Function    

Pantothenic acid is involved in a number of biological reactions, including the production of energy, the catabolism of fatty acids and amino acids, the synthesis of fatty acids, lipids, cholesterol and steroid hormones, and the production of both Coenzyme A, and the cellular antioxidant glutathione. It is known that blood levels of pantothenic acid are significantly reduced in rheumatoid arthritis patients. A clinical trial tested 50 mg daily of injected calcium pantothenate. Blood levels rose to normal, and significant symptomatic relief was felt by many of the test subjects. When the pantothenate was withdrawn, symptoms returned. The best results were achieved in a subgroup of vegetarians. The results of this, and other studies involving wound-healing, exercise performance, and the treatment of Hepatitis A, suggest that we are all advised to keep our levels of Vitamin B5 from declining.

The RDA for men is 10 mg and women is 8 mg.

IMPORTANCE:

• Participates in the release of energy from carbohydrates, fats & protein
• aids in the utilization of vitamins
• improves the body's resistance to stress
• helps in cell building & the development of the central nervous system
• helps the adrenal glands
• fights infections by building antibodies

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:

• painful & burning feet
• skin abnormalities
• retarded growth
• dizzy spells
• digestive disturbances
• vomiting
• restlessness
• stomach stress
• muscle cramps