What Is Vitamin B15?

Vitamin B15, also known as pangamic acid, is part of a group of B vitamins that are important for cell metabolism. They are water-soluble and each vitamin in the group is distinct and are many times found in the same foods. Supplements containing the eight main types of vitamin B are referred to as vitamin B complex. Vitamin B15 isn't considered part of the main 8 vitamins that make up vitamin B complex.

History

Two doctors, Dr. Ernest Krebs, Sr. and Dr. Krebs, Jr., first discovered vitamin B15 in 1951 through experiments with apricot kernels. It was unsure if vitamin B15 was considered essential to humans or useful as a vitamin. Until the 1970s, vitamin B15 was included in supplement production. Today, it is illegal to distribute vitamin B15.

Function

Vitamin B15 is a methyl donor, which means it helps in the formation of amino acids. It may assist in the oxidation of glucose and cell reproduction. It is an antioxidant, which is beneficial to overall health. It may also be a stimulant to the endocrine system, which encourages liver function to help with body detoxification.

Uses

Because vitamin B15 is not allowed for human use in the United States, there haven't been many documented case studies on its benefits. According to Elson M. Haas, M.D., vitamin B15 is thought to be helpful with metabolic problems such as loss of energy and weight issues. It may help with hypertension and atherosclerosis.

Russia

Pangamic acid is used to treat alcohol related problems and is widely used in Russia. It lowers craving and alleviates hangover. Vitamin B15 is also used to treat fatigue, asthma, allergies and rheumatism. It has also been used to treat disturbed children and children with autism. Vitamin B15 is thought to have many benefits in Russia and is used as a supplement.

Europe

Vitamin B15 is used in Europe for its abilities to assist with anti-aging of the skin. It is a great circulatory stimulant and antioxidant. Vitamin B15 helps the body fight pollutants, especially carbon monoxide. It is considered very beneficial for those that live in a populated area or are under great stress.

The United States

The FDA has not approved use of Vitamin B15 in the United States. There is another common form of pangamic acid called calcium pangamate, or dimethyl glycine (DMG), which is often taken along with vitamin E and A to improve energy levels. Dr. Kendall, the DMG Doctor, feels DMG is beneficial in treating conditions such as skin disorders, circulatory problems, epilepsy, migraines, asthma, allergies and autoimmune diseases.