Pantothenic Acid

Pantothenic acid is a water-soluble vitamin and belongs to the group of B vitamins. Pantothenic acid plays a central role in the energy metabolism. As a component of coenzyme A, it is necessary for the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and various amino acids as well as for the build-up of fatty acids, cholesterol and steroid hormones. With a balanced diet, a deficiency is very rare; a typical deficiency symptom would be the “burning feet syndrome”.

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Where is pantothenic acid found?
How much pantothenic acid do we need?
Too much / too little pantothenic acid

Where is pantothenic acid found?

Pantothenic acid is found in almost all foods - at least in small amounts. Good sources include liver, muscle meat, fish, milk, whole grain products, and legumes such as ripe peas.

How much pantothenic acid do we need?

The exact need is not known. The estimated value for an adequate intake for adults (25 to <51 years) per day according to the DA-CH reference values is 6 mg pantothenic acid. This value also applies to pregnant and breastfeeding women. For more information, see Covering Your Daily Vitamins. You can find out more about all age groups or groups of people as well as gender in the DA-CH reference values.

Too much / too little pantothenic acid

There are no known harmful effects of excessive intake.
A deficiency hardly ever occurs. Very one-sided diets and impaired absorption by the body can promote a deficiency; this usually occurs at the same time as other nutrient deficiencies. The classic symptom of a deficiency is the “burning feet syndrome” (burning sensation in the feet). Non-specific symptoms (e.g. palpitations, tingling of the skin, tiredness and muscle weakness) are also observed. Wound healing disorders, low blood pressure and disturbed movement sequences can also occur.

Note Pantothenic acid is easily leached by water and is sensitive to heat.

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