Citric acid can easily bind minerals and metals, which is also known as chelation. Taking specific minerals with citric acid has certain benefits, as the body is easier to digest and absorb chelated minerals. For example, some calcium supplements are in the form of calcium citrate, which can be better absorbed by the human body.
The ability of citric acid to bind to other minerals helps to soften water. Soap and detergents are also more effective when containing citric acid. It can enhance the effectiveness of shampoo because citric acid has a tendency to remove excess minerals from water. Of course, high concentrations of citric acid can sometimes damage hair because it can open the outer skin of the hair, peel off the minerals needed by the hair, and bleach it.
Citric acid is also a commonly used food additive. It can be added as a seasoning to various beverages. It is also a good meat tenderizer because citric acid has a tendency to break down meat proteins. But it has a bitter taste, so its main use in food is to increase the acidity of candy. When purchasing sour candies, you may notice that their surface is covered with a layer of white powder. This is the citric acid that gives candy a sour taste.
Citric acid can also be found in different cleaning products, especially in some beauty products. The combination of citric acid and sodium bicarbonate can produce bath bubbles and bath tablets. The combination of these two substances can generate carbon dioxide and pleasant bubbling water.
Citric acid is also a common ingredient in skin care facial mask and lotion. However, it should be noted that excessive use of citric acid can cause mild skin irritation, so it is best not to use skincare products containing citric acid for sensitive skin.
The biggest benefit of citric acid is that it is natural and not harmful to the environment. Only a few people are allergic to citric acid, and there are also some people who may have gastrointestinal allergies to it, so it is best to avoid foods containing it. Due to the fact that many foods also use citric acid as a preservative.
