Pantothenic acid (B5) is sometimes known as the "anti-stress vitamin" due to its ability to assist the adrenal cortex in producing cortisone and other hormones in response to stress. It also helps brain and neuromuscular function by converting the amino acid choline into the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, contributes to the overall health of the nervous system, and improves energy. Normal growth functions of the body are also supported by pantothenic acid, and some research indicates that it is a protective nutrient for the heart, and useful for reducing cholesterol.
Pantothenic acid is widely available in most foods, with Brewer's yeast, organ meats, eggs, brown rice, wholegrain cereals, cheese, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and molasses all being good food sources. The body also converts intestinal flora to pantothenic acid. With the excdeption of people who susbsist on an entirely refined "junk foods" diet, deficiency of pantothenic acid is extremely unlikely.
