General Description
Malic acid (also known as hydroxysuccinic acid) is an organic acid
that plays a role in the complex series of reactions (Krebs' cycle)
by which sugars, fatty acids, and amino acids are metabolized to
release energy. Manufactured in the body from fumaric acid, malic
acid is also found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, with apples
and wine being particularly good sources. It is also available as
a dietary supplement.
Health Applications
Primary Uses
Malic acid is widely promoted as a treatment for fibromyalgia
symptoms, based primarily on anecdotal evidence with little scientific
support. The results from one small, open-label study suggest
that large doses of malic acid (up to 2,400 mg per day) combined
with magnesium (up to 600 mg per day) may reduce pain severity
in fibromyalgia sufferers,1 but these effects
have not been demonstrated in well-controlled clinical trials.
Research indicates that malic acid combined with potassium may
increase physical working capacity in rats,2
but its potential for reducing fatigue in humans has not been
determined.
Dosage/Toxicity
Fibromyalgia studies have used doses ranging from 1,200 to 2,400
mg of malic acid (combined with 300 to 600 mg of magnesium) per
day.1 Malic acid has low toxicity and appears
to be well tolerated at this dosage range. |
