VITAMIN B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
“The Exerciser’s Friend No.2”. (Exerciser’s Friend No.1 = Vitamin B2). Water soluble. A member of the B-complex family of vitamins. Vitamin B5 also helps to maintain normal growth and a healthy nervous system.

Deficiencies are rare in humans on a normal diet because it is widely distributed in foods. However it is often included in multivitamin preparations.

Over the past 10 years, vitamin B5 has become a popular supplement due to its ability to boost energy levels and improve the immune response (by encouraging the lymphatic system).

Functions/benefits
Assists in the building of body cells, normal skin and the utilization of vitamins.
Encourages healing of wounds.
Encourages the immune system.
Builds resistance to stress.
Reduces the effects of stress on the body.
Prevents fatigue.
Lowers cholesterol levels and protects against heart disease.
Prevents and treats arthritis.
May detoxify alcohol.

Deficiency symptoms
Retarded growth (in children).
Vomiting.
Cramps.
Chronic fatigue.
Hypoglycaemia.
Insomnia.
Lowered resistance to infection.
Abdominal pain.
Skin disorders.

Food sources
Soybeans.
Wheat germ.
Wholegrains.
Green vegetables.
Salmon.
Chicken meat.
Mushrooms.
Egg yolks.
Legumes.
Nuts.

U.S. RDA: 10mg
EU RDA: 6mg
Supplements up to 100 mg is ok. Doses over 300mg should be medically supervised.

Nutrient Destroyers
Caffeine. Alcohol. Sugar.

>> more info on nutrient destroyers

Toxicity
None known. However doses greater than 300mg should be medically supervised.