Vitamin B-15

(PANGAMIC ACID)

DESCRIPTION

Vitamin B-15 (Pangamic Acid) is not a vitamin or a nutrient, and its nutritional value is debatable. No scientific evidence exists to substantiate any physiological function for vitamin B-15.

METHOD OF ACTION

No mechanism of action for pangamic acid has been established. The National Academy of Sciences has gone so far as to state that no essential nutrient function has ever been reported in reliable scientific literature for this vitamin.

PROPERTIES AND USES

Although no evidence supports its use, pangamic acid has been used to treat cancer, schizophrenia, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, alcoholism, hepatitis, and indigestion. It has also been asserted that pangamic acid detoxifies by-products of human metabolism.

CONSEQUENCES OF DEFICIENCY

There is no evidence to suggest that a lack of pangamic acid has any adverse effects.

TOXICITY FACTORS

Very little is known about pangamic acid. The Canadian government has prohibited its use because there is no evidence that it is safe for human use.

RECOMMENDED DIETARY ALLOWANCES

There has been no RDA established for pangamic acid as there is no known use for it in human metabolism.

FOOD SOURCES

· Apricot pits

· Brewer's yeast

· Pumpkin seeds

· Sunflower seeds