Malic Acid and its Potential Benefits
Malic acid may be, as the name applies, acidic as well as sour, but these properties add to its charm. With benefits ranging from skin care to dry mouth assistance, your USP ingredient supplier Bell Chem knows this ingredient should be a staple in your business.
Cosmetics
Malic acid works wonders on your complexion as it sloughs away dead skin cells on the surface of the epidermis by breaking the bonds between cells. This makes it ideal for many individuals who suffer with acne or older folks who wish to revitalize their skin. Your cells are built and maintained by the protein collagen, which gives skin more support and flexibility. As we age, collagen is not as abundant, which causes wrinkles and loss of elasticity. Malic acid stimulates collagen production.
It has also shown to help those with skin disorders. Melasma is a disorder characterized by areas of more darkly pigmented skin. A 2013 study determined repeated applications of vitamin C and malic acid lightened areas of melasma as long as the regimen lasted. However, the benefits go beyond anti-aging and skin healing properties. Malic acid is often an ingredient in shampoos, nail treatments, and lotions since it acts as a humectant by keeping skin, nails, and hair hydrated and supple.
Medicine
Medical professionals often prescribe malic acid as a spray or lozenge since its pungent flavor activates taste buds, causing salivation in those patients who suffer from dry mouth. For patients with a propensity to kidney stones, malic acid is often prescribed since it is the precursor to citrate, which may prevent the formation and growth of kidney stones as it increases the pH of urine. Malic acid also catalyzes important minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. When the mineral and malic acid are attached, the mineral is more easily absorbed.
Energy levels may also be improved with the addition of malic acid in the diet, since it is a key component in the Krebs cycle, a body process that creates energy. Athletes likewise benefit from malic acid as they train since it increases energy endurance levels. Creatine, long associated with elite athletic training, is more quickly absorbed by the body’s tissues when taken with malic acid. A 2015 study noted sprinters taking the malic acid/creatine supplements had increased peak power, body composition, growth hormone levels, and total work while long distance runners increased overall distance run.
Foods and Beverages
The tangy kick of malic acid is frequently used as a food flavoring, especially in extremely sour candies. As an acid, malic acid prevents the oxidation of foods, maintaining their fresh appearance longer. Malic acid’s acidity also proves to be antimicrobial. Both these factors increase the shelf life of products.
The secret ingredient in low-calorie beverages is malic acid since the intense fruity flavor stimulates the brain into believing the drink is sweeter than it truly is. In fact, 51% of all malic acid used industry wide is in beverages.
Bell Chem is a sanitation chemical supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including malic acid. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.