17 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin B5 Deficiency
Vitamin B5 deficiency by itself is pretty rare. It usually occurs in combination with the deficiency of other vitamins. This nutrient deficiency can be found in those suffering from acute malnutrition or severe alcoholism.
To know all about vitamin B5 deficiency, the symptoms, causes, and associated risks, read below!
What is Vitamin B5 Deficiency?
As already mentioned, vitamin B5 deficiency is extremely rare in the developed parts of the world. Also known as pantothenic acid, vitamin B5 is found in almost all foods. Therefore, with a proper diet, everyone gets at least their daily required amount naturally from the foods they eat.
On the other hand, the lack of vitamin B5 in the body compared to the recommended levels is referred to as a vitamin B5 deficiency.
How Common is Vitamin B5 Deficiency?
Vitamin B5 deficiency, or pantothenic acid deficiency, is rare. Vitamin B5 is found in a wide variety of foods, which makes it generally easy to obtain through a regular diet. Common sources include meats, vegetables, cereals, legumes, eggs, and milk. Because of its abundance in many foods, most people get enough vitamin B5 without needing to think about it.
However, certain groups may be at risk of vitamin B5 deficiency. These include people with severe malnutrition, those with specific absorption disorders, such as inflammatory bowel diseases, and individuals who consume highly processed diets lacking in variety.
Who is at Risk of Vitamin B5 Deficiency?
There is only one group of people who are at risk of pantothenic acid or vitamin B5 deficiency.
Such people have a genetic mutation of the pantothenate kinase 2 (PANK2) gene. This genetic mutation results in pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN).
PKAN develops when the pantothenic acid is not fully converted to coenzyme A.
Besides, those people who are malnourished are also at risk of suffering from vitamin B5 deficiency.
What are the Signs & Symptoms of Vitamin B5 Deficiency
Readers should note that vitamin B5 deficiency symptoms are infrequent. However, some of the common symptoms are:
These symptoms of vitamin B5 deficiency in adults are also the same in the case of children.
Reasons that Cause Vitamin B5 Deficiency
Usually, vitamin B5 deficiency is caused by a genetic mutation where pantothenic acid cannot be metabolised. The disorder is known as pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN).
Apart from this, malnourishment also results in vitamin B5 deficiency.
Vitamin B5 Deficiency Diseases
Firstly, vitamin B5 deficiency diseases do not exist.
However, the vitamin is used in the treatment of several conditions, such as:
- Yeast infections
- Wound healing
- Tongue infections
- Salicylate toxicity
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Respiratory disorders
- Premenstrual syndrome
- Parkinson’s disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Obesity
- Neuralgia
- Muscular dystrophy
- Multiple sclerosis
- Low blood sugar
- Low blood pressure
- Leg cramps
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Heart failure
- Headaches
- Enlarged prostate
- Dizziness
- Diabetic nerve pain
- Depression
- Dandruff
- Cystitis
- Convulsions
- Conjunctivitis
- Colitis
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Celiac disease
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Burning feet syndrome
- Baldness
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Alcoholism
- ADHD
- Acne
Adverse Effects of Vitamin B5 Deficiency in the Long Term
As already mentioned, the effects of vitamin B5 deficiency do not directly result in any diseases.
However, you may notice some of those symptoms as stated above. Ingestion of large amounts of vitamin B5 results in diarrhoea.
Diagnosis of Vitamin B5 Deficiency
Diagnosing vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) deficiency typically involves several methods to assess levels in the body and to correlate these with clinical symptoms. Here are the primary methods used for diagnosis
Clinical Assessment
Clinical assessment involves evaluating the patient's medical history and presenting symptoms. Symptoms such as fatigue, neurological issues (numbness, tingling, burning feet), gastrointestinal disturbances, and skin abnormalities can suggest vitamin B5 deficiency. Clinical assessment provides initial clues but is not definitive without biochemical confirmation.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are used to measure levels of pantothenic acid in the blood. However, there is no standardised or widely accepted clinical cutoff for deficiency. Blood samples are collected, and the concentration of pantothenic acid in the serum or plasma is measured using laboratory techniques.
Urinary Pantothenate Excretion Test
This test measures the excretion of pantothenate (a form of vitamin B5) in urine after a loading dose of the vitamin. The patient consumes a high dose of pantothenic acid orally. Urine is then collected over several hours, and the concentration of pantothenate in the urine is measured.
Functional Tests
Functional tests assess specific biochemical pathways dependent on pantothenic acid. For instance, measuring Coenzyme A (CoA) levels in blood or tissues can indirectly indicate vitamin B5 status. These tests involve complex biochemical analyses conducted in specialised laboratories.
Response to Supplementation
In cases where the diagnosis is uncertain but deficiency is suspected based on symptoms, response to vitamin B5 supplementation can be diagnostic. Patients are given therapeutic doses of pantothenic acid orally. Improvement in symptoms (such as fatigue, neurological symptoms, and gastrointestinal issues) after supplementation supports the deficiency diagnosis.
