Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for human health. It plays an important role in energy metabolism, helping your body convert food into energy that your cells can use.
In addition to its role in energy metabolism, vitamin B5 is involved in the production of hormones, including stress hormones like cortisol, and is important for healthy skin, hair, and eyes. It also helps your body produce red blood cells and can aid in wound healing.
Vitamin B5 is found in a variety of foods, including meat, poultry, fish, whole grains, and vegetables like sweet potatoes and broccoli. Deficiency in vitamin B5 is rare, but can lead to symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, and digestive problems. However, most people in developed countries get enough vitamin B5 through their diet.