Pantothenic Acid

(Vitamin B5)

Chemical formula/structure:

(Picture taken from Wikipedia.org)

In which natural sources is this nutrient found?

It is contained in whole grain cereals, legumes, eggs, meat, royal jelly and many other foods. Vitamin B5 can be found in all living cells.

(Taken from Wikipedia.org and umm.edu)

How it is used by the body?

The body uses it as an antioxidant water-soluble vitamin that helps break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It may also speed wound healing, especially following surgery. This may be particularly true if vitamin B5 is combined with vitamin C. In addition to playing a role in the breakdown of fats and carbohydrates for energy, Vitamin B5 is critical to the manufacture of red blood cells as well as sex and stress-related hormones produced in the adrenal glands (small glands that sit atop of the kidneys). Vitamin B5 is also important in maintaining a healthy digestive tract and it helps the body use other vitamins (particularly B2 [riboflavin]) more effectively. It is sometimes referred to as the "anti-stress" vitamin because it is believed to enhance the activity of the immune system and improve the body's ability to withstand stressful conditions.

(Taken from Wikipedia.org and umm.edu)

What are the effects if this Nutrient is not present?

Pantothenic acid deficiency is very uncommon, but is more common with age. Symptoms of deficiency are highly similar to other vitamin B deficiencies. They include allergies (e.g. stuffed or runny nose), adrenal insuffiency, Addison's disease, fatigue, insomnia, depression, irritability, vomiting, stomach pains, burning feet, and upper respiratory infections, and rheumatoid arthritis. Some researchers report that blood levels of pantothenic acid are lower in people with rheumatoid arthritis than those without this condition.

(Taken from Wikipedia.org and umm.edu)

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