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PABA

PABA (paraaminobenzoic acid) is a substance that has only recently attracted the attention of vitamin researchers. Since then, PABA has been regarded as the beauty vitamin. This is due to the fact that, according to American biochemists, PABA has the ability to slow down the ageing process and prevent the formation of wrinkles, creases and gray hair. If gray hair appears too early, or if large sections of our hair turn gray very quickly, a lack of PABA is often to blame. It is a fact that PABA is concentrated in the skin cells. It reacts biologically with certain protective substances when exposed to intense sunlight. This filters out those rays from the ultraviolet light spectrum that can cause sunburn or even skin cancer. PABA is a component of folic acid and has many other functions: It activates the intestinal flora, protects the intestinal walls, is involved as a coenzyme in the utilization of protein as well as in the formation of red blood cells. Para-aminobenzoic acid is sometimes counted as part of the vitamin B complex, but is not generally recognized as a vitamin. It is necessary for the utilization of proteins, therefore also interacts with the B vitamins and protects the skin from sunlight. As a component of folic acid, it has many other functions: It activates the intestinal flora, protects the intestinal walls and helps to prevent unpleasant reactions in the stomach and intestines in the case of gluten sensitivity.PABA has only relatively recently become the focus of interest among vitamin researchers. This is due to the fact that, according to American biochemists, PABA has the ability to slow down the aging process and prevent the formation of wrinkles, folds and gray hair. If grey hair appears too early, or if large parts of our hair turn grey very quickly, a lack of PABA is often to blame, and supplementation with Paba can optimize muscle growth through its effect on protein utilization. However, it has not yet been scientifically proven whether this requires a deficiency or whether the effect occurs even without a deficiency. It is mainly found in liver, yeast, wholegrain products and yogurt. In the past it was also known as growth substance H or vitamin H. The usual dosage is 30-100 mg. For some skin diseases, doctors prescribe doses of up to 20 g, although this is not recommended for self-testing.

Symptoms of deficiency

The following symptoms have been observed with a PABA deficiency:

  • Nervousness
  • anemia
  • constipation
  • fatigue
  • headaches
  • indigestion
  • Eczema

Occurrence

Particularly rich sources of PABA are: Wheat germ, whole grains, yoghurt, liver, molasses and brewer's yeast.

Important for

  • Co-factors in the breakdown and utilization of protein
  • Promotes growth
  • Formation of red blood cells
  • Helps bacteria to produce folic acid
  • Sun protection and
  • Keeping skin and hair healthy.