DESCRIPTION

Pantothenic acid, B5, is known as B3 in parts of Europe. Its name comes from the Greek panthos, which means "everywhere." It was first isolated from rice husks in 1939. Pantothenic acid is widely found everywhere – in our body tissues and in plants.

Pantothenic acid is water soluble, so a regular daily intake is vital.

BENEFITS

Pantothenic acid is very important to the process of releasing energy from foods. This is because it is part of coenzyme A which plays a major role in energy release.

Pantothenic acid is used to make and renew our body tissues. It is vital for the production of antibodies (part of our immune system).

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS

Fatigue

Depression

Loss of appetite

Cramps

Indigestion

Insomnia

REQUIREMENTS (RNI)

The COMA report of 1991 does not give specific recommended intakes of pantothenic acid because there is no standard to measure how much is already in the body (factors such as intestinal bacteria, length and usage of antibiotics, and so on, all play a part). However, an average of 3-7 mg daily is thought to be sufficient for most adults.

BEST FOOD SOURCES

WHO MAY NEED TO SUPPLEMENT

Alcoholics

Women on the contraceptive pill

Pregnant women

Smokers

SAFETY

THERAPEUTIC USES

Relieves nausea

Relieves PMS

Treats "burning feet" syndrome

Skin disorders

INTERACTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS

As one of the B-complex vitamins, pantothenic acid works best when taken as part of the complex, although it can be taken on its own as part of nutritional therapy.

It is linked with riboflavin in its function of energy production.