Is lactic acid harmful to the human body?
May 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
If a patient has low physical activity or only engages in light exercises such as slow walking, lactate will not be produced and thus will not harm the body. However, excessive lactate accumulation may lead to strong muscle contractions, significantly increasing blood pressure and causing poor local circulation or insufficient blood supply. This can disrupt the body's acid-base balance and, in severe cases, even trigger acidosis.
Under normal circumstances, lactic acid is not harmful to the human body. However, if lactic acid accumulates in large amounts, it may lead to acidosis, which can be harmful. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Not harmful
If a person does not engage in intense physical activity or only performs mild exercises such as walking, lactic acid typically will not be produced. In the absence of lactic acid production, no harm occurs to the body. Appropriate physical exercise can also accelerate metabolism and help reduce body fat.
2. Harmful
Excessive accumulation of lactic acid may cause strong muscle contractions, significantly increasing pressure on blood vessels, leading to poor local circulation or insufficient blood supply. This can disrupt the body's acid-base balance and, in severe cases, trigger acidosis. Clinically, this may manifest as dizziness, headaches, cold extremities, and a sensation of heaviness in the head.
Lactic acid buildup usually occurs after intense physical activity or strenuous labor. However, due to differences in individual physical conditions, the effects on the body may vary. If obvious discomfort symptoms occur, medical attention at a local hospital should be sought immediately.
