Pantothenic Acid

Chemical Name:Vitamin B5

Description:Pantothenic acid is a water-soluble B vitamin. This vitamin is found in yeasts, molds, bacteria, animal cells and everywhere in between. Pantothenic acid acts as a coenzyme, retrieving glucose from proteins, carbohydrates, fats. The synthesis of cholesterol, steroids, and fatty acids is dependent upon this vitamin.

Absorption/Storage:Pantothenic acid is present in the blood, especially in the plasma. Since this is a water-soluble vitamin, it is excreted and not stored.

Dosage/Toxicity:Older children and adults are recommended to take 4-7mg a day. Younger children of between the ages of 4 and 6 years 3-4mg, children ages 7-10 years 4-5mg, infants 6 months-1 year 3mg, and newborns-6 months 2mg. Before taking more than 10 times the RDA, you should consult with a physician. Mega doses may be unsafe, otherwise, pantothenic acid is considered nontoxic.

Deficiency:Deficiency is rare since this vitamin is widely distributed. A deficiency may be spotted by vomiting, restlessness, abdominal pains, burning feet, muscle cramps, upper respiratory infections, skin disorders, adrenal exhaustion, and low blood sugar.

Common UsePantothenic acid is used to prevent nerve degeneration such as peripheral neuritis and epilepsy. After gastrointestinal surgery, this vitamin has been used to inhibit paralysis. Other uses of pantothenic acid include enhancing energy, heals wounds faster, prevents hair loss as well as graying, retards aging, and fatigue.

Food Sources:Whole grain cereals, organ meats, and egg yolks

Precautions:Those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis should take caution when using this product. Consult a physician if pregnant, symptoms of nausea, diarrhea, or dizziness last more than a week, or if new symptoms appear.

Scientific References: Groff, J., Gropper, S., and Hunt, S. (1995). Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism. St. Paul Minnesota: West Publishing Company. Gropper and Hamilton. (1987). The Biochemistry of Human Nutrition. St. Paul, Minnesota: West Publishing Company. Kirschmann, G. and Kirschmann, J. (1996). Nutrition Almanac. New York, New York: McGraw Hill. Murray, M., (1996) Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Unites States of America: Prima Publishing. Murray, M. and Pizzorno, J., (1998) Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. United States of America: Prima Publishing. National Research Council. (1989). Recommended Dietary Allowance. Washington D.C.: National Academy Press. Null, G., (1998) The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing. New York, New York: Kensington Publishing Corp.