Most of us are familiar with supplements. They come in different shapes, sizes and colors. Since doctors usually prescribe certain doses, we do not give them much importance before we take them.
One of those supplements that we know, but we do not know much about, is biotin . If you take supplements of this vitamin, or have a deficiency in it, it is worth knowing everything related to this important vitamin.
What is biotin?
Biotin is an important component of the enzymes that break down fats, carbohydrates and other substances in the body. This water-soluble B vitamin is found in small amounts in several foods. The fact that it is soluble in water makes it important for people to supplement it every day since it is not stored in the body.
Biotin plays a key role in energy metabolism, fat synthesis, amino acid metabolism, cell signaling and glycogen synthesis. Needless to say, deficiency in this vitamin leads to a series of health disorders.
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What is biotin deficiency?
Biotin deficiency is a nutritional disorder that can be potentially dangerous to health. Although it is extremely rare in the Western world, considering the fact that biotin is widely distributed in food and only required in small quantities, certain people may be at risk of developing this deficiency. These people include:
- Pregnant or nursing mothers
- Alcohol addicts
- People with "biotinidase deficiency"
In addition, people who consume too many raw egg whites may be at risk for this deficiency. This is because the protein content in egg whites inhibits the absorption of biotin.
Symptoms of biotin deficiency
Although the condition is rare, certain symptoms may indicate biotin deficiency. These include:
- Hair loss (often with loss of hair color)
- Scaly reddish rash around the eyes, nose and mouth
- Loss of appetite
- Abnormal cardiac reactions
- Sickness
- Irritated tongue
- Pale or grayish skin
- Depression and hallucinations
- Tingling in arms and legs
- High levels of acid in the blood and urine
- Brittle nails
- Seizures
In children, biotin deficiency causes muscle weakness, slowness and developmental delay. Fortunately, this form of deficiency can be easily treated.
Treatment options for biotin deficiency
Biotin deficiency can be treated with the help of food or supplements. When it comes to food, cauliflower, egg yolks, corn, liver, chicken, yeast and mushrooms are good sources of biotin. In addition, you can also try fortified foods. An advantage of opting for natural sources is that along with biotin, you can get several other vitamins, minerals, dietary fats and dietary fiber.
Alternatively, you could opt for the supplements. But, be sure to consult a professional before doing so. This is because biotin supplements may interact with other medications, especially anticonvulsants and other nutritional supplements. The recommended amount of biotin is different for different people, but on average, adults should have 30 mcg of it each day. Although it is generally used to treat biotin deficiency, some research indicates that there may be benefits to its use.
Benefits of biotin
It is important to remember that biotin supplements should not be consumed without the approval of a professional. And, that the benefits listed so far have very little research to back them up. Having said that, some of the benefits that are discussed in relation to the consumption of biotin are the following
- Stronger nails: Some studies claim that biotin increases the thickness of the nails of the hands and feet in people with brittle nails.
- Relief of diabetic nerve pain: Biotin use may reduce nerve pain in people with diabetes.
- Higher hair thickness: Preliminary evidence suggests that a combination of biotin and zinc could promote hair growth and reduce hair loss.
- Reduce blood sugar level: Few studies claim that biotin and chromium together could lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes who do not respond to prescription medications.
Some studies have indicated that high doses of biotin have improved a rare hair disorder in children and rashes in babies.
Generally, if you have been prescribed a B-complex supplement, you will have adequate amounts of biotin in your body. But, if you notice any of the deficiency symptoms mentioned above, consult a professional as soon as possible.