PABA — para-aminobenzoic acid
PABA is a micronutrient, sometimes referred to as vitamin
Bx, though not a vitamin per se because it is not considered
essential to human health and it can be produced in the body
from folic acid.
PABA assists in forming red blood cells (erythrocytes),
improves the body's use of protein, and promotes the
production of folic acid by intestinal bacteria. It is also
known to have beneficial effects on hair. PABA works best
in concert with vitamin C and is considered a member of the
vitamin B complex, though again, not strictly a vitamin itself.
PABA is, however, a potent antioxidant.
Taking sulfa drugs may cause PABA dysregulation. This deficiency
may manifest as fatigue, irritability, depression and constipation.
It can also cause weeping eczema and patchy skin.
Food sources of PABA include rice, eggs, molasses, wheat
germ and brewer's yeast.
Health benefits of PABA
- Assists in forming red blood cells
- Important growth factor for intestinal microorganisms,
aiding production of folic acid
- Powerful antioxidant
- May help rejuvenate hair and skin naturally
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Principal Author: M. Ofiyeva
Date of Initial Publication: 09/07/2007
Article Last Updated: 08/26/2009
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