whether it is truly a vitamin. It is chemically D-gluconodimethyl aminoacetic acid, which was introduced and named as the “vitamin B15” by Russian sports scientists. Many countries have banned the distribution of this vitamin due to lack of sufficient scientific documents to support the beneficial claims.
Functions of Vitamin B15:
- It functions as a methyl donor.
- It has a key role in the formation of methionine.
- It may help the detoxifying processes in the liver.
- It has an antioxidant activity.
Food Sources:
Foods high in vitamin B15 are brewer`s yeast, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, brown rice, apricots kernels, and whole grains.
Athletic Benefits of Vitamin B15:
- May enhance oxygen delivery to the exercising muscles.
- May reduce the accumulation of lactic acid.
- May delay fatigue and exhaustion.
- May improve endurance.
- May help athletes recover rapidly from overtraining syndrome.
- May enhance the effectiveness of creatine monohydrate and citrulline malate.
Non – Athletic Benefits of Vitamin B15:
The following conditions may benefit from vitamin B15:
- As an antioxidant.
- Liver detoxification.
- Chronic fatigue syndrome.
- Hangover.
- Alcoholism.
- Aging.
- Autism.
- Schizophrenia.
- Hypertension.
- Diabetes.
- Fibromyalgia.
- High LDL levels.
- Asthma.
- Dermatitis.
- Eczema.
- Headaches.
Dosage and Side Effects:
No RDA has been established for this vitamin. It is not a part of any B – Complex products. However, it is available in some countries as calcium pangamate in the forms of tablets and injections. It is generally taken 50 – 200 mg per day. Higher doses may cause nausea. Also it may increase the risk of the formation of kidney stones.
Since it has been banned using vitamin B15 in many countries and is not considered safe, you may consult your doctor if you are planning to take it.
Interactions:
- Digoxin: calcium pangamate may increase the effectiveness of this medication.
- Anti – hypertension medications (calcium channel blockers): vitamin B15 may decrease the effectiveness of these medications.
