What is vitamin B5?
Vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid or vitamin W, is part of the so-called water soluble vitamins. They are not stored in the body and must be taken regularly through foods or supplements.
Vitamin B5 is sensitive to heat and tends to disperse when temperatures are raised.
What is the role of vitamin B5?
Vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid plays a vital role in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates and is involved in the synthesis of cholesterol and hormone levels. Vitamin B5 is especially recommended for protecting hair and skin, preventing tiredness and healing wounds and burns.
Which foods are rich in vitamin B5?
Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, is present in almost all plant and animal foods (pantos, Greek word for everywhere) in quantities more or less abundant. Vitamin B5 is mostly found in legumes, egg yolks, dried mushrooms, yeast, cattle, and sheep and in the liver of pigs.
What is the daily requirement of vitamin B5?
The daily requirement of Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, is about 7.4 mg, sufficient enough for an individual to maintain a good general state of health.
Deficiency of vitamin B5
Lack of Vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid is a condition which rarely occurs, only reported in individuals with cases of severe malnutrition or those who abuse alcohol and drugs.
Vitamin B5 deficiency can be seen through symptoms such as fatigue (both physical and mental), tingling and pain.
Excessive Vitamin B5 intake
There are no side effects caused by excessive vitamin B5 or pantothenic intake. Excessive doses can be expelled from the body through urination.
