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Paba - Benefits, Deficiency Symptoms And Food Sources

Other names :: Para-Aminobenzoic Acid and Sunscreen vitamin

An abbreviation for para-aminobenzoic acid, PABA appears to be a component of folic acid, a member of the B family of vitamins. It is made by intestinal bacteria and can be found in bran, brown rice, kidney, liver, molasses, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, whole-grain products and yogurt. Vitamin C and the B group vitamins , plus Folic Acid are best taken with PABA.

Actions and benefits of Paba

• Promotes growth.
• Treats vitilgo, a condition characterized by discoloration or depigmentation of some areas of the skin.
• Good for skin, hair.
• May treat arthritis.
• Para-aminobenzoic acid is used in sunscreen preparations since it can help protect the skin against ultra-violet radiation. 

Recommended dosage of Paba

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

Signs of Overdose

When higher than factor (SPF) 8 sunscreens are used, the manufacture of vitamin D in the body may be reduced. Nausea, skin rashes and vomiting might be indicative of PABA taken in excess.

Excessive levels of PABA are stored in the body and may cause liver damage

Deficiency symptoms of Paba

• Graying of the hair.
• Irritability.
• Nervousness.
• Patchy areas of white skin.
• Depression.
• Fatigue.
• Gastrointestinal disorders.

When more may be required

Long term antibiotic use may require more PABA from the body, but take note of PABA affecting the ability of sulfa drugs. Although not documented in medical terms, some women having problems falling pregnant claim conceiving after increasing PABA in their diet.

Best food sources of Paba

Molasses, bran, brown rice, sunflower seeds, spinach, wheat germ.

How to use Paba

Available as:-

• PABA is an ingredient in many topical sunscreen products.
• PABA is an ingredient in many multivitamin/mineral preparations.

Storage

• Keep in a cool and dry location, but do not freeze.
• Keep safely away from children.
• Do not keep in bathroom medicine cabinet. Heat and dampness may alter the action of the supplement.