Pantothenic acid

Pantothenic acid has several functions, such as helping the body release energy from food.

Good sources of pantothenic acid

Pantothenic acid is found in varying amounts in almost all vegetables, wholegrain foods, and meats, but good sources include:

• chicken
• beef
• liver and kidneys
• eggs
• mushrooms
• avocado
• Dairy Milk
• Fortified cereals
• Nuts, seeds

Breakfast cereals are also a good source if they have been fortified with pantothenic acid.

How much pantothenic acid do I need?

No amount has been set in the UK for how much pantothenic acid you need.

You should be able to get all the pantothenic acid you need from your daily diet, as it’s found in many foods.

Pantothenic acid cannot be stored in the body, so you need it in your diet every day.

What happens if I take too much pantothenic acid?

There’s not enough evidence to know what the effects might be of taking high daily doses of pantothenic acid supplements.

Important Tips

You should be able to get all the pantothenic acid you need by eating a varied and balanced diet.

If you take supplements, do not take too much as this might be harmful.

Taking 200mg or less a day of pantothenic acid in supplements is unlikely to cause any harm.