Pantothenic acid (or vitamin B5), is a water-soluble vitamin belonging to group B, essential for the proper functioning of the human body. Like all vitamins that belong to the B Complex, this one is also involved in essential activities.
In fact, it contributes to normal energy metabolism, favoring the transformation of what we eat into energy; and, in addition, it helps the functioning of the nervous system and the immune system.
Like other water-soluble vitamins, it must be taken through a healthy and balanced diet, because the human body cannot synthesize it.
Fortunately, this vitamin is very easy to supplement, since it is widely present in almost all foods, such as: fish, crustaceans, animal entrails (liver and kidneys), dairy products, eggs, legumes, mushrooms and many other green vegetables.
Pantothenic acid in tablets: what is it for?
This vitamin, as a precursor of coenzyme A, plays a fundamental role in several essential metabolic reactions, including that of producing energy from the main nutrients (proteins, carbohydrates and fats).
In addition, it is essential for the synthesis of fatty acids, vitamin A and vitamin D, steroid hormones and some neurotransmitters.
Its intake is particularly indicated for:
● Protection of hair and skinThe reduction of stress, tiredness and fatigue;
● Maintaining normal mental performance;
● The production of hemoglobin;
● The healing of wounds and burns;
● Cholesterol regulation;
● Prevention of skin aging and wrinkle formation;
D-panthenonate acid, in fact, protects cells from damage resulting from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, increasing levels of Glutathione, which is among the most powerful antioxidants because it protects and strengthens the skin microcirculation.
Pantothenic acid: where do we find it?
For adults, according to the nutrient reference values (NRV), the daily dose of this vitamin corresponds to about 4-7 mg, which is an amount sufficient to maintain a good state of general health.
The best way to introduce this vitamin into the body is to follow a varied diet. A correct and balanced diet, in fact, contains enough pantothenic acid to guarantee the necessary daily needs.
There are many foods, both of vegetable and animal origin, in which this substance is widely present, moreover pantos, in Greek, means “everywhere”.
Among them, the following are particularly rich:
● Legumes (especially broad beans, peas and lentils);
● Offal (especially the liver);
● Brewer’s yeast;
● Egg yolk;
● Vegetables and fruits (such as mushrooms, avocados, potatoes and broccoli);
● Beef and poultry;
● Fish;
● Whole grains (such as wheat, rice and oats)
● Peanuts and cashews;
● sunflower seeds;
● Milk and yogurt.
The action of the bacterial flora of the intestine also favors the production of this substance; However, the weight of its contribution to the total amount of panthenol absorbed by the body is still unclear.
When you need to take Pantothenic Acid in tablets
One of the main characteristics of this vitamin is that it is ubiquitous. That is to say that its deficiency is a very rare physiological condition, because a regular diet is sufficient enough to guarantee an adequate intake.
Symptoms of a severe deficiency of this vitamin are:
● Generalized physical and mental exhaustion;
● Headache;
● Irritability;
● Sleep disorders;
● Restlessness;
● Stomach pain;
● Tingling, numbness and pain especially in the lower limbs.
Despite being a very rare condition, deficiency of this vitamin can occur due to some clinical conditions, such as: severe states of malnutrition, alcohol and drug abuse, chronic intestinal inflammation and cigarette smoking.
All circumstances that greatly compromise the intestinal absorption of pantothenic acid, making supplementation necessary.
Use of Pantothenic Acid as a supplement
Vitamins contribute greatly to the well-being of the body and to the improvement of mental performance. This is why it is very important to take them through food or with a multivitamin food supplement that can effectively compensate for any deficiencies.
Vitamin supplements are usually found in the form of:
1. Dust;
2. Ampoules;
3. Effervescent or swallowable tablets
4. Capsules in gelatin or vegetable cellulose (suitable for vegans and vegetarians).
There are many products for stress, concentration and attention. Panthenol is also available in different supplements, which contain this substance in isolated form or combined with other vitamins and minerals, such as Supradyn mental recharge, a supplement produced by Bayer, marketed in packs of 10 effervescent tablets. Its specific formula contains pantothenic acid combined with other B vitamins (such as riboflavin, pyridoxine, cyanocobalamin, niacin, biotin and folic acid), vitamin C, magnesium, zinc, caffeine and guarana . All useful substances to support mental performance, to increase attention and concentration and reduce the sense of. Given the presence of caffeine, however, the intake should be avoided in case of pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
The blog covers a wide range of topics related to health and wellness, with articles organized into several categories.