Para-aminobenzoic Acid - An Unofficial B Complex Vitamin

Para-aminobenzoic acid (also known as PABA or vitamin Bx) is an unofficial B complex vitamin that is part of vitamin B9. It is a powerful antioxidant (a substance which protects the body's cells from oxygen related damage) which also promotes healthy hair, skin and much more. In this article I will be discussing this nutrient in greater detail and providing you with a summary of its main functions, the best food sources, the recommended daily allowances (RDAs) and the potentially adverse effects of consuming too much or too little.

1) DISCOVERY:

Para-aminobenzoic acid was discovered by E.T. Krebs in 1943.

2) FUNCTION:

Para-aminobenzoic acid has many important functions in the body. As discussed above, it is a powerful antioxidant which keeps the hair and skin healthy. In addition to this, para-aminobenzoic acid assists in the maintenance of intestinal flora (microorganisms that support intestinal health), assists in the utilisation of vitamin B5, helps the body break down and utilise protein and supports the production of red blood cells.

Preliminary research suggests that this nutrient may have even more health benefits. These potential health benefits include possibly restoring grey hair to its original colour (when taken in conjunction with other vitamins), possibly increasing fertility in women and possibly restoring hair (when taken in conjunction with other vitamins).

3) RDA:

Para-aminobenzoic acid is not an official vitamin so it currently has no RDA. However, most sources advise you to consume between 30 milligrams (mg) and 100mg of this nutrient each day to take advantage of the health benefits listed above. Therapeutic doses of up to 200mg per day in children and 400mg per day in adults are believed to be safe but you are advised to consult your doctor before consuming large amounts of this nutrient.

4) FOOD SOURCES:

Para-aminobenzoic acid can be found in a wide range of foods including green leafy vegetables, mushrooms and organ meats. However, little information has been published on the exact amounts of this nutrient that these foods contain.

5) OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS:

Consuming too much para-aminobenzoic acid can cause toxic levels to build up within the body. As discussed above, eating up to 400mg of this nutrient each day is believed to be safe. Taking more than this can lead to a number of overdose symptoms including fevers, nausea, skin rashes and vomiting.

6) DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:

The human body can produce some para-aminobenzoic acid so deficiencies are extremely rare. When they do occur it is usually the result of taking antibiotics which prevent the body from producing this nutrient. The symptoms of deficiency include constipation, depression, eczema, headaches, irritability and premature wrinkling of the skin.