From:
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Date: 2003-01-11 22:14:29 UTC
Subject: vitamin B5
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <182.1511f4f8.2b51f145@aol.com>
While researching to switch to a raw diet, I was struck by this section in
The Holistic Guide for a Healthy Dog by Wendy Volhard & Kerry Brown, DVM. Is
it just coincidence that so many of the factors listed as connected with this
vitamin are familiar to ferret owners (hyperadrenalism, hypoglycemia, IBD,
gastric ulcers, hind end weakness)? Does anyone know anything about the role
of B5 in ferret diets? I also find it curious that many of the related
conditions in ferrets seem to be the opposite of the listed hypovitaminosis
effects.
"Vitamin B-5 (pantothenic acid, calcium pantothenate)
"Purpose: Stimulates adrenal glands to produce natural cortisone and
hormones and as such is known as the "anti-stress" vitamin. It is thought to
help prevent aging and is important to healthy skin and nerves. Through
support of the adrenal gland, B-5 may reduce toxic effects of antibiotics and
radiation. Necessary for proper utilization of fats and carbohydrates and
supports many neurotransmitter (brain) functions. Essential for the
synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol and steroids. Used after surgery for
paralysis of the gastrointestinal tract to stimulate peristalis.
"Credited with: Helping to prevent hair loss, turning graying hair back to
natural color, anti-stress vitamin, anti-aging, involved in all functions of
the body; helpful in treating hypoglycemia; painful, burning feat; adrenal
and emotional exhaustion. Used in dogs that grind their teeth at night or
who have epilepsy, neuritis and multiple sclerosis; used as treatment for
mental diseases in humans. As calcium pantothenate it has been helpful in
reducing joint pain, stiffness and reducing arthritis symptoms.
"Digestibility: Produced by intestinal bacteria. Available in many foods,
although a great percentage is lost in food processing, half in the milling
process of grains and one-third in cooking meat. Water soluble.
"Deficiencies: Emotionally oversensitive, premature graying of hair, low
blood sugar, Addison's disease. Erratic appetite, lowered antibody response.
Spastic movements of the hind end. Reduced blood cholesterol. Studies in
rats deficient in B-5 showed graying of fur, decreased growth, destruction of
adrenal glands and hemorrhage. Deficiency causes a decrease in hydrochloric
acid production in the stomach (necessary as the first step in the digestive
process) and problems in blood sugar metabolism. Reduces immunity and
worsens all allergy symptoms.
"Notes: Pantothenic acid taken alone for longer than 6 months without being
balanced with other B-complex vitamins displaces sulphur in the body."
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