Monday, December 3, 2018

What is biotin for and what are its benefits?

Biotin, also called vitamin B7 or H, is a water-soluble vitamin belonging to the group of B vitamins.

Its function in the organism is very important, since it participates in the metabolism of fats, amino acids and carbohydrates.

By participating in the metabolic process, biotin is one of those responsible for transporting and transforming into energy all the nutrients that we ingest.

Once metabolized, these nutrients are transformed into chemical energy that the body's cells use to repair and keep the body healthy.

It is no coincidence that the word biotin means life. Like vitamin B12, biotin participates in the production of red blood cells.

In addition, it is a powerful antioxidant that helps block and diminish the effects of free radicals, which cause oxidation and aging of the organism.

Like all vitamins belonging to the B complex, biotin is water soluble. We eliminate it mostly through urine. Therefore, a daily intake is necessary for our body to function properly.

There is no medical test that tells us if we have biotin deficiency. However, the human body is a machine that every time it fails, it sends us signals that allow us to know that something is happening.

Many conditions in our body may be due to biotin deficiency and we do not know. Here we will show what are those symptoms or diseases that could indicate that we need this important vitamin.


Biotin Supplements




Biotin: the perfect balance between body and mind

In the last years, stress , depression and anxiety have been cataloged as the most important diseases of the 21st century. These not only affect the way we live in our day to day, but also harm our health.

When we are depressed, our blood pressure increases and we have difficulty sleeping and breathing. We lose our appetite and our energy intake decreases, causing our immune and nervous systems to be affected.

A weak immune system can not defend itself from the viruses and bacteria that are found in the environment and, therefore, we are more prone to contract diseases.

When the nervous system is disturbed by anxiety, depression or stress, we usually somatize the emotions. That is, we involuntarily transform our psychic discomfort into a physical malaise.

Experts say that depression and stress alter the immune system. The attack on the immune system is so aggressive that even people can get cancer.

They also point out that the organism is a whole and we can not separate the emotions of the nervous and immune system. If one part of the body is failing, the others will also be affected.

The function of the immune system is to defend our body from external agents: viruses, bacteria and other infectious processes.

When the immune system is disturbed, it can not differentiate if the attack it is suffering comes from a foreign body or its own. It is at that moment when he begins to attack our own body.



Why do we tell you all this?

Because biotin is a vitamin supplement that can help you fight depression, stress and anxiety.

As we have already told you, by participating in the metabolic process of the nutrients we ingest, biotin provides us with energy, proteins and antioxidants that strengthen and balance our entire body.

A person with a strong nervous, cellular and metabolic system will be able to face stress in a more positive way. It will not attack your body and, therefore, decrease the chances of getting any disease.
Biotin: an ally for skin diseases

Let's see how biotin is able to exert its beneficial action on various skin diseases.

This is the case of dermatitis, one of the most common skin diseases.

It is a skin inflammation that produces stinging, redness, papules and exudation.

When it is in its most critical phase, dermatitis can cause pain, because the skin is exposed to external agents.

Patients with acute dermatitis are usually more likely to get cellulitis, a dangerous bacterial infection that, if not treated early, can result in the death of the patient.

Dermatitis is usually related to allergies to some foods, respiratory problems, gluten intolerance or some intestinal pathology.

But also, atopic or seborrheic dermatitis is usually associated with people who are constantly under stress and have a weak immune system.

Doctors usually prescribe to patients with corticoid dermatitis or steroids, a hormone generated by the adrenal glands that has the function of converting proteins into carbohydrates.

Corticosteroids help control inflammation and the functioning of the immune system.

However, the use of corticosteroids does not always help to improve dermatitis.

This adrenal hormone can produce various side effects in patients.

Among them we can mention: increased appetite, insomnia and fluid retention. One of the most dangerous side effects is the increase in blood glucose levels.

On the other hand, if corticosteroids are applied through ointments, creams or ointments, long-term patients experience resistance to the product.

It has also been proven that the skin loses elasticity and increase the chances of stretch marks.

