Citric acid is a weak organic acid found in many foods. Some fruits, including citrus and berries, contain natural citric acid. It contributes to their characteristic tangy flavor.
Synthetic (human-made) versions of citric acid are also available. Citric acid has many purposes across industries like food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. When added to foods, it helps enhance flavor, preserve foods, and balance pH, among other functions.
Citrate is a related compound that comes from citric acid. This is often the version that you’ll find in supplements or processed food products.
Citric acid and your health: Is it bad for you?
Citric acid isn’t necessarily bad for you. In fact, most people won’t experience any issues when consuming smaller amounts of citric acid as part of their everyday diet.
Benefits
Research actually suggests some areas where citric acid may benefit your health by:
- Improving mineral absorption: According to a 2022 paper, citric acid can increase the absorption of minerals like calcium in your gut.
- Supporting bone health: The same 2022 paper explains that citrate influences bone strength, stability, and regeneration. For instance, some dentists use it to support tooth tissue regeneration.
- Enhancing skin health: Citric acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that may improve skin health. A 2018 paper suggests that AHAs may help with acne and reduce the chance of cancerous developments in the skin after exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) sunlight.
- Reducing the chance of kidney stones: A 2015 systematic review concluded that citric acid can reduce the risk of kidney stone development. It may be especially beneficial for people with a condition called hypocitraturia, where the urine does not excrete enough citrate.
- Promoting wound healing: Emerging research, such as a 2022 case report and a 2020 study, suggests that citric acid ointments may support the healing of infected wounds like diabetic ulcers.
However, research on most of these benefits is only in the early stages. More studies are needed before researchers can say for certain how citric acid and the related compound citrate can benefit human health.
Risks
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has categorized citric acid as generally safe. This means there are no limitations to its use in foods.
Still, you have some risks to consider when supplementing or increasing your consumption of citric acid:
- Dental health: Citric acid may contribute to the erosion of your tooth enamel, particularly when eaten in excess.
- Stomach upset and reflux: Consuming acidic foods, like those high in citric acid, may cause stomach upset, heartburn, and reflux for some people. Individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may be especially susceptible.
- Aluminum toxicity: Consuming citric acid with aluminum hydroxide — found in some antacids — may increase aluminum absorption. In turn, this can increase your risk of aluminum toxicity.
- Skin irritation: If you use products with citric acid on the skin, be aware that it may cause irritation. For example, in some cases, organic acids like citric acid may cause itchiness, burning, and swelling.
- Allergic reactions: A 2018 report notes that certain citric acid — produced when a black mold called Aspergillus niger feeds on sugar — can cause severe reactions in people who are allergic to mold.
- Metabolic acidosis: An older 2001 case report describes an event where a person developed metabolic acidosis after consuming a large amount of citric acid. Metabolic acidosis is a dangerous condition where your blood is too acidic.
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