Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid (or its supplement form, calcium pantothenate), plays a crucial role in the synthesis and metabolism of coenzyme A, which is involved in energy production and the synthesis of steroid hormones, including those produced by the adrenal glands (such as cortisol). Animal studies dating back to the mid-20th century have shown that pantothenic acid deficiency can lead to impaired adrenal function and a reduction in adrenal gland size. These findings have led to the hypothesis that adequate B5 is important for healthy adrenal function. However, in humans, overt deficiency is rare, and there is limited direct clinical evidence showing that supplementation with vitamin B5 improves adrenal health or function, particularly in individuals without a deficiency.

Most of the support for B5 in adrenal health comes from its established biochemical role in steroid hormone synthesis rather than from robust clinical trials. Some alternative and integrative medicine traditions recommend B5 as part of "adrenal support" supplements, especially in the context of so-called "adrenal fatigue," but this condition is not recognized by mainstream medicine. Overall, while there is a plausible scientific rationale for the importance of B5 in adrenal function, there is a lack of high-quality human research demonstrating that supplementation provides additional benefits beyond correcting a deficiency. Thus, the evidence is limited and largely theoretical.

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