lactic acid

lactic acid A simple sugar that is the byproduct of glucose metabolism. Most lactic acid is produced by the red blood cells and by muscle cells when oxygen levels are low. When lactic acid accumulates rapidly in the muscle cells during or just after exercise, cramping can result. When lactic acid builds up faster than it can be removed by the body, lactic acidosis is the result. Lactic acidosis can occur with intensive exercise or may be related to medical conditions.