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Classification of Pyruvate Acid

Pyruvic acid, sometimes referred to colloquially as pyruvate acid, is produced in the body during the metabolism of glucose or glycogen. This, in turn, supplies energy to the body's cells through one of the main metabolic cycles known as Kreb's cycle, or the citric acid cycle. As a supplement, pyruvic acid is formed into salts and esters known as pyruvate, which has been shown to increase fat loss and protein retention.

  1. Pyruvate and Pyruvic Acid

    • Pyruvic acid is formed during the Kreb's cycle inside the body's cells. It has a chemical formula of CH3COCOOH, which forms CH3COCOO ions in solution. During oxygen-rich metabolism, pyruvic acid converts to acetyl coenzyme A to supply the body's cells with energy. If there are low levels of oxygen, pyruvic acid is converted into lactic acid, which is the chemical that makes your muscles ache during exercise.

      A pyruvate is a solid salt or ester made from pyruvic acid. The solid form is more stable for storage than the liquid or solution form of pyruvic acid.

    Classification

    • Pyruvic acid is used in organic metabolism, so it is classified as an organic acid. This is an organic molecule (which is any molecule used by organisms that contains carbon, oxygen and hydrogen) that has acidic properties. When dissolved in water, the pyruvic acid molecule releases a positive hydrogen ion into solution, making it an acidic environment.

    Weight Loss Effect

    • In the 1980s, a study by Dr. Ronald Stanko at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, which was published in the journal "Metabolism," found that when taken as a dietary supplement in rats, pyruvate helped increase fat loss at a rate of 32 percent. Additionally, the data showed that this fat loss was achieved without the usual loss of muscle protein. Since this study, Dr. Stanko has conducted further research on pyruvate with animals and humans. Some studies also suggest that as a dietary supplement, pyruvate may increase muscle endurance.

    Uses

    • As of 2011, pyruvic acid is sold as a dietary supplement in the form of pyruvate salts or esters, which make them stable on a pharmacy shelf. The principal side effect of the pyruvate weight-loss pills is upset stomach and gas. However, anyone considering taking pyruvate as a dietary supplement should consult a doctor or dietitian, especially in connection with a weight-loss regimen.

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