Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Overview
Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA). CoA is required for numerous metabolic processes including β-oxidation of fatty acids and TCA cycle acetyl-CoA flux, both of which are critical for ATP production. CoA is also essential for pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) function, linking glycolysis to the TCA cycle. Pantothenic acid deficiency impairs fatty acid oxidation and ATP production, potentially affecting brain energy levels and overall metabolic function.
Recipes
8 recipes containing this substance
Black Bean & Sweet Potato Vegetable Chilli
A fibre-rich bean and vegetable chilli with warming spices and slow carbohydrates for steady energy and satiety.
Creamed Corn on Roasted Sweet Potato
Roasted sweet potato with creamed corn and a mixed lipid phase to enhance carotenoid absorption; served with broccoli for fibre and glucosinolates.
Ginger Yogurt and Blueberries
A polyphenol-rich breakfast bowl with high fibre, combining ginger, omega-3 nuts, blueberry polyphenols, and probiotic yogurt.
Matcha Mitochondria Smoothie
Mitochondrial energising smoothie rich in polyphenols, magnesium, and antioxidants
Salmon & Grated Beetroot Toast (with Lemon)
A fast, brain-forward open sandwich combining omega-3 rich salmon, nitrate/polyphenol beetroot, and lemon acidity for a sharp, savoury bite.
Salmon Bowl-pistachio-cacao-nibs
A Mediterranean-style bowl combining salmon, avocado, pistachios, cacao nibs, and early harvest olive oil — rich in omega-3 fats, polyphenols, and fibre.
Savoury Greens & Egg Breakfast Skillet
A warm savoury breakfast skillet with eggs, greens, and slow carbohydrates for steady morning energy.
Turmeric Milk
A warming drink combining turmeric (curcumin) with milk/fat for enhanced curcumin absorption
Foods
5 foods containing this substance
Broccoli
Cruciferous vegetable rich in sulforaphane, folate, and glutathione precursors
Eggs
Complete protein with choline, B vitamins, and phospholipids
Milk
Complete protein, nicotinamide riboside, and calcium
Salmon
Oily fish rich in EPA/DHA, protein, and B vitamins
Yogurt
Fermented dairy providing probiotics and complete protein
Biological Mechanisms and Implications
| Biological Target | Therapeutic Areas | Mechanism of Action |
|---|---|---|
| Metabolic & Neuroendocrine Stress (HPA Axis & ANS) | Supports stress response through energy metabolism and ATP production | |
| Mitochondrial Function & Bioenergetics | Forms CoA (coenzyme A), required for β-oxidation and TCA cycle acetyl-CoA flux; deficiency impairs ATP production impacting brain energy |
References
- Pantothenic acid (B5) is essential for CoA and PDH function, which are necessary for TCA cycle energy generation; deficiency impairs fatty acid oxidation and ATP production, potentially affecting brain energy levels
- CoA is essential for pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) function, linking glycolysis to the TCA cycle; deficiency impairs ATP generation, directly impacting brain energy metabolism