|  | Diet Nutrition | Vitamins

What Are the Dangers of Citric Acids?

Citric acid is the most common source of vitamin C, the vitamin used to boost the immune system and to fight the common cold. Some people take vitamin C or consume citrus fruits every day as a preventative measure; unfortunately, citric acid consumed in large amounts may be more detrimental than helpful.

  1. Dangers

    • When used in moderation, citric acid is a healthy dietary supplement, but too much citric acid can cause several problems. Excessive citric acid can result in the loss of enamel on the teeth, and in some cases even the loss of teeth. Ulcers may develop in the mouth, throat, esophagus and the stomach, and will be prevented from healing because of the citric acid. Citric acid may harm the kidneys, as the stomach cannot tolerate excessive amounts of citric acid and may spill it over into the kidneys, which are unable to break down citric acid.

    Reasons

    • Acids react with bases, but may corrode or deteriorate neutrals. Just like stomach acid, citric acid will eat away at many of the things it touches. When too much citric acid is present, vomiting can cause the esophagus to become irritated and the teeth to deteriorate.

    Uses

    • Citric acid is not only present in citrus foods, but may also be used as a preservative for other foods. Citric acid is used in cleaning solutions, specifically those offering natural alternatives to cleaning. Because the acid eats away at other materials, it is ideal for natural cleaning, as it will eat away at bacteria and stuck-on messes. But the contact with human skin can eventually start to show, in the form of reddened skin or rashes.

    Considerations

    • If you look at nutrition labels, you will discover just how many foods contain citric acid. Most foods containing citric acids are foods in which the acid is used for preservation, such as with many candies and sodas. Many sour candies are often covered in a white, bitter-tasting powder---citric acid. Citric fruits such as lemon, lime, grapefruit, oranges and tangerines contain the highest levels of citric acid as compared to other foods. Other fruits that contain citric acid include raspberries, blackberries and tomatoes. Wine and sherbet contain levels of citric acid. Some shampoos, facial masks and scrubs contain citric acid as well.

    Warning Signs & Symptoms

    • If you consume citric acid on a regular basis or use different products containing citric acid, you may see signs of the damage caused by too much citric acid. Sore throats may develop. Rashes may break out on skin that is exposed to citric acid. Although someone without an allergy may develop these problems, people with citric acid allergies will continue to see the symptoms until all citric acid has been removed from the the diet or is no longer allowed to touch the skin.

Vitamins - Related Articles