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Lactic acid is one of those compounds that are present in our everyday life, but we rarely think about its importance. In this article, we will take a closer look at lactic acid, its properties, applications in the treatment of diseases, role in cosmetics and other interesting aspects of its function in the body.
Lactic acid – what is lactic acid? its properties and action
Lactic acid, chemically denoted as C3H6O3, is an organic carboxylic acid. It is a chemical compound that occurs naturally in many foods, such as yogurt, kefir, pickled vegetables and cheese. It is produced as a result of lactic fermentation, which occurs thanks to lactic acid bacteria, primarily Lactobacillus and Streptococcus.
One of the main properties of lactic acid is its ability to lower pH, making it a low pH organic acid. It is this feature that gives it its characteristic taste and acidic smell. Lactic acid also plays a key role in the body’s metabolic processes. In the process of glycolysis, lactic acid is produced as a by-product of the breakdown of glucose in the absence of oxygen, which is especially important during intense physical exercise.
Importantly, lactic acid has many applications beyond metabolic processes. It is used in the food industry as a pH regulator, preservative and acidifying agent. It is also important in the production of cosmetics and in medicine.
Lactic acid – use in the treatment of diseases
Lactic acid has been used in medicine, especially in the field of orthopedics and rehabilitation. It is used as a medicine to treat various musculoskeletal conditions such as knee joint or back pain. Lactic acid helps reduce pain and inflammation by influencing metabolic processes and reducing the build-up of uric acid in tissues.
Lactic acid is also used in dermatology, where chemical peels containing this ingredient help reduce skin discoloration, wrinkles and other skin imperfections. This works by exfoliating dead skin cells and stimulating collagen production, which leads to skin renewal.
Lactic acid in cosmetics
Lactic acid also finds its place in the world of cosmetics. It is used in skin care products such as creams, scrubs, masks and serums. It works gently on the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells, lighten discolorations and smooth the skin. In addition, lactic acid can be an effective agent in the fight against acne because it has antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Your suggestions
If you are wondering whether lactic acid supplementation may be beneficial to you, it is always worth consulting your doctor or nutritionist. Lactic acid supplementation may be helpful in some cases, e.g. in improving muscle performance or as part of an athletes diet. However, you should always remember about moderation and understanding your own needs.
Recommended articles
If you want to learn more about lactic acid and its uses, we recommend you read the following articles:
- Lactic acid and a healthy diet
- Lactic acid in sports – how does it affect performance?
- The use of lactic acid in cosmetics
Lactic acid is a compound with fascinating properties and a wide range of applications. It is worth getting to know it better and using its potential both in diet, skin care and treatment of diseases. However, remember to have appropriate knowledge and consult an expert before taking any action related to lactic acid.
We encourage you to further explore the topic and explore its possibilities!