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Pantothenic Acid
Recommended Daily Allowance
| America |
Australia |
UK |
| 4-7 mg |
n/a |
n/a |
Uses and Facts
Pantothenic acid, which is also known as vitamin
B5, takes its name from the Greek word 'panto' meaning 'everywhere' as
it is found in a wide range of foods. It can also be made by intestinal
bacteria.
METABOLISM
Pantothenic acid is essential for the release
of energy from food. It is used in the manufacture of a compound called
coenzyme A which plays a vital role in the breakdown of fats and carbohydrates.
BRAIN AND NERVOUS SYSTEM
Pantothenic acid is necessary for the production
of some neuro-
transmitters such as acetylcholine and
is essential for normal nervous system function.
IMMUNE SYSTEM
Antibody synthesis requires pantothenic acid
and it is also involved in wound healing.
ADRENAL GLANDS
Normal adrenal gland function requires pantothenic
acid as it is essential for production of adrenal hormones such as cortisone.
These hormones play an essential part in the body’s reaction to stress.
RED BLOOD CELLS
The formation of healthy red blood cells requires
pantothenic acid as it is involved in the production of compounds needed
to make hemoglobin.
Absorption
Pantothenic acid is absorbed from the intestine
and excesses are excreted in the urine. The body has a limited ability
to store pantothenic acid.
Deficiency
A deficiency of pantothenic acid has not been
found in human beings but has been induced under experimental conditions.
It causes the adrenal glands to shrink with symptoms of fatigue, headache,
sleep disturbances, personality changes, nausea and abdominal distress.
Other symptoms of deficiency include numbness and tingling of the hands
and feet, muscle cramps, impaired coordination, immune problems, dermatitis
and itching.
Sources
Good natural sources of pantothenic acid include
yeast, liver, eggs, wheatgerm, bran, peanuts, peas, meat, milk, poultry,
whole grains, broccoli, mushrooms and sweet potatoes. Most vegetables and
fruits contain small amounts. Heat, food processing techniques and canning
destroy pantothenic acid.
Supplements
Pantothenic acid is usually present in oral
supplements as calcium pantothenate. Pantethine is the most stable active
form of pantothenic acid.
Interactions
Pantothenic acid works with carnitine and
coenzyme Q10. Sulfa drugs, sleeping pills, estrogen and alcohol may raise
pantothenic acid requirements.
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