Nutritionally, Pantothenic Acid is important to healthy hair and skin. As a recognized growth stimulant, the vitamin helps the body metabolize protein, which is the major component of hair.
Although taking extra Pantothenic Acid has not been proved to promote faster or more abundant hair growth, a deficiency can lead to fallout as well as premature graying. Studies have shown that hair fallout and graying in rats is caused by a Pantothenic Acid deficiency.
Deficiencies in humans are rare, however, because pantothenic acid is found in so many foods, including yeast, organ meats (liver, kidney, heart, brain), eggs, milk, vegetables, legumes and whole grains.
In fact, the word, “pantothenic,” comes from the Greek word pantos, meaning “everywhere.” People who eat mostly processed foods, are alcoholic, or who take antibiotics, may experience fatigue, one of the most common symptoms of a Pantothenic Acid deficiency.
Other symptoms can include depression, hypoglycemia, vomiting, abdominal cramps, insomnia, muscle cramps, upper respiratory infections, and tingling feet and hands.
As a water-soluble vitamin, Pantothenic Acid can’t be stored in the body. However, it can be made in the body by bacteria found in human intestines. The recommended daily intake of Pantothenic Acid for adults is 4 to 7 milligrams, although high doses (more than 1,000 mg. daily) have not proved to be toxic. In fact, the only side effect reported after consuming 1,500 mg for several weeks was a sensitivity in teeth. That said, it’s never wise to take more than the recommended dosage or to start a supplement regimen without first consulting your doctor.
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