Vitamin B5, also called pantothenic acid, is important for the body because it participates in activities such as the production of cholesterol, hormones and red blood cells, which are the cells that carry oxygen in the blood. See here all its functions.
This vitamin can be found in foods such as fresh meats, cauliflower, broccoli, whole grains, eggs and milk, and its deficiency can trigger symptoms such as:
- Insomnia;
- Feeling of burning in the feet;
- Fatigue;
- Neurological diseases;
- Leg cramps;
- Low antibody production;
- Nausea and vomiting;
- Abdominal pains and cramps;
- Increased respiratory infections.
However, as this vitamin is easily found in several foods, its deficiency is rare and usually occurs in at-risk groups such as overuse of alcoholic beverages, elderly, intestinal problems such as Crohn's disease and women taking birth control pills.
Excess Vitamin B5
Excess vitamin B5 is rare because it is easily eliminated by urine, occurring only in people who use vitamin supplements, and symptoms such as diarrhea and increased risk of bleeding may appear.
In addition, it is important to remember that the use of vitamin B5 supplements can interact and reduce the effect of antibiotics and medications to treat Alzheimer's and should be recommended by the doctor or nutritionist.
See the list of foods rich in vitamin B5.
