Pantothenic acid, or vitamin B5, is important for protein and fat metabolism, nervous system function, digestive health, and red blood cell production. It may also have benefits for wound healing and rheumatoid arthritis. Deficiency can lead to depression, fatigue, and respiratory infections. It is rare to be deficient, as the vitamin is found in many foods, but those recovering from alcoholism may have trouble absorbing it. Supplementing with B vitamins is recommended to avoid imbalances.
Pantothenic acid is one of a combination of vitamins known as the B complex vitamins, and is also known as B5. Pantothenic acid benefits include proper protein and fat metabolism, proper nervous system function, and maintenance of a healthy digestive system. Vitamin B5 is also important for healthy hair, skin, and eyes. Pantothenic acid is also an important part of the red blood cell manufacturing process. Other benefits of pantothenic acid include cholesterol synthesis, a possible reduction in triglycerides, and an increase in good cholesterol levels.
There is some evidence that there are other benefits of pantothenic acid as well, such as speeding up wound healing. Another study suggested that pantothenic acid might have something to do with rheumatoid arthritis. In the study, the researchers found that people with rheumatoid arthritis had lower levels of vitamin B5 in their blood than healthy people. The study also found that among people with rheumatoid arthritis, those with the most severe symptoms had the lowest levels of pantothenic acid in their blood.
The many benefits of pantothenic acid can make supplementing tempting; However, it is very rare to be deficient in vitamin B5. Pantothenic acid is available in many different foods, including fresh meats, milk, and unprocessed grains. Pantothenic acid is a water-soluble vitamin, which means the body does not store excess, so there is little chance of overdosing on the vitamin. Taking high doses of pantothenic acid can cause diarrhea and temporarily increase the risk of bleeding.
People who do not consume adequate levels of vitamin B5 will not enjoy the benefits of pantothenic acid and may experience signs of deficiency. Symptoms of B5 deficiency include depression, fatigue, irritability, trouble sleeping, and susceptibility to upper respiratory tract infections. People who choose to supplement with pantothenic acid should take the vitamin with water, after eating. Different B vitamins work together, so supplementing with just one can lead to an imbalance in the body. To avoid complications, it makes sense to supplement with B vitamins instead of just pantothenic acid.
People recovering from alcoholism have trouble absorbing pantothenic acid, even when consumed in large amounts. A program known as the Tully Hill protocol recommends supplementing with various amino acids, minerals, and vitamins, including pantothenic acid, to help the recovering alcoholic stop drinking. The medical professionals who endorse this protocol believe that pantothenic acid helps reduce cravings for alcohol and reduces depression that often plagues recovering alcoholics.
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