Pantothenic acid aka Vitamin B5 is so widespread in the food we eat, I don’t tend to worry about deficiency. However, when I had my micornutrients tested, I was running on the low average side for pantothenic acid. Generally, B vitamins tend to run low with hypothyroidism so that could be the cause. Additionally, the B vitamins work together so if one is out of balance (high or low), it could cause the other B vitamin to go out of balance.
Pantothenic acid helps produce many hormones in the body including adrenal gland hormones (stress hormones which also support the thyroid). The vitamin is well known for its ability to help in energy production, fat metabolism, brain health, and boosting glutathione (antioxidant status) as well.
Did you know that copper deficiency may also reduce pantothenic acid? Copper deficiency can be common in autoimmune thyroid disease. This doesn’t mean to hurry up and supplement with copper (supplementation is tricky–more on that later). It means we must continue to focus on a nutrient dense and rich diet and focus on absorbing nutrients well. I prefer to take a high quality multivitamin that does contain copper and zinc in the right balance.
Food Sources of Pantothenic Acid
- Shiitake Mushrooms
- Avocado
- Sweet potato
- Lentils
- Peas
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Yogurt
- Broccoli
- Salmon
- Eggs
Remember: deficiency is rare. But, here are common symptoms of vitamin B5 deficiency:
- numb/tingling feet; muscle spasms
- acne
- grinding teeth
- mood irritability, anxiety/depression
*This website is not a substitute for medical advice.
