RDI
Overdosing
Conception, pregnancy and breastfeeding
Food sources
Vitamin B5 is a water-soluble vitamin, also known as 'pantothenic acid'. Pantothenic acid is essential for metabolism of fats, nerve transmitters, steroid hormones and the production of red blood cells. Although very rare, lack of pantothenic acid can lead to fatigue, vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps, insomnia, depression, low blood sugar and a general failure of all body systems. 'Burning feet' syndrome experienced by some soldiers in Asia in World War II was thought to be due to lack of pantothenic acid.
Recommended Daily Intake (RDI)of pantothenic acid is about 5 to 10mg for adults. However, pantothenic acid is widely available in many foods and supplementing is not required.
Overdosing. There is no evidence that you can overdose on pantothenic acid, although only recommended intakes are advisable and supplementing is generally not required because it is readily available through a normal or vegetarian diet.
Conception, pregnancy and breastfeeding.Pantothenic acid plays a role in your baby's growth and development as well as helping to prevent anaemia in the mother (meaning low levels of red blood cells). Supplementing is not required during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as pantothenic acid is generally available through diet alone.
Food sources.Pantothenic acid can be obtained from many different foods. Some main sources are beef, chicken, whole grains, cereals, wheat bran, yeast, potatoes, tomatoes, broccoli, mushrooms, avocados, peanuts and cheese. Pantothenic acid can be readily destroyed by freezing, canning and refining foods.