| The most important
function of pantothenic acid is as an essential component in the production of
coenzyme A, a vital catalyst that is required for the conversion of
carbohydrates, fats, and protein into energy. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is
also referred to as an anti-stress vitamin due to its vital role in
the formation of various adrenal hormones, steroids, and cortisone, as well
as contributing to the production of important brain neuro-transmitters
such as acetylcholine.
Vitamin B-5
In addition to helping to fight depression , vitamin B5 also supports
the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and is required for
the production of cholesterol, bile, vitamin D, red blood cells, and
antibodies. Pantothenic acid also helps with prevention
and treatment of anemia as it helps with the formation of red blood cells in the
human body.
Pantothenic acid is also needed to make cholesterol, bile, some fats, red
blood cells, hormones and nerve regulators. Pantothenic acid is necessary to
make Vitamin D. It works closely with biotin, vitamin B1, B2, B6, and niacin.
Our bodies convert pantothenic acid to coenzyme A, which is used in a variety of
biological processes involving the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and
proteins, and the synthesis of hormones, bile, and hemoglobin. It is also needed
for the production of sphingosine and acetylcholine, two very important
substances involved in nerve transmission.
Deficiencies:
Pantothenic acid deficiency has been induced in animals when fed natural
feedstuffs containing low levels of pantothenic acid. Deficient animals had
growth retardation with reduced food intake, functional impairments in all
systems and sudden death. Pantothenic acid deficiency has also been induced in
humans by use of a metabolic antagonist, w-methyl pantothenic acid along with a
pantothenic acid-deficient diet. Signs and symptoms reported include depression,
personality changes, cardiac instability, frequent infection, fatigue, abdominal
pains, sleep disturbances and neurological disorders including numbness,
paresthesia, muscle weakness and cramps. Biochemical changes include increased
insulin sensitivity, and lowered blood cholesterol. |
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