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Vitamin B5 is formed from b -alanine and pantoic acid. Pantothenate is required for synthesis of coenzyme A, CoA and is a component of the acyl carrier protein domain of fatty acid synthase. Pantothenate is, therefore, required for the metabolism of carbohydrate via the TCA cycle and all fats and proteins.
It is required by all cells in the body and is involved in more than 100 different metabolic functions, including energy metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, the synthesis of lipids, neurotransmitters, steroid hormones, porphyrins, and hemoglobin.
Food Sources of Vitamin B5
Beef, brewer's yeast, eggs, fresh vegetables, kidney, legumes, liver, mushrooms, nuts, pork, royal jelly, saltwater fish, torula yeast, whole rye flour, and whole wheat.
Functions of Vitamin B5
Vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid is a part of the enzyme system which plays a vital role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and in the synthesis of amino acids and fatty acids. It is also essential for the formation of porphyrin, the pigment portion of the haemoglobin molecule of the red blood cells.
This vitamin is involved in all the vital functions of the body. It stimulates the adrenal glands and increases production of cortisone and other adrenal hormones. It is primarily used as an anti-stress factor and protects against most physical and mental stresses and toxins. Pantothenic acid increases vitality, wards off infections, and speeds recovery from ill health. It helps in maintaing the normal growth and development of the central nervous system. This vitamin prevents premature ageing. It also provides protection against any damage caused by excessive radiation.
Dosage
No recommended dosage but 10 - 100 mg is indicated. Generally:
Men - 10 mg
Women - 10 mg
Children - 5.5 mg
What are the deficiency symptoms of vitamin B5?
Deficiency of pantothenic acid is extremely rare due to its widespread distribution in whole grain cereals, legumes and meat. Symptoms of pantothenate deficiency are difficult to assess since they are subtle and resemble those of other B vitamin deficiencies. With Vitamin B5 in short supply symptoms like fatigue, headaches, nausea, muscle weakness and cramps, tingling in the hands, depression, personality changes and cardiac instability have been reported. Biochemical changes include increased insulin sensitivity, lowered blood cholesterol, decreased serum potassium, and failure of adrenocorticotropin to induce eosinopenia.
How to Store the Vitamin B5?
Heat and/or moisture may alter the vitamin. Refrigeration is recommended.
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