Pronunciation: [pˌantəθˈɛnɪk] (IPA) 
The word "pantothenic" is spelled with seven letters and is pronounced /pænˈtoʊθɛnɪk/. It contains the root word "pantho" meaning "everywhere" and "thenic" which comes from the Greek word "theinein" meaning "to make thinner". This vitamin, B5, is found in a variety of foods and is essential for proper bodily function. Despite its complex spelling, "pantothenic" is commonly used in the fields of nutrition and medicine.
Pantothenic, also known as pantothenate or vitamin B5, is an essential nutrient that belongs to the family of B-vitamins. The term "pantothenic" refers to its inclusion of pantothenic acid, a water-soluble vitamin necessary for the proper functioning of the body. Pantothenic acid plays a vital role in the production, metabolism, and breakdown of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. It is a key component in the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA), a molecule that participates in numerous biochemical reactions in the body.
As a dietary supplement, pantothenic acid is typically derived from various food sources, including meat, eggs, legumes, whole grains, and vegetables. It is an important nutrient for maintaining a healthy digestive system, as it aids in the production of digestive enzymes necessary for the breakdown and absorption of nutrients. Additionally, pantothenic acid supports the production of adrenal hormones involved in stress management and plays a vital role in skin health, as it is involved in the production of skin cells and tissue repair.
Deficiency in pantothenic acid is relatively rare due to its widespread occurrence in food. However, severe deficiencies can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, numbness or tingling in extremities, gastrointestinal disturbances, and impaired wound healing. Pantothenic acid is generally recognized as safe for most individuals when consumed through a varied diet, and there is currently no established tolerable upper intake level due to its low toxicity.
The word "pantothenic" is derived from the Greek words "pantothen" (παντοθεν), meaning "from all sides" or "from everywhere", and "ikos" (ικος), which means "pertaining to" or "related to". When combined, these Greek roots form "pantothenikos", which can be translated as "pertaining to/from everywhere". The term "pantothenic" specifically refers to the B vitamin called pantothenic acid, which is essential for the body's metabolic processes.
