Citric Acid

Citric Acid is an organic acid present in all citrus fruits. Citric acid is formed at the first stage of the Krebs cycle - the most important cycle in the process of aerobic respiration, during which ATP is formed in the human body, in the form of which the energy released during respiration is stored (ed.).



Citric acid (Citric acid) is an organic dibasic organic acid with the properties of a strong inorganic amine; colorless crystals, soluble in water. When heated to 150 °C, self-ionization occurs (no acid). The formula is CH2ClCOOH. Molar mass 93.95 g/mol, density 1.56–1.59 g/cm³, melting point 158 ​​°C, boiling point 175 °C. The product of decarboxylation of citric acid, formed during hydrolysis or oxidation to carboxyl groups of organic compounds, is citrate (sodium), used in food and medicine. The main role in the biochemical reactions of citrus fruits belongs to D-species-specific acid contained in the cell juice of lemons, grapefruits, and oranges. No doubt this has not been the subject of detailed study, but as a guess it can be assumed that this is due to the presence of aspergine - a substance that inhibits the enzymes succinate dehydrogenase and fumarate hydratase, which are found in respiration with reactive oxygen (respiration coupled with the oxidation of most substrates and oxygen due to cytochrome oxidase). It was after



Citric acid is an organic acid that is present in all citrus plants and fruits such as lemon, lime, grapefruit, orange, etc. It plays an important role in the chemical reactions that occur in the human body.

Citric acid is very important for the proper functioning of many processes in our body. For example, it is involved in the Krebs cycle, an important cycle of energy metabolism in the cell. This cycle plays a key role in the formation of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), molecules that are the main source of energy for cells.

When we breathe, oxygen enters the lungs and it participates in the aerobic oxidation reaction. This reaction releases a large amount of energy in the form of ATP. Citric acid is involved in the first stage of this process, where citrate (C6H5O7) is formed, which is a precursor for the formation of ATP.

In addition, citric acid is also necessary for digestion processes. It helps digest food and absorb essential nutrients. Research has shown that eating foods rich in lemons can help improve digestion and reduce symptoms of nausea and vomiting.