Pantothenic acid, or vitamin B5 is essential to life and is necessary for our bodies to metabolize proteins, fats and carbohydrates. The production of coenzyme-A is dependent upon the presence of pantothenic acid. It is found in most of the foods we eat. High concentrations are found in whole grain products, meat, eggs and legumes.

Deficiency

Pantothenic acid deficiencies are rare due to the fact that it is found in almost all foods. Deficiencies have been seen in starvation victims and people who have volunteered in limited studies. Symptoms of a deficiency in pantothenic acid include lethargy, allergies, abdominal pain and nausea. Victims of the deficiency also complained of shooting pains in the feet. All of the symptoms were reversible when pantothenic acid was reintroduced in their diets.

Toxicity

It is very unlikely that an overdose of pantothenic acid could occur, as it is water-soluble. Diarrhea, stomach cramping and excess gas have been reported by people taking large doses (10 grams per day) of pantothenic acid. In rare instances, hair loss has been experienced by people taking high doses of pantothenic acid. The symptoms usually subside as the person’s body adjusts to large doses. It is advisable to start with lower doses and work up to 10 grams. Also, people report that the negative side effects seem to be lessened when pantothenic acid is taken with food.

Medical Benefits

In 1995, Dr. Lit-Hung Leung conducted a study on the use of large doses of pantothenic acid (10 to 20 grams per day) to control acne. In this study, it was found that pantothenic acid was effective in controlling acne. In addition it was found to lessen the size of pores, giving a smoother look to the skin. Improvement was noted in as early as a week after starting treatment. Although no other studies have been done to date, many individuals do report an improvement in their skin with the use of pantothenic acid.

In Conclusion

Pantothenic acid, or vitamin B5, is a substance that is necessary to life. Deficiencies in pantothenic acid are rare, due to its availability in the food we consume. Some people believe that high doses of pantothenic acid may greatly improve acne and a study done in 1995, supported that theory.