One of the benefits of the acid is that it may help prevent the formation of fat in the body. This is because it inhibits the enzyme citrate lyase from converting stored or unused sugar into fat. Instead, this sugar is converted into glycogen, which may be used as a source of energy. In addition, the acid may regulate the release of serotonin, a hormone that affects one’s mood and appetite. When one has high levels of serotonin, they tend to feel cheerful and their food cravings are suppressed.