Natural Resources of Pantothenic Acid / Vitamin B5

Vitamin B5, btter known as pantothenic acid, is present in all living cells. It is manufactured by intestinal bacteria and is found in food. This antioxidant works in conjunction with the other B vitamins.

Natural Food Sources
Avocado, banana, blue cheese, broccoli, chicken, collard greens, egg yolk, green leafy vegetable, kidney, lentils, liver, lobster, meat, milk, orange, peanuts, peas, soybeans, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, whole grains

Main Functions
Pantothenic acid helps metabolize nutrients, manufacture antibodies and produce vitamin D. It also stimulates the healing of wounds. Supplements are sometimes used to treat symptoms of allergy and a wide range of skin conditions.

Deficiency Symptoms
It is rare to have a lack in pantothenic acid alone, but a deficiency in one B vitamin usually signals a lack in other B vitamins. Symptoms may include ulcers, muscle cramps, depression, dermatitis, insomnia, rapid pulse and tingling feet.

Toxicity Symptoms
Very large doses may cause diarrhea.

Dietary Reference Intake
5 mg