Vitamin B5 - Pantothenic Acid
What Is It?
A water soluble vitamin sometimes know as the 'anti-stress vitamin' can lose significant amounts through cooking, and by processing. The name pantothenic comes from the greek word 'pantos' which means ‘everywhere’ it is found in virtually all types of food. It is an essential element of coenzyne A, a vital body chemical involved in many necessary metabolic functions.
This vitamin is also destroyed by alcohol, stress, tea and coffee.
Why Do We Need It?
Involved in energy production, metabolism of food, formation of hormones, it controls fat metabolism, the production of adrenalin and helps maintain normal blood sugar level in people with diabetes. Essential for brain and nerves, used to treat Rheumatoid arthritis and allergies. Helps make anti-stress hormones. Maintains healthy skin, nails and hair.
Deficiency Symptoms
Vitamin C is necessary to prevent B5 deficiency. Deficiency symptoms include:- burning feet or tender heels, digestive problems, fatigue, listlessness, stress, irritability or depression, low blood sugar levels, constipation, ulcers, arthritis and allergies, muscle tremors or cramps, apathy, poor concentration, nausea or vomiting, exhaustion after light exercise, anxiety or tension, teeth grinding.
Where Can We Find It?
Natural sources include alfalfa sprouts, apple, avocado, blackcurrants, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, chestnuts, green beans, gooseberries, grapefruit, guava, lentils, mushrooms, orange, parsnip, peas, pomegranate, pumpkin, raspberries, sunflower seeds, tomato, spinach, spirulina, squash, strawberries, sunflower seeds, sweet potato, swiss chard, watercress and watermelon.
Be Aware...
Oral contraceptives containing oestrogen and progestin may increase the requirement for pantothenic acid. Use of pantethene in combination with statins or nicotinic acid may produce additive effects on blood lipids. (Linus Pauling Institute Recommendation)
Studies/Research
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), who provide scientific advice to assist policy makers, has confirmed that clear health benefits have been established for the dietary in-take of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) in contributing to: energy production, metabolism; mental performance; producing hormones and reducing fatigue.
Please Note
Vitamins are an essential part of maintaining a fully functional, healthy body - they assist in the growth and development of the body. In combination with all the other essential nutrients they play a part in many roles including metabolism, immunity and digestion. The best and natural way to meet your vitamin needs is to eat a balanced diet containing a variety of raw fruits and vegetables. If you can't meet your needs through food alone, then, and only then you may require dietary supplements. If you feel you need help via alternative methods you must seek guidance from your doctor, nutritionist or natural juice therapist before taking supplements.
References
Readers Digest Guide to Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements
The Healing Nutrients Within - Eric R. Braverman
Vitamins and Minerals Demystified - Dr Steve Blake
Nutritional Healing - Phyllis A. Balch, CNC
www.nutri-facts.org
Disclaimer
Please be aware that we are not Doctors, so it is important BEFORE making any changes that you consult with your GP or Medical Practitioner. The suggestions above are not meant as an alternative to any current medical treatment so please DO NOT stop taking any medications you are on. They are also not an endorsement of their effectiveness, nor a recommendation that they should be followed but instead, provided for informational purposes. None of the information on the Natural Juice Therapy site is intended or implied to treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease.