ABC's of Nutrition: Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

Liver and other organ meats, milk, fish, and poultry are some of the highest concentrations of pantothenic acid. Good plant sources include whole grains, legumes, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, broccoli, strawberries, and oranges. Brewer’s Yeast is one of the highest plant sources. There is no official RDA of pantothenic acid.

Severe pantothenic acid deficiency is characterized by “burning foot syndrome.” Symptoms are numbness or shooting pains in the feet. Fatigue is another sign of pantothenic acid deficiency.

Primary roles of pantothenic acid are to support adrenal function and rheumatoid arthritis. It is also used in the manufacture of coenzyme A (CoA) and acyl carrier protein (ACP). These two compounds play critical roles in the utilization of fats and carbohydrates.

Pantethine, an active form of pantothenic acid, is used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Pantothenic acid works well with carnitine and coenzyem Q10 in fatty-acid transport and utilization.

An interesting fact about pantothenic acid’s name is that it's derived from the Greek word pantos, which means “everywhere.”

by John Connor, CNC