Vitamin B5 (Calcium Pantothenate)

Vitamin B5 Claims

  • maintain / support energy levels
  • maintain / support energy production
  • supports healthy stress response in the body
  • maintain / support energy levels
  • Maintains and supports energy 

  • Vitamin B5 plays a pivotal role in maintaining and supporting energy production, as well as fostering a healthy stress response in the body, particularly during the critical stages of preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum. Its involvement in various metabolic pathways contributes significantly to the well-being of both the mother and the developing baby.

    One of the primary functions of Vitamin B5 is its role in the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA), a molecule that is fundamental in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. CoA is an essential cofactor in numerous enzymatic reactions that facilitate the breakdown of nutrients for energy production. As the energy demands increase during preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum, the availability of Vitamin B5 becomes crucial to ensure efficient metabolism and energy production.

    Vitamin B5 Supports a Healthy Stress Response 

    Vitamin B5 plays an important role in adrenal function and cortisol secretion during pregnancy. The adrenal glands produce cortisol, a hormone that helps the body cope with stress and regulates blood sugar. Adequate intake of vitamin B5 is essential for the adrenal glands to synthesise cortisol properly. When vitamin B5 levels are insufficient, cortisol production can become impaired and this can lead to adrenal fatigue.

    Cortisol production naturally increases as a response to hormones released by the placenta, in order to help the body accommodate the demands of the growing baby and prepare for childbirth. However, inadequate vitamin B5 levels can disrupt this process and cause issues like low cortisol levels, adrenal insufficiency, and fatigue. 

    Maintaining optimal vitamin B5 can help support healthy adrenal function and the proper rise in cortisol needed during pregnancy.

    Vitamin B5 and Postpartum

    In the postpartum period, when the body is recovering from the stresses of childbirth and adjusting to the demands of breastfeeding, Vitamin B5 continues to play a vital role in supporting energy metabolism and the body's ability to cope with stress.

    In conclusion, Vitamin B5 is essential for maintaining and supporting energy levels through its involvement in CoA synthesis, ensuring efficient nutrient metabolism. Additionally, its contribution to a healthy stress response is crucial during preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum, helping to safeguard the well-being of both the mother and the baby during these challenging and transformative phases of life.

    References

    Braun, L., & Cohen, M. (2014). Herbs & Natural Supplements – An Evidence-Based Guide. Elsevier.

    Combs, G. F. (2012). The Vitamins: Fundamental Aspects in Nutrition and Health (4th ed.). Academic Press.

    Food Standards Australia New Zealand. (2017). Schedule 4 Nutrition health and related claims. Schedule 1 RDI and ESADDI. Australia Government. Federal Register of Legislation.

    Gropper, S., Smith, J., & Groff, J. (2009). Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism (5th ed.). Wadsworth Cengage Learning.

    Institute of Medicine (US) Standing Committee on the Scientific Evaluation of Dietary Reference Intakes. (1998). Introduction to Dietary Reference Intakes. In Dietary reference intakes for thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, pantothenic acid, biotin, and choline. National Academies Press (US).

    Scientific Committee. (2013). Standard 1.2.7 – Nutrition, Health and Related Claims (FSANZ).

    Scientific Committee. (2011). Global Information Hub on Integrated Medicine.

    Said, H. M. (2012). Intestinal absorption of water-soluble vitamins in health and disease. Biochemical Journal, 437(3), 357-372. https://doi.org/10.1042/BJ20110326