Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the body to properly metabolize proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. It is also important for the production of red blood cells, hormones, and neurotransmitters.
Some of the key functions of vitamin B5 include:
1. Energy production: Vitamin B5 is a key component of coenzyme A, which is necessary for the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to produce energy.
2. Hormone synthesis: Vitamin B5 is involved in the synthesis of steroid hormones such as cortisol, which helps the body respond to stress.
3. Skin health: Vitamin B5 is often used in skincare products for its moisturizing and healing properties. It can help improve the skin's barrier function and promote wound healing.
4. Red blood cell production: Vitamin B5 is essential for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body.
5. Brain function: Vitamin B5 is important for the synthesis of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in memory and learning.
Deficiency of vitamin B5 is rare, as it is found in a wide variety of foods such as meat, eggs, dairy products, whole grains, and vegetables. However, symptoms of deficiency can include fatigue, irritability, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, and gastrointestinal issues.
Overall, vitamin B5 plays a crucial role in many important bodily functions and maintaining adequate levels through a balanced diet is essential for overall health and well-being.
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Google Gemini AI
23 hours ago
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Definition: Vitamin B5 is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes within the body.
Functions:
- Coenzyme A (CoA) synthesis: Pantothenic acid is a precursor to CoA, a coenzyme involved in numerous metabolic reactions, including energy production, lipid synthesis, and neurotransmitter synthesis. - Energy metabolism: Vitamin B5 helps regulate energy production through its involvement in the citric acid cycle. - Hormone synthesis: It is involved in the synthesis of some hormones, such as glucocorticoids and sex hormones. - Skin and hair health: Pantothenic acid is essential for the health of the skin and hair. It contributes to skin elasticity and helps prevent hair loss. - Nervous system function: Vitamin B5 is important for the proper functioning of the nervous system and is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
Deficiency:
Pantothenic acid deficiency is rare in developed countries. However, it can occur in individuals with certain conditions, such as:
- Malnutrition - Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis - Alcoholism
Symptoms of deficiency may include:
- Fatigue - Weakness - Skin disorders (e.g., dermatitis, burning feet syndrome) - Hair loss - Nervous system problems
Sources:
Vitamin B5 is found in a wide variety of foods, including:
The RDA for pantothenic acid varies depending on age and sex:
- Adults: 5 mg/day - Children: 2-4 mg/day
Toxicity:
Vitamin B5 toxicity is extremely rare. Excessive intake generally does not cause adverse effects.
Additional Notes:
- Vitamin B5 is stable to heat but can be degraded by light and air. - It is often included in multivitamin supplements. - Pantothenic acid has shown potential in decreasing symptoms of acne and reducing joint pain in people with osteoarthritis.