Vitamin B5 Blood Test

What is the purpose of this test?

Order this Vitamin B5 Blood test to measure vitamin B5 levels in the blood to screen for a Pantothenic acid deficiency. Vitamin B5, also called Pantothenic acid, comes from the Greek root "pantos," meaning everywhere because it is widely available in various foods. Vitamin B5 is necessary to synthesize hormones and cholesterol, produce red blood cells, maintain a healthy digestive tract, and break down fats and carbohydrates (metabolism). Unfortunately, a lot of vitamin B5 is lost when food is processed during refining, canning, and freezing food, so it is essential to eat fresh foods.

What foods provide Vitamin B5?

Foods that naturally contain rich amounts of vitamin B5 include: 

• Avocados
• Eggs
• Legumes and lentils
• Milk
• Mushrooms
• Potatoes (white and sweet)
• Proteins found in animal products
• Vegetables belonging to the cabbage family (broccoli and kale)
• Whole-grain cereals
• Yeast

When should I get a Vitamin B5 test?

Although a vitamin B5 deficiency is rare, it is usually the result of severe malnutrition. Individuals may order this test if they have experienced certain signs or symptoms of a vitamin B5 deficiency, such as:

• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Headaches
• Depression
• Irritability
• Vomiting
• Stomach pains
• Numbness or burning in hands or feet
• Upper respiratory infections

Individuals may also order this Vitamin B5 Blood Test to screen for or confirm a deficiency diagnosis if they have experienced associated symptoms. Additionally, this test may be used to determine if individuals have an excessive level of vitamin B5 in the blood, also known as toxicity. Like a vitamin B5 deficiency, vitamin B5 toxicity is also rare. However, excessive vitamin B5 levels can be caused by the overuse of dietary supplements. Left untreated, individuals with excessive vitamin B5 levels can experience serious health problems, including diarrhea, stomach problems, headaches, extreme stress, and an increased risk of bleeding.