PABA - Benefits, Deficiency Symptoms And Food Sources

Alternative name :: Para-Aminobenzoic Acid and Sunscreen vitamin

PABA is the shortened name for para-aminobenzoic acid that is often thought of as only an ingredient used in sunscreens, while it is in actual fact a nutritional ingredient as well. Since it is a moiety of PGA, a form of folic acid, some health professionals do not consider it a vitamin, but only a B-complex factor.

Benefits of PABA

PABA is most commonly known for its ability to protect the skin from the harmful rays of the sun when used topically. It has also been suggested that PABA may prevent or even reverse the accumulation of abnormal fibrous tissue in the body.

Pharmaceutical doses of PABA are indicated for Peyronie's disease, scleroderma, morphea, and linear scleroderma. There is less evidence to indicate its use for pemphigus and dermatomyositis. Claims that it can halt hair loss and restore color to graying hair are entirely anecdotal.

PABA is important for healthy hair and skin, and taking it in supplement form may prevent hair loss by protecting hair follicles. Interestingly, people who have gone gray may experience a return of their natural hair color by taking PABA , but only if they are deficient in B vitamins. Not all studies have shown that this is effective, however.

Recommended Dosage of PABA

The minimum Recommended Dosage Allowance of PABA are :-

• Adults - 400 mcg.
• Children - 200 to 300 mcg.
• Infants - 50 mcg.
• Pregnant women - 800 mcg.
• Lactation - 600 mcg.

Rich sources of PABA

Foods that contain PABA include molasses, brewer's yeast, liver, whole grains and eggs .

Deficiency Symptoms of PABA

Symptoms of PABA deficiency includes :-

• Eczema and wrinkles
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Graying of the hair
• Senility
• Arthritis and bursitis
• Depression

PABA Toxicity

If PABA is taken continuously in high doses, it may exhibit toxic effects on the liver. PABA is stored in the tissues.