural element of fruit acids, called alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), found in fruits and some vegetables. The word malic acid is derived from the Latin word malum, which means apple. It was first isolated from apple juice in 1785, which renders some foods and drinks a tart taste. Malic acid is also a key ingredient in churning wine, that gives wine a slightly acidic taste. 
The body also secretes malic acid naturally, while converting carbohydrates into energy. It produces chemical energy that is mainly required for regulating energy production, easing bodily discomfort, detoxification and oral hygiene. Malic acid is now a common ingredient in skin and hair care products like body lotion, shampoos and acne and anti-ageing essentials. Alpha hydroxy acids stimulate the exfoliation of skin cells by interfering with cells bond. Thus, it regenerates new skin cells and fades away dull-looking skin. Skincare essentials containing malic acids supports to enhance skin hydration, remove dead skin cells, improve skin tone and lessen wrinkles.
Also Read: Butyric Acid: Discover The Incredible Health Benefits Of This Short-chain Fatty Acid
Food Sources Rich In Malic Acid
Some of the foods and food products that are a good source of malic acid include:
Fruits: Apples are one of the wealthiest sources of malic acid. Bananas, cherries, grapes, mangos, strawberries, nectarines and oranges are other fruits that are fairly a good source.
Vegetables: Broccoli, beans, carrots, peas, and potatoes are some of the vegetables laden with malic acid.
Beverages: Carbonated and non-carbonated drinks, iced tea, fruit-flavoured drinks and alcoholic apple cider and wine also contain malic acid.
Soft candies, chewing gum, preserved fruits and bakery products with fruits fillings are some of the edible sources that contain malic acid.
Malic acid is also readily available in the form of a supplement. However, seek advice from your healthcare provider before taking any supplement.
Potential Health Benefits Of Malic Acid
Combats Fibromyalgia
Evidence has strongly proven that malic acid can help mitigate pain associated with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. It is more effective when taken along with magnesium. This acid also enhances tolerance to exercise, improve muscle endurance and stamina, thereby helps to ease chronic fatigue syndrome. Besides these, malic acid also boosts energy levels and keep you active all through the day.
Also Read: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Dental Health
Malic acid works well in treating xerostomia or dry mouth, by stimulating the production of saliva. Increased salivary production reduces the harmful bacteria in the mouth, thus malic acid serves as a potent oral detox agent. The natural astringent properties of malic acid aids to remove surface discolouration and whiten teeth. Malic acid is widely used as a key element in toothpaste and mouthwashes.
Augments Liver Health
Malic acid is a potent metal chelator, which binds to the toxic metals accumulated in the liver and deactivates them. It is also beneficial in breaking up gallstones and cleanses the liver. Eliminating gallstones in the gallbladder increases bile secretion and improve bile flow, which reduces the accumulation of cholesterol and fat in the liver and reveres fatty liver disease.
Healthy Skin
Malic acid is a chief ingredient commonly used in anti-ageing creams and skincare essentials. The goodness of bioactive compound in malic acid brightens the skin and enhance skin texture and complexion. The acid also helps to balance the pH of the skin, which clears dead skin cells and works great in healing acne. Apart from these, it also acts as a humectant that aids to keep skin nourished and hydrated.
Remedies Dandruff
The natural acidic nature of malic acid is known to combat bacteria and eliminates dandruff. Malic acid neutralizes the pH of the hair follicles and clears way dirt particles and makes the mane lustrous. Washing your hair with diluted apple cider vinegar twice a week before shampooing promotes hair growth, as it is a good source of malic acid.
Side Effects
Malic acid is safe when taken in moderate amounts in the form of food. Little is known about the long-term or regular use of malic acid supplements. It is known to trigger certain side effects such as headaches, diarrhoea, nausea and irritations. Although malic acid is considered safe when applied topically to the skin in the recommended amounts, while some people may have irritation, itching, redness and other side effects. It is always good to do a skin patch test before using any new products.
Additional Benefits Of Malic Acid
Used In Skincare
Malic acid is an active ingredient in several skincare products. It is known to help exfoliate the skin and improve its texture which diminishes fine lines and wrinkles.
Used As A Preservative
Malic acid is also used as a preservative as it helps preserve foods by preventing them from spoiling quickly. Moreover, malic acid is also used to add an acidic or sour taste to foods and soft beverages.
Used To Enhance Flavor Of Food
Malic acid has a typical aroma. For this reason, it is used to add a tart taste to foods and drinks which help to augment the flavour of a food item. It is extensively used in candies and soft drinks.
(This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu Ayurveda Pharma Expert)
Author Profile
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
- Microbial Biosynthesis of L-Malic Acid and Related Metabolic Engineering Strategies: Advances and Prospects
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/bioengineering-and-biotechnology/articles/10.3389/fbioe.2021.765685/full
Zhen Wei, Yongxue Xu, Yongxue Xu, Qing Xu, Wei Cao
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9159917/
