Pantothenic acid is needed: to activate the metabolism, as it participates in the release of energy from basic nutrients and the use of other vitamins, especially vitamin B₂, to stimulate the work of the adrenal glands, increases the production of cortisone and other adrenal hormones that are important for the skin and nerves, to build up cells and develop the central nervous system, to synthesize cholesterol, steroids and fatty acids, to ensure a healthy digestive system, to increase the body’s resistance to stress, reduces the toxic effect of many antibiotics, protects against premature aging and wrinkles. There are no recommended amounts for pantothenic acid, but the estimated daily requirement is approximately 6 mg. Pantothenic acid is found in sufficient amounts in foods, and its deficiency occurs only in severe malnutrition. Pantothenic acid-deficient hair graying in mice can be reversed by administering pantothenic acid, but the once-popular idea that pantothenic acid could also restore hair color in humans has not been confirmed.
