The Impact of Vitamin B5 on Children’s Health: What the Research Says

Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, plays a key role in energy metabolism, brain development, and skin health. While often overlooked, its contribution to pediatric health is gaining attention in nutritional science. This post explores the role of B5 in children, supported by peer-reviewed studies.

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⚙️ 1. Energy Production for Growing Bodies

Pantothenic acid is essential for synthesizing coenzyme A (CoA), a molecule vital for converting food into energy.

• According to the Journal of Nutrition (2014), CoA is involved in over 100 metabolic pathways, including fatty acid metabolism—a crucial process during the growth phases of childhood (Zhang et al., 2014).

• A deficiency in B5 may lead to low energy, reduced appetite, and physical lethargy in children, as noted in a review by Combs (2012) in The Vitamins.

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🧠 2. Brain Development and Cognitive Function

Vitamin B5 supports neurotransmitter synthesis, including acetylcholine, which is important for memory and learning.

• In a rodent model study published in Neurochemical Research (2008), B5-deficient rats showed impaired memory and cognitive function (Ching et al., 2008).

• While human pediatric trials are limited, a clinical study in China (Wang et al., 2019) involving 300 children found that higher B-vitamin intake (including B5) correlated with better cognitive performance and attention span.

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🌱 3. Immune and Adrenal Function

Pantothenic acid is critical for adrenal gland function, which helps regulate the body’s stress response and immune reactions.

• A 2020 Nutrients review article notes that B5 supports the synthesis of adrenal hormones, which are especially active during periods of physical and emotional stress—common in young school-aged children (Yadav et al., 2020).

• Children under stress or illness may show improved recovery and immune resilience with adequate pantothenic acid intake.

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✨ 4. Skin, Hair, and Mucous Membrane Health

Vitamin B5 is commonly used in skincare for adults, but it also benefits children by promoting healthy skin and faster healing.

• A randomized trial published in Pediatric Dermatology (2015) showed that topical application of dexpanthenol (a B5 derivative) reduced diaper rash duration in infants compared to placebo (Hebert et al., 2015).

• It supports epithelial regeneration, essential for growing children prone to scrapes and rashes.

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📈 5. Behavioral and Mood Effects

Emerging research links B5 to emotional regulation and behavior, though more studies are needed.

• A pilot study in Child and Adolescent Mental Health (2016) noted that B-vitamin complexes (including pantothenic acid) improved symptoms of irritability and low mood in children with mild emotional dysregulation.

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🔬 Recommended Intake

• The Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) for children aged 4–8 is 3 mg/day, and 4–5 mg/day for those aged 9–13 (NIH, 2022).

• Rich sources include: eggs, dairy, mushrooms, avocados, and whole grains.

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🧾 Summary of Benefits for Kids