Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)

Introduction to Vitamin B5

Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the proper functioning of the human body. It is a member of the B-complex family of vitamins, which are important for maintaining good health. Vitamin B5 is involved in a variety of metabolic processes in the body, including the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, and amino acids. It is also important for the production of energy and the maintenance of healthy skin, hair, and nails.

Functions and Benefits of Vitamin B5

Vitamin B5 plays a crucial role in many bodily functions. It is involved in the production of coenzyme A, which is necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It also helps to synthesize cholesterol, which is important for the production of hormones and the maintenance of healthy cell membranes. Vitamin B5 is also involved in the production of hemoglobin, which is necessary for the transport of oxygen in the blood.

In addition to its metabolic functions, vitamin B5 has a number of other benefits. It is important for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails, and can help to prevent acne and other skin conditions. It also helps to reduce stress and anxiety, and can improve mood and cognitive function. Vitamin B5 has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Food Sources of Vitamin B5

Vitamin B5 is found in a variety of foods, including meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, whole grains, and legumes. Some of the best sources of vitamin B5 include liver, kidney, salmon, tuna, chicken, turkey, eggs, milk, yogurt, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and lentils. Vegetarians and vegans may need to supplement their diets with vitamin B5, as it is not found in many plant-based foods.

Food	Vitamin B5 (mg)	% Daily Value
Chicken liver, pan-fried (3 oz)	8.3	166%
Sunflower seeds, roasted (1/4 cup)	2.0	40%
Avocado (1 medium)	1.7	34%
Salmon, sockeye, cooked (3 oz)	1.6	32%
Shiitake mushrooms, cooked (1 cup)	1.6	32%
Sweet potato, baked (1 medium)	1.2	24%
Lentils, cooked (1 cup)	1.2	24%
Broccoli, boiled (1 cup)	1.1	22%
Corn, yellow, cooked (1 cup)	1.1	22%
Yogurt, plain, low-fat (1 cup)	1.0	20%
Egg, hard-boiled (1 large)	0.7	14%
Milk, whole (1 cup)	0.6	12%
Tuna, yellowfin, cooked (3 oz)	0.6	12%
Chicken breast, cooked (3 oz)	0.5	10%
Brown rice, cooked (1 cup)	0.5	10%

Note: Percentages are based on the recommended daily value of vitamin B5 for adults, which is 5 mg. Please note that percentages may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors.

Deficiency and Toxicity of Vitamin B5

Vitamin B5 deficiency is rare, as the vitamin is found in many common foods. However, severe deficiency can lead to a condition known as pantothenic acid deficiency syndrome, which can cause fatigue, insomnia, depression, irritability, and gastrointestinal problems. There is no known toxicity associated with vitamin B5, as excess amounts are excreted in the urine.

Recommended Daily Intake of Vitamin B5

The recommended daily intake of vitamin B5 varies depending on age and gender. The National Institutes of Health recommends the following daily intake levels:

• Infants (0-6 months): 1.7 mg
• Infants (7-12 months): 1.8 mg
• Children (1-3 years): 2 mg
• Children (4-8 years): 3 mg
• Children (9-13 years): 4 mg
• Adolescents (14-18 years): 5 mg
• Adults (19 years and older): 5 mg

Pregnant and breastfeeding women may need higher amounts of vitamin B5 to support the growth and development of their babies.

Conclusion: Importance of Vitamin B5 in Health

Vitamin B5 is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions. It is involved in the production of energy, the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and the maintenance of healthy skin, hair, and nails. Vitamin B5 is found in many common foods, but vegetarians and vegans may need to supplement their diets to ensure adequate intake. While deficiency is rare, it can lead to a variety of health problems. Overall, vitamin B5 is an important nutrient that should be included as part of a healthy diet.