| Gender | Age | Intake |
|---|---|---|
| 0-6 months | Male | 1.7 mg/day |
| 0-6 months | Female | 1.7 mg/day |
| 7-12 months | Male | 1.8 mg/day |
| 7-12 months | Female | 1.8 mg/day |
| 1-3 years | Male | 2 mg/day |
| 1-3 years | Female | 2 mg/day |
| 4-8 years | Male | 3 mg/day |
| 4-8 years | Female | 3 mg/day |
| 9-13 years | Male | 4 mg/day |
| 9-13 years | Female | 4 mg/day |
| 14 years and older | Male | 5 mg/day |
| 14 years and older | Female | 5 mg/day |
| Pregnant women | Female | 6 mg/day |
| Lactating women | Female | 7 mg/day |
This vitamin, also called pantothenic acid, is contained in animal bodies and plants. In some countries (for example, in books by Russian authors) it is known as Bx or B3, which can cause confusion. It can be found in all living cells.
Vitamin B5 is essential for breaking up proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. It takes part in formation of numerous enzymes and amino-acids. Pantothenic acid regulates functions of the intestine and nervous system.
It is said to be effective for a number of uses, though more scientific evidence is required to find out whether the acid is really efficient in all of them. People take vitamin B3 for treating the following health issues:
Pantothenic acid is also taken for enhancing athletic performance, stimulating adrenal glands, improving immunity, and reducing symptoms of PMS.
Lack of this acid in the human body is very rare and can be a result of malnutrition or diseases of the intestine. It can cause headaches, apathy, joint pains, depression, drowsiness, insomnia, heartburn, nausea, allergies, constipation, hair loss, and other health problems.
Vitamin B5 is safe for adults and children if taken in adequate amounts.
It is easily absorbed from most animal and plant sources.
Pantothenic acid can be dangerous for people suffering from hemophilia.