Diseases Caused by Deficiency of Vitamin B5
Vitamin B5 deficiency in the body can exacerbate symptoms like exhaustion, irritability, sleeplessness, and restlessness. The production of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates requires pantothenic acid. Vitamin B5 deficiency in the body can exacerbate symptoms like exhaustion, irritability, sleeplessness, and restlessness.
Best Food Sources to Overcome Vitamin B5 Deficiency
Adding the best food sources packed with vitamin B5 is the best way to beat deficiency. The tables below have many fruits, vegetables and food sources to choose from:
Fruits to Overcome Vitamin B5 Deficiency
Try these juicy fruits to increase your vitamin B5 levels. Pick any from the table below to add to your diet:
Vegetables to Overcome Vitamin B5 Deficiency
The vegetables below are the best examples of vitamin B5 rich vegetables. Check the tables below to choose any vegetable:
Other Eatables to Overcome Vitamin B5 Deficiency
Here are a few more choices other than fruits and vegetables to add to your adequate for adequate vitamin B5 intake:
Treatment of Vitamin B5 Deficiency
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) deficiency treatment involves addressing the underlying cause and replenishing deficient levels through dietary changes and supplementation. Here's a comprehensive approach to treating vitamin B5 deficiency:
How to Prevent & Overcome Vitamin B5 Deficiency?
The best way to overcome vitamin B5 deficiency is to consume a balanced diet.
The table below shows the daily intake amount for vitamin B5.
How Long Does It Take to Correct Vitamin B5 Deficiency?
The time taken to correct vitamin B5 deficiency varies from person to person. In addition, it depends on underlying factors such as health, age, sex, etc. Therefore, consult with a doctor to know more about what suits you the best.
In conclusion, vitamin B5 deficiency is very rare in the developed world. However, those who suffer from this ailment may also be suffering from several other vitamin deficiencies.
FAQs about Vitamin B5 Deficiency
How much vitamin B5 should a person take daily?
The daily recommended dosage of vitamin B5 is 5mg per day for normal adults. However, since pantothenic acid is present in most foods, people usually get their recommended amount of vitamin B5 naturally from their daily diet.
Is it harmful to intake more than 5mg of vitamin B5 per day for adults?
Generally, a higher dose of vitamin B5 is not that harmful. Although, it may cause diseases like diarrhoea if the intake is substantially more than a gram.
Why is deficiency of pantothenic acid or vitamin B5 harmful?
Pantothenic acid is used to synthesise carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. Deficiency of vitamin B5 within the body may increase symptoms such as insomnia, fatigue, restlessness, and irritations.
What is vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)?
Vitamin B5 is a water-soluble vitamin essential for synthesising coenzyme A (CoA) and is involved in various metabolic processes.
What causes vitamin B5 deficiency?
Deficiency is rare but can occur due to poor diet, malabsorption syndromes, chronic alcoholism, and certain medical conditions affecting nutrient absorption.
What are the symptoms of vitamin B5 deficiency?
Symptoms may include fatigue, irritability, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, muscle cramps, and digestive disturbances.
How is vitamin B5 deficiency diagnosed?
Diagnosis often involves blood tests to measure levels of pantothenic acid, although deficiencies are generally diagnosed based on symptoms and dietary history.
Can vitamin B5 deficiency lead to serious health problems?
Yes, severe deficiency can lead to neurological symptoms, adrenal dysfunction, and impaired immune function, though such cases are rare.
What foods are rich in vitamin B5?
Foods high in vitamin B5 include organ meats (liver, kidney), egg yolks, whole grains, legumes, mushrooms, avocados, and dairy products.
Is vitamin B5 supplementation necessary?
No, supplementation is unnecessary for most people with a balanced diet as the vitamin is widely available in foods.
Who is at risk for vitamin B5 deficiency?
Individuals with malabsorption syndromes, those consuming very low-calorie diets, and chronic alcoholics are at higher risk.
How does vitamin B5 affect skin health?
Pantothenic acid is involved in skin health through its role in CoA synthesis, potentially aiding in wound healing and reducing acne symptoms.
Can vitamin B5 deficiency affect hair and nail health?
Yes, deficiency may contribute to hair loss, changes in texture, and brittle nails.
Is vitamin B5 deficiency common in vegetarians and vegans?
Yes, it can be, as some plant-based foods have lower vitamin B5 content compared to animal sources.
What medications can interfere with vitamin B5 absorption?
Certain antibiotics and anticonvulsants may interfere with vitamin B5 absorption or utilisation.
How long does it take to correct a vitamin B5 deficiency?
With adequate dietary intake or supplementation, symptoms of deficiency can improve within a few weeks.
Are there any risks associated with high vitamin B5 intake?
No, vitamin B5 is water-soluble, so excess amounts are usually excreted in urine without causing toxicity.
Can vitamin B5 deficiency be prevented?
Yes, maintaining a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods rich in pantothenic acid can prevent deficiency.
Does cooking affect the vitamin B5 content in foods?
Yes, prolonged cooking or processing can reduce the vitamin B5 content in foods, so consuming some raw or minimally processed foods may help retain its levels.
Is there ongoing research on vitamin B5 and its health benefits?
Yes, research continues on vitamin B5's role in skin health, metabolism, and potential therapeutic uses, but more studies are needed to understand its benefits fully.