| Pantothenic
Acid (Vitamin B-5) |
Symmetry
Products with Pantothenic
Acid (Vitamin B-5): NutraPack,
Fruit-a-Mins, Tranquility, Premium
Plus, Ultra Vitality, Night Lite,
Future Star, Extreme Fuel
Pantothenic
Acid (Vitamin B-5)
Pantothenic
acid is central in the metabolism
of food. Pantothenic acid, also
known as vitamin B-5 is required
for the conversion of carbohydrates,
fats, and protein into usable
energy for the body. It is necessary
for the synthesis of red blood
cells, steroid metabolism, and
is vital in the synthesis of fatty
acids, cholesterol, and other
biological compounds.
Pantothenic
acid is often referred to as an
anti-stress vitamin due to its
essential role in the formation
of various adrenal hormones. These
hormones allow you to adapt to
and respond effectively to various
types of stress.
Pantothenic
acid is important to the nervous
system as well as contributing
to the production of important
neurotransmitters in the brain,
such as acetylcholine. Pantothenic
acid also supports the normal
functioning of the gastrointestinal
tract and for maintaining a healthy
immune system, including stimulation
of antibody production.
Pantothenic
acid is wide spread in foods making
deficiency very rare except for
those with a highly processed
diet as much of the vitamin B-5
activity is lost during the refinement
process. Additionally, pantothenic
acid is produced by beneficial
bacterial in the gut. A reduction
or destruction of intestinal flora,
most commonly by antibiotic use,
can contribute to vitamin B-5
deficiency.
There
are claims that pantothenic acid
can prevent graying and even restore
hair to its natural color, but
this is based on animal research
that showed increased graying
of the fur, decreased growth,
progressing to hemorrhage and
destruction of the adrenal glands.
In
humans, pantothenic acid deficiency
results in diminished adrenal
gland function. A variety of metabolic
problems will also manifest themselves.
Fatigue is common along with depression,
and problems associated with the
digestive system. There will also
be loss of nerve function, and
problems with blood sugar metabolism,
with hypoglycemia being the most
common.
Pantothenic
acid deficiency can reduce immune
system responses, increasing the
risk of infection. Other symptoms
of B-5 deficiency include skin
problems, insomnia, lack of coordination,
muscle cramps and worsening of
allergy symptoms.
The
statements on this web page have
not been evaluated by the Food
and Drug Administration. Symmetry
products are not meant to diagnose,
treat, cure or prevent any disease.
In all matters related to your
health please contact a qualified,
licensed health practitioner. |