In the world of vitamins there are both celebrities, known to everyone and everyone, and heroes of the second plan, about which only a few people know.
It is to such little-studied substances belongs vitamin B15, better known as pangamic acid.
Despite its modest status, pangamic acid has gained popularity among athletes, promising increased endurance and antioxidant protection.
How justified are these hopes and why should you take a closer look at this little-known substance?
What is pangamic acid and where is it found?
Pangamic acid is an ester of dimethylglycine and gluconic acid. It was first isolated from apricot seeds in 1951. This substance is not considered an essential vitamin for humans, but it has a number of interesting physiological effects [1].
Table 1: Main sources of pangamic acid (B15)
| Product | B15 content |
|---|---|
| Apricot seeds | High |
| Pumpkin and sesame seeds | Average |
| Rice bran | Average |
| Brewer’s yeast | Average |
| Whole-grain products | Low |
Effects on athletic endurance: a scientific perspective
Athletes are among the first to appreciate the potential benefits of vitamin B15. Pangamic acid has been reported to be able to improve oxygen metabolism in tissues, reduce lactate levels, and increase the energy potential of cells [2].
A 2021 study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that dimethylglycine (a structural component of pangamic acid) can modestly improve aerobic capacity in young athletes and reduce feelings of fatigue after intense exercise [3].
However, it is important to emphasize that the efficacy of pangamic acid has not yet been sufficiently validated on a large scale, and more research is needed.
Antioxidant activity of vitamin B15
Pangamic acid also attracts attention due to its antioxidant properties.
Antioxidants are substances that can neutralize free radicals, preventing cell damage and slowing down the aging process.
American researchers found that dimethylglycine, a component of vitamin B15, has pronounced antioxidant properties and is able to protect cells from oxidative stress [4].
This is especially important during regular physical activity, when the formation of free radicals increases.
Table 2. Potential effects of pangamic acid (B15)
| Effect | Degree of evidence | Commentary |
|---|---|---|
| Increased endurance | Moderate | Requires validation on large samples |
| Antioxidant protection | High | Confirmed in vitro and in animal models |
| Improvement of oxygen metabolism | Moderate | Requires additional research |
Applications in dermatology: an unexpected bonus?
As a dermatologist, I would like to point out that the antioxidant properties of B15 can potentially have a positive effect on skin conditions.
Protecting skin cells from free radicals is an important part of preventing premature aging and photodamage.
However, so far these effects are poorly understood and have not yet entered routine dermatologic practice.
Prospects for further research in dermatology are undoubtedly present here.
Safety and side effects
Despite its overall safety, exceeding recommended doses of vitamin B15 may result in headaches, nausea, and allergic reactions.
Caution should be exercised and be sure to consult a physician before starting to take it, especially if you have chronic medical conditions.
Conclusion and recommendations
To date, vitamin B15 is an interesting but understudied substance.
Its promise for improving athletic performance and antioxidant defense is intriguing and deserves additional clinical research.
It is important for health care providers to inform patients that although the potential of vitamin B15 is encouraging, it should not be viewed as a miracle drug.
The best approach is to take comprehensive care of one’s health and to take any biologically active ingredient wisely.
Literature
- Walter Last. Vitamins: Their Role in the Human Body. International Journal of Nutritional Science, 2020;8(1):12-18.
- Earnest CP et al. Nutritional Supplements for Endurance Athletes. Sports Medicine, 2020;50(2):257-271.
- Bailey DM, et al. Influence of dimethylglycine supplementation on aerobic capacity. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 2021;35(3):752-760.
- Kendall RV, Lawson JW. Recent findings on the biological activity of dimethylglycine. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 2022;104(2):198-204.
About the Author
