Succinic acid is a dicarboxylic acid that takes part in the Krebs cycle, a central process for cellular energy. Your body makes it, and you get it from foods like fruits and vegetables. Supplement forms are sold as well.
Marketers often sell these supplements for energy or athletic performance. Research in healthy people, though, is sparse. A few studies have tested it for fibromyalgia or joint discomfort, but the findings are inconclusive.
People typically take it as a capsule or tablet with meals to avoid stomach upset. It sometimes appears in sports nutrition stacks, but the best dose and timing remain unknown.
Large doses can cause nausea or stomach pain. Succinic acid appears safe when taken as directed, but long-term safety data is lacking.