Question: Why does lactic acid build up in your muscles? How do you get rid of it?

Shikha Sharma answered on 12 Nov 2014:

Hi 439bera39,
Lactic acid is produced in anaerobic conditions where the pyruvate ferments to form lactic acid. In our body glucose is broken down to produce pyruvate which supplies energy to the muscles. Pyruvate provides energy to cells when oxygen is present. In anaerobic conditions, the pyruvate ferments to produce lactic acid. The lactic acid is used by your muscle cells to continue the process of metabolism of glucose for energy production. Anaerobic energy production can continue at a high rate for more than three minutes during which time lactic acid can accumulate in our muscles. High levels of lactic acid will raise the acidity of our muscles. The breakdown of glucose in the muscles is then inhibited in this acidic environment. This is our body’s natural way of trying to prevent damage from muscle exertion and returning balance.

Increase your fluid intake during and after your workout. Liquids help remove the lactic acid in your muscles, relieving the ache and burning. Eat foods with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, tomatoes, grapes or lettuce as part of your post-workout meal. Regular workouts are a good way to prevent muscle aches due to lactic acid build up.