          
          
               Pantothenic acid is a B-complex vitamin.
          
               Functions: Involved in release of energy from 
          carbohydrates, metabolism of fats, and synthesis of steroid 
          hormones and other vital substances.
          
               Sources: Milk; beef, pork and poultry; legumes; some 
          fruits and vegetables, including strawberries, dried fruit, 
          avocados, mushrooms, potatoes, and succotash; whole-grain 
          cereal products.  Deficiency: Pantothenic acid deficiency 
               has not been recognized in humans, and it is unlikely 
          to occur in the U.S. population.
          
               Excess: No effects have been reported.
          
