Overview Of B Vitamins

Pantothenic Acid

Pantothenic acid helps the body use carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. This is also called vitamin B5. It is considered an essential nutrient, and it is found in most animal products, including meat, eggs, and dairy. In addition, vitamin B5 can be easily obtained from plant sources, including cereals, grains, vegetables, and legumes. Patients may be prescribed supplements if they have low pantothenic acid.

This vitamin is used in cosmetics to improve skin, hair, and nail health. Topical application of vitamin B5 may reduce acne lesions, and it may decrease the risk of nail breakage. Healthy adults are advised to consume five micrograms of pantothenic acid each day. If at all possible, doctors recommend that this amount is obtained through food instead of supplements. This vitamin is not known to interact with any medications. However, patients who are taking supplements should let their doctor know about all of the medicines they use.

Niacin

The body produces niacin, which is also called vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid. It is used to convert food into energy. Mushrooms, potatoes, peanuts, and passionfruit are ideal dietary sources of niacin. Healthy females who are nineteen and older are advised to consume fourteen milligrams of niacin each day. Healthy males in this age group are advised to have a daily intake of sixteen milligrams. Research shows that niacin can increase levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, which is the healthy type. Niacin supplements may be prescribed for patients with high cholesterol who cannot take statins. However, unlike statins, niacin supplements have not been shown to reduce the risk of heart attacks or strokes. Pregnant women should not take these supplements. They are also not safe for individuals with stomach ulcers or severe liver disease.

Generally, niacin supplements are prescribed at doses between one to three thousand milligrams per day. Patients who take prescription niacin could experience side effects such as a rapid heartbeat, nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Prescription niacin may make blood glucose control more difficult for diabetes patients. In addition, it may increase the risk of gout. These side effects are most likely with daily doses of two to six thousand milligrams. Niacin supplements can interact with certain medications and supplements, such as anticoagulants, diabetes medications, and zinc. Thus, patients should speak to their doctor about their current medications before taking niacin supplements.