Biotin for nail growth Does it work?
What is biotin?
Biotin is a B vitamin that is often touted as a natural remedy for brittle nails. Biotin is available as a supplement, however, it is found naturally in a number of foods. Advocates claim that biotin supplements can also help promote weight loss and treat conditions ranging from acne , eczema, diabetes and depression. Although research on biotin and nail health is somewhat limited, some studies suggest that biotin supplements can help treat brittle nails.
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The science behind biotin and nails
To date, there is not enough scientific evidence to evaluate the effectiveness of biotin in the treatment of brittle nails , according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Even so, some research shows that biotin can help improve brittle nails. For example, in a 2007 report published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, scientists claim that brittle nail syndrome can disappear when taking biotin 2.5 mg daily as a supplement.
Also, several small and ancient studies indicate that biotin is promising in the treatment of brittle nails. For example, in a 1993 study by Cutis magazine, researchers assigned 44 patients with brittle nails to six months of treatment with biotin supplements. Of the 35 people who completed the study, 63% showed a significant improvement, while 37% reported no changes in their condition.
Warnings
Although biotin appears to be well tolerated, the long-term side effects of high doses of biotin are unknown.
The supplements have not been tested for safety and due to the fact that dietary supplements are largely unregulated, the content of some products may differ from what is specified on the product label.
Also keep in mind that the safety of supplements has not been established in pregnant women, nursing mothers, children and people with medical problems or who are taking medications.
If you are considering the use of biotin, first talk with your primary care provider.
Biotin for nail growth
While some research suggests that biotin can help treat brittle nails, there is still not enough evidence to draw firm conclusions about the benefits of using biotin supplements to have healthier nails. To get your dose of biotin without using supplements, you can include biotin-rich foods in your diet such as:
- Beer yeast
- Nutritional yeast
- Cauliflower
- Salmon
- Bananas
- Carrots
- Egg yolks
- Sardines
- Vegetables
- Mushrooms
Although biotin deficiency is rare, it can occur in people who drink alcohol excessively or consume a large amount of raw egg white (which contains a protein that blocks the absorption of biotin). The genetic disorder of biotin deficiency, childhood seborrheic dermatitis, and surgical removal of the stomach may also increase your need for biotin. Symptoms of biotin deficiency include:
- Thinning hair
- A red scaly rash (especially around the eyes, nose, and mouth)
- Depression
- Exhaustion
- Hallucinations
- Tingling in the arms and legs
Brittle nails are often the normal result of the aging process. However, the fragility of the nails can sometimes indicate an underlying health problem (such as thyroid disease).
Symptoms of brittle nails include frequent and / or easy scratching, cracking, breaking or breaking of the nails. If you have brittle nails, it is important to consult your doctor instead of self-treating your nails with biotin supplements . Self-treatment of a condition and avoiding or delaying standard care can have serious consequences.