Derived from the Greek word pantos, meaning “everywhere”, pantothenic acid or vitamin B5, is abundantly distributed in natural foods and is available in virtually all plant and animal-based foods. Due to its abundance within food, deficiency of the nutrient is rare. Similar to most of the water-based nutrients, storage within the body is limited and is readily excreted through the kidneys and in our urine.
The nutrient is required for the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA) and acetyl-CoA, both of which are involved in more than 100 metabolic pathways including energy production, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and aiding hormone production. It is often commonly referred to as the “anti-stress vitamin” for its involvement in neurotransmitters required to maintain a healthy stress response and adrenal function. Particularly when combined with vitamin C and biotin, pantothenic acid can help support collagen production for healthy hair and skin.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin B5 is 4 mg for women and 6 mg for men.
Food sources of vitamin B5 include avocados, Baker’s yeast, beans, blue vein cheese, egg yolk, green vegetables, lentils, lobsters, milk, mushrooms, oranges, organ meats (liver, brain, kidneys), peanut butter, peas, royal jelly, sweet potatoes, wholegrain cereals.
Key Indications:
Assists in maintaining a healthy stress response.
To promote healthy skin, hair and nails
To aid wound healing and tissue repair
To aid efficient carbohydrate metabolism
To support the production of neurotransmitters for mood stability
