Vitamin B5 is a member of Vitamin B-complex group and water soluble. It is also known as Panthothenic Acid. As it is water-soluble vitamin, excess portion of vitamin B5 is excreted through urine, so a constant supply of Vitamin B5 is required for replenishing the same.

Role of Vitamin B5:

Vitamin B5 is highly essential element for smooth body functioning. In animals, it is found in all living tissues, in the form of Coenzyme A.  It helps in metabolize proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. It also helps in maintaining the communication between brain and central nervous system.

Sources Of Vitamin B5:

In most of the food Vitamin B5 is found in form coenzyme A (CoA). In the intestine, it is synthesized by enzymes and bacteria in the form of Panthothenic Acid. Foods like wheat, meat, eggs, peanuts and soya-bean are rich in Vitamin B5. Cold-water fish ovaries, and royal jelly are a rich source of Vitamin B5. Poultry products are also excellent source of Vitamin B5. Small amounts of Vitamin B5 is also available in vegetables.

 

Doses of Vitamin B5:

For children, 2-4 mg dose per day is sufficient. For adult men and women 6mg and for pregnant women/breast feeding women 7-8 mg doses are prescribed. Though Vitamin B5 is soluble in water, but extra doses should be avoided.

Deficiency Of Vitamin B5:

It is extremely rare for people to have a deficiency of Vitamin B5. In some cases, it is found in the people consuming large intake of alcohol. The most common symptom of Vitamin B5 deficiency is fatigue due to impaired energy generation. Other symptoms are restlessness, sleep disturbance and vomiting. Nearly all these symptoms can be restored with the intake of pantothenic acid. In Studies, it has been found that lack of Vitamin B5 cause hair loss and acne problems.