Vitamin B5 (Panthothenic Acid, Calcium Pantothenate, Panthenol)

Vitamin B5 is found in brewer’s yeast, liver, kidney, wheat bran, crude molasses, whole grains, egg yolk, peanuts, peas, sunflower seeds, beef, chicken, turkey, milk, and royal jelly. Vitamin B5 is quite stable and little is lost during cooking.

Vitamin B5 is necessary for the formation of co-enzyme A and the acyl carrier protein, which play important roles in the release of energy from fats, protein, and carbohydrates. It also helps to synthesize cholesterol,  steroids, and fatty acids, and is required for healthy growth and the production of antibodies to help fight infection. Vitamin B5 is important for the normal functioning of the adrenal glands and the production of cortisone. Some research has suggested that it may be useful for alleviating the symptoms of arthritis.

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS include a burning sensation in the feet; enlarged beefy, furrowed tongue; skin disorders such as eczema; duodenal ulcers, inflammation of the intestines and stomach; decreased antibody formation; upper respiratory infections; vomiting; restlessness; muscle cramps; constipation; sensitivity to insulin; adrenal exhaustion; physical and mental depression; overwhelming fatigue; reduced production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach; allergies; arthritis; nerve degeneration; spinal curvature; disturbed pulse rate; gout; graying hair.

Pantothenic acid comes in sold in two forms: calcium pantothenate, which is typically used for treating conditions such as stress and heartburn, and pantethine, which is used to lower cholesterol levels. 10-20mg in a B-complex supplement or up to 50mg in divided doses. No RDA has been established in the US, however most experts recommend an intake of 4mg to 7mg. The European RDA is 6mg. MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL: 1000mg &emdash; doses of around 10,000mg cause diarrhoea and gastrointestinal disturbances

Vitamin B5 is not known to cause side effects, except in excessively large doses.

SOLUBILITY: Water soluble