Vitamin B5

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid). Feel Refreshed and Energetic

Have you ever felt sluggish and drained even after a full night’s rest? For many people these days, myself included, it can often seem impossible to feel truly refreshed and energized. Between busy schedules, stress, and unhealthy lifestyle habits, it’s no wonder our bodies struggle to perform at their best. But what if I told you there is a simple nutrient that plays a key role in energy production and that boosting your intake could leave you feeling renewed? Vitamin B5, also known as calcium pantothenate, may just be the overlooked vitamin you need to help you feel your energetic best.

What is Vitamin B5?

Vitamin B5, also known as Pantothenic Acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the proper function of the body. It belongs to the family of B-vitamins and plays a critical role in the metabolism of food. It helps to convert food into energy and plays a crucial role in the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, and other essential molecules.

Vitamin B5 is a coenzyme in several metabolic reactions in the body. It is essential for the functioning of the adrenal glands, which produce important hormones such as cortisol, adrenaline, and aldosterone. It also supports the production of red blood cells, which transport oxygen throughout the body. Additionally, vitamin B5 plays a crucial role in the maintenance of healthy skin, hair, and eyes.

Vitamin B5 was first discovered in 1933 by Roger Williams. The vitamin is named after the Greek word “pantou,” which means “everywhere” because it is found in many foods. The nutrient is prevalent in many common foods, such as sunflower seeds, mushrooms, avocados, and sweet potatoes. It is also found in lesser quantities in foods such as meat, dairy, and eggs.

  • Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) can be taken as a supplement and is available in the form of tablets, capsules and softgels. It is commonly found in multivitamins and B-complex vitamins. The recommended daily dose of vitamin B5 is 5 mg for adults age 14 and older and 6 mg for pregnant women.
  • Calcium pantothenate, a salt derived from pantothenic acid, is a stable form of the vitamin often used in dietary supplements.
  • Panthenol is another stable form of vitamin B5 pantothenic acid. When used in cosmetic products, it converts to B5 through oxidation.
  • D-calcium pantothenate, made from pantothenic acid, is a synthetic form of vitamin B5.

The B Vitamin Family

Though many people believe that eating a balance diet is enough, taking a supplement of the B vitamin family is especially important. This family of vitamins is key for optimum health.

The B vitamins, being water-soluble, do not store well in the body, so we need to consume them daily. Excess amounts flush out in urine.

The members of the B vitamin family have important tasks that include:

  • Keeping hair, eyes and skin healthy
  • Proper function of the nervous system
  • Essential liver function
  • Digestive tract activity
  • Creating hormones in the adrenal glands
  • Converting food into energy
  • Keeping energy levels balanced

The B vitamins work in connection with each other. However, each B vitamin is present in different foods, and each one is capable of providing different benefits.

Vitamin B5 Benefits

Vitamin B5, like the other members of the family, has its own special abilities. Though other B vitamins are typically present only in certain food groups, B5 is virtually everywhere and in a wide variety of foods. And that’s good, because it offers some incredible benefits.

Promotes Energy and Stamina

One of the primary functions is to help convert food into energy within the body. This means that it can help to increase your stamina and endurance levels, making it a must-have for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking to improve their overall energy levels.

Supports Healthy Skin

It is also known to support healthy skin and hair growth. It helps to promote the production of collagen, a key protein that keeps skin firm and healthy, and improves skin hydration, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

May Improve Digestion

It helps in the proper digestion of food by producing enzymes that help in breaking down food into smaller pieces. It also contributes to the production of healthy bacteria in the gut, which promotes better digestion, absorption of nutrients, and regulates bowel movements.

May Boost Your Metabolism

Want to give your metabolism a much-needed boost? Look no further than vitamin B5! This essential nutrient is a key player in the body’s energy production process, helping to break down food into usable energy. This means that more vitamin B5 in your diet can equal more pep in your step!

May Keep Your Heart Healthy

Believe it or not, it can work wonders for your heart health. Not only does it help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, but it may also play a role in reducing the risk of heart disease. So, if you’re looking to keep your ticker in top shape, consider adding more vitamin B5 to your diet.

May Aid Hormonal Balance

Pantothenic acid assists in triggering the synthesis of vital hormones. Hormonal balance is essential for vital functions such as digestion, mood regulation, bone health, etc. Without adequate vitamin B5, there could be an imbalanced secretion of hormones, leading to health problems like infertility, acne, mood swings, and so on.

May Help Manage Rheumatoid Arthritis

While vitamin B5 isn’t a cure for rheumatoid arthritis, it can certainly help manage symptoms associated with this condition. Research has shown that vitamin B5 can reduce inflammation in the body, which is one of the primary causes of joint pain and stiffness in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Incorporating more vitamin B5-rich foods into your diet could help alleviate some of the pain and discomfort associated with this condition.

Supports Brain Function

It is also important for cognitive health and brain function. It plays a key role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, which are the chemical messengers that allow your brain cells to communicate with each other. This means that getting enough vitamin B5 can help improve focus, memory, and overall brain performance. Studies have also linked vitamin B5 deficiency to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. By ensuring you get enough vitamin B5, you can potentially reduce your risk of these conditions. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, this vitamin can help to protect against conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other forms of cognitive decline.

May Boost Immune System Function

Studies show that it can play a crucial role in strengthening the immune system. It is known to increase the production of white blood cells, which help to fight infection and disease, and can aid in reducing the duration and severity of common illnesses.

May Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Finally, it may help to reduce stress and anxiety levels in the body. By supporting adrenal gland function and regulating stress hormones like cortisol, it can calm the mind and body, helping to manage stress and reduce anxiety levels naturally.

Vitamin B5 Benefits

Vitamin B5 Side Effects

Diarrhea

Taking high doses of these supplements can produce some unpleasant digestive issues, such as diarrhea and stomach cramps. The recommended daily dose of vitamin B5 is 5mg, and exceeding 500mg per day can cause diarrhea, bloating, and indigestion problems. It is essential to follow the recommended dosage to prevent any adverse effects.

Allergic Reactions

Although rare, some individuals are allergic to vitamin B5, which can trigger allergic reactions like hives, rashes, and breathing difficulties. Any signs of allergic reactions should be addressed by a medical professional as soon as possible. It is also crucial to speak with your doctor if you have any history of allergies before taking vitamin B5 supplements.

Overstimulation

One of the side effects of high vitamin B5 doses is overstimulation, which can cause jitteriness, anxiety, and insomnia, especially if taken later in the day. It’s advisable to take your supplements early in the morning to prevent this side effect.

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia refers to a low blood sugar level, and high doses of vitamin B5 supplements can trigger this condition. It can cause symptoms such as irritability, shakiness, and fatigue. If you have hypoglycemia or diabetes, it’s essential to speak with your doctor before taking vitamin B5 supplements.

Interference with Medical Prescription Drugs

It can interfere with some medical prescription drugs such as antibiotics, blood thinners, and anti-seizure medication. It’s crucial to speak with your doctor before taking any supplements to ensure they don’t interact with your prescription medications.

Can Vitamin B5 Cause Hair Loss?

Vitamin B5, also as pantothenic acid, is one of the essential vitamins that play a vital role in our metabolism by breaking down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins into energy. This nutrient contributes to healthy hair by improving scalp circulation and reducing inflammation. It’s also been to protect against damage caused by UV rays, as well as inhibit the loss of hair color.

While some claim that taking high doses of vitamin B5 can lead to hair loss, there is no scientific evidence supporting this claim. In fact, studies show that taking adequate levels of vitamin B5 have helped in reducing hair loss.

Studies conducted on animals show that a vitamin B5 deficiency can cause a decrease in hair growth, as well as thinning of the hair. In humans, individuals who have lower levels of vitamin B5 may experience hair-related problems, such as dry and brittle hair, but it’s not been found to cause hair loss.

Can Vitamin b5 Make Acne Worse?

Some research suggests that vitamin B5 may not be entirely effective in reducing acne or its severity. According to one study, after one month of consuming high doses of vitamin B5, the number of acne lesions increased by 40 percent in some participants. Further, another study revealed that vitamin B5 supplements can interfere with the absorption of other vitamins, such as vitamin B12 and vitamin A, both of which are essential for healthy skin.

Why Take Vitamin B5?

Other than the benefits listed above, individuals take supplements for a variety of reasons. The list is long, and scientific trials have not been conducted to confirm that vitamin B5 is effective for all of those additional benefits. B5 may also be good for treating acne, allergies, baldness, asthma, ADHD, autism, burning feet syndrome, celiac disease, colitis, dandruff, diabetic nerve pain, gray hair, immune system enhancement, athletic performance, insomnia, low blood pressure, leg cramps and general nerve pain.

It is also taken for conditions including osteoarthritis, Parkinson’s disease, PMS, anxiety, signs of aging, skin disorders, constipation and wound healing. Dexpanthenol, a synthetic form of vitamin B5, can be applying topically to relieve skin irritations. It’s also by IV for post-surgical issues and used in spray form for nasal conditions.

Vitamin B5 Dosage

  • The U.S. recommended dietary allowance for adults taking supplements of calcium pantothenate ranges from 5 to 6 mg daily — for pregnant women the suggested dose is 6 mg daily and for breastfeeding mothers 7 mg daily
  • Clinical studies have used pantothenic acid 600 to 1,200 mg/day for the treatment of high cholesterol
  • Dosage may vary depending on the medical condition and desired effects
  • Calcium pantothenate should be taken with water after eating

Where to Buy Vitamin B5

Are you looking to boost your dietary needs with Vitamin B5? Look no further than BulkSupplements.com! They’re not just another supplement company – they’re industry leaders committed to providing you with pure, high-quality dietary supplements. Their products are developed in-house, and they even supply top-notch ingredients to other food and supplement brands. Rest assured, all their products are manufactured and tested with the utmost care, following the highest standards. Don’t wait any longer – reach out to BulkSupplements.com today and place your order for Vitamin B5!

BUY VITAMIN B5 (PANTOTHENIC ACID) CAPSULES HERE

VITAMIN B5 (PANTOTHENIC ACID) POWDER HERE

The Bottom Line

Overall, vitamin B5 is an incredibly important nutrient that can offer a range of powerful benefits for people of all ages. From improving digestive health to boosting energy levels and reducing stress, there’s no shortage of reasons to make this nutrient a regular part of your diet.

In conclusion, vitamin B5 is a natural and essential supplement for anyone aiming to improve their health and boost their energy levels. However, it’s essential to take note of the potential side effects to take it safely. Always start at the recommended daily dose and work your way up gradually if necessary. Your overall health and wellbeing are crucial, and consulting your physician before starting any supplement routine is always advisable. Stay safe, stay healthy.

These statements have not been through an evaluation by the Food and Drug Administration. These products and statements are not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Author: Ryan Quigley
Graduate of Longwood University in Virginia. Part-time sports journalist covering the Vegas Golden Knights.