Malic acid is an organic acid that belongs to the class of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (or AHA). It is created in our body, and it can also be obtained from various food sources. Since it is found in almost all fruits, it is often referred to as fruit acid. Apples contain a large amount of malic acid. Other sources are cranberries, grapes, and tomatoes. This acid plays a vital role in the production of internal energy in our body. Therefore, the consumption of foods with high malic acid content or the intake of its supplements is an excellent remedy for various physical ailments, including fibromyalgia. Overview Fibromyalgia is a chronic health disorder that affects mostly middle-aged women. It is characterized by symptoms like pain and stiffness of joints, headache, irritable bowel syndrome, tension, fatigue, and exhaustion. Several studies indicate that the local hypoxia in the muscles is mainly responsible for causing this problem. Hypoxia is a condition, wherein the mechanism of carrying oxygen to the muscle cells of the body fails to function normally. As a result, the muscles get fatigued quite rapidly, and this leads to collapse of the muscle tissues. Treatment Various clinical studies conducted on fibromyalgia patients has shown that malic acid is effective in treating this disorder when administered along with elemental magnesium supplements. Most women reported significant relief from joint pain within the first few days. Basically, this acid is very crucial for energy production at the cellular level. Thus, it improves the stamina as well as physical strength of the fatigued muscle cells. Another benefit is that it eliminates aluminum toxicity from the body. In other words, it blocks the toxic effects of aluminum very effectively. This is important, mainly because aluminum toxicity leads to fibromyalgia. In fibromyalgia patients, it has been found that the ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) level is quite low which often affects the cognitive function of the brain. Magnesium helps to bring the enzyme ATP into its activated state. It is also required for increasing the serotonin levels in the brain which is quite low in these patients. Actually, this component is a brain neurotransmitter that helps in the perception of pain. Some of these patients tend to suffer from magnesium deficiency which may affect some major functions like nerve signaling or muscle contraction of the body. Intake of magnesium will help in restoring normal functioning of these activities. Therefore, malic acid should always be taken in combination with elemental magnesium. The daily recommended dosage is 1,200-2,400 mg along with 300-600 mg of elemental magnesium. However, the exact dose is determined according to the severity of the symptoms in every individual patient. As it is a naturally occurring substance, it is absolutely safe and does not show any serious side effects. In some cases, the prolonged use of malic acid may lead to minor side effects like headache and gastrointestinal symptoms. It does not cause any adverse reaction when taken with any other medicines. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor first before you start taking these supplements. Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.