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Pantothenic acid, also called vitamin B5, is an antioxidant water-soluble vitamin needed to break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Specifically, it is part of coenzyme-A (CoASH) in the metabolism and transfer of carbon chains. It is contained in whole grain cereals, legumes, eggs, meat, royal jelly and many other foods. Its alcohol analog, a provitamin pantothenic acid is readily synthetized from, is called panthenol and is a common additive in the cosmetic industry.
Pantothenic acid deficiency is very uncommon, but is more common with age. Symptoms of deficiency are highly similar to other vitamin B deficiencies. They include allergies (e.g. stuffed or runny nose), adrenal insuffiency, Addison's disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
Pantothenic acid is an important tool in natural medicine, and replaces cortisone. It is also needed for proper and healthy growth of hair.
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