Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
For the body system: Cortisol

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Synopsis

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

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) and the Cortisol Body System

Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, is an essential nutrient involved in numerous metabolic processes, including the synthesis of coenzyme A, which is critical for fatty acid metabolism and energy production. Its connection to the "cortisol body system"—referring to adrenal function and the regulation of cortisol, a key stress hormone—has some basis in scientific research, although evidence in humans is limited and not robust.

Animal studies, particularly in rats, have demonstrated that pantothenic acid is necessary for normal adrenal cortex function. Deficiency in pantothenic acid can result in impaired adrenal function and decreased synthesis of corticosteroids, including cortisol (PMID: 10347693). Some early research suggested that supplementation could support adrenal health under stress, possibly aiding the body's ability to manage and produce cortisol.

However, direct clinical evidence in humans is sparse. While pantothenic acid is often included in "adrenal support" supplements and promoted by some practitioners for stress resilience, there are no large-scale, high-quality clinical trials demonstrating significant benefits for modulating cortisol levels or treating adrenal-related disorders. Most individuals consuming a regular diet receive adequate amounts of pantothenic acid, and deficiency is rare.

In summary, the use of vitamin B5 to support the cortisol body system has modest scientific justification based largely on animal studies and biochemical reasoning, but lacks strong clinical validation in humans.

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