Pantothenic Acid And Weight Loss

Pantothenic acid, also known as vitamin B5, is an essential, water-soluble vitamin that plays a significant role in a healthy body. A deficiency is quite rare, as it can be found in many foods including meat, seafood, vegetables and grains. It has also been explored for its role in aiding with weight loss, but the results do not seem to support the idea.

Pantothenic Acid

Pantothenic acid is called "pantothenic" because it is widely available. The name comes from the Greek word "pantos," meaning "everywhere." In addition to playing a significant role in metabolism of fatty acids, carbohydrates and proteins, pantothenic acid also contributes to the development of red blood cells, certain hormones and blood cholesterol.

Pantothenic Acid and Weight Loss

The Medical Hypothesis Journal published a 1995 study suggesting that pantothenic acid may be beneficial in preventing ketosis, a condition that results from fasting or extremely low-calorie and low-carbohydrate diets. The study participants, who were obese or overweight, experienced a decrease in the hunger and fatigue that results from restricted diets when they supplemented with pantothenic acid. The American Academy of Family Physicians notes that additional human trials have not supported the hypotheses that pantothenic acid causes weight loss or mitigates dieting symptoms of hunger or fatigue. It does not recommend supplementing with pantothenic acid for weight loss.

Pantothenic Acid Needs and Supplements

Your body needs about 5 mg pantothenic acid every day to be healthy, and you can usually consume adequate amounts from a varied diet. Fish, chicken, eggs, milk, yogurt, legumes, avocado, whole grain bread and sweet potatoes are good sources of pantothenic acid. As a supplement, pantothenic acid is sold as pantethine and pantothenol, which your body will convert into useable pantothenic acid. However, a varied diet should be adequate, and a supplement may be unnecessary, advises The Linus Pauling Institute.

Weight Loss Basics Without Supplements

The most basic way to lose weight is to count calories -- both consumed and expended. If you successfully reduce your caloric intake or increase your caloric output, you will begin losing weight. Reduce your calories by choosing lower fat, lower sugar foods, and reach for whole grain foods that will fill you up. Boost your caloric output by walking more, incorporating exercise into your weekly routine, and choosing activities that will get you moving such as taking your dog for a walk or visiting a park with friends. If your lifestyle changes are fun, you will be more likely to stick to them.

Weight Loss Benefits

Maintaining a healthy weight and preventing obesity helps to reduce your risk factors for chronic diseases including heart disease, stroke, cancers and type 2 diabetes. Modest weight loss can help to reduce those risk factors, the American Dietetic Association reports. By making small, simple changes, you can reduce your blood pressure or blood cholesterol levels, which will help change your risks of developing conditions later. When you pair a healthier lifestyle with an adequate diet that provides all your nutrients, including pantothenic acid, your health should gradually improve.