In recent years, dermatologists have been using biotin to combat dermatitis and other skin diseases, since biotin helps fight stress and anxiety, two detonating factors of dermatitis.

In addition, biotin strengthens the immune, nervous and metabolic systems that, as we have pointed out, are affected in patients with cutaneous diseases.

Unlike corticosteroids, biotin has no side effects. On the contrary, it helps regulate our blood sugar levels, while steroids raise them.

If you suffer from acne, rosacea or psoriasis, biotin will be an ally of great help to improve and overcome any of these diseases.

In addition to skin inflammation, it will also help keep you free of bacteria due to its antiseptic properties.

Biotin also participates in the production of collagen, an essential protein for the process of healing and regeneration of skin tissues.



Biotin: a potent vitamin to prevent and control diabetes

Diabetes is one of the most common diseases in the world population. China, India and the USA lead the ranking of countries with the most diabetes patients.

Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs because the pancreas does not synthesize the amount of insulin needed by the body.

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas and its main function is to maintain controlled blood glucose levels.

In a healthy person, insulin allows glucose to enter the body and be transported into cells.

When this happens, glucose is converted into energy that allows us to keep our muscles and tissues healthy. The cells have the ability to store glucose to produce energy when we need it.

If insulin does not cause glucose to be transported into the cells, the diabetic patient suffers from excess blood sugar or hyperglycemia.

The cells are somehow saturated and the body can suffer damage to tissues, muscles and organs.
Types of diabetes and their symptoms

Diabetes can be associated with hereditary factors, blood pressure and obesity. People who eat a diet high in fat and sugar are more likely to get diabetes.

However, many people may suffer from diabetes and not know it.

Some of the most frequent symptoms are the following:

  •     Diabetics tend to have excessive thirst due to high levels of sugar in the body.
  •     Weakness, fatigue and fatigue.
  •     Difficulty for wounds, scratches and blows to heal.
  •     Infections constant in the skin.
  •     Drastic changes of humor.
  •     Stinging and numbness in the hands and feet.
  •     Progressive loss of vision (type I diabetes).
  •     Cloudy view
  •     High levels of blood and urine glucose

There are two types of diabetes:

    Type 1: it is the most aggressive type of diabetes and it usually occurs in patients suddenly. Even no matter if there is a family history. It can only be controlled through injected doses of insulin that allow controlling the process of synthesizing glucose in the body.
    Type 2: it is less invasive than type I. Patients with this type of diabetes usually do not have symptoms. Even years can go by without a diagnosis. It can be treated with antidiabetic tablets or with a combination of insulin and pills.

Biotin, as part of the process of metabolizing fats, proteins and amino acids, is responsible for transforming glucose into energy.

Therefore, if the pancreas is not producing enough insulin, biotin serves as an alternative method to control type II diabetes.

Biotin can help us prevent diabetes, because its function is to control the levels of sugar in our body, as well as the proper absorption of all the nutrients we consume.




Brittle nails and hair loss

Biotin not only helps us to have a healthy organism, but also the good health we have will be reflected in our physical appearance.

Hair loss and brittle nails may be related to stress or nutritional deficiencies.

There are a variety of vitamins, especially those belonging to the B complex, which can help us fight hair loss and brittle nails.

In recent years it has been fashionable to use biotin in shampoos and lotions, however, there is no study to prove that biotin is effective when applied cutaneously or topically (through the skin).

The ideal is to obtain biotin through food or vitamin complexes, since its efficiency in this way is proven.

Biotin, as we have already mentioned, is responsible for synthesizing and producing amino acids in our body.

When biotin synthesizes amino acids, they form chains that produce proteins. Keratin is one of those fundamental proteins for the growth of hair and nails.

The cuticle is a fibrous coating composed of keratin. This is the one in charge of protecting our hair when we use dyes or any chemical product.

Biotin has the function of producing enough keratin for the cuticle to be strong and able to withstand any damage.

Keratin production not only helps your hair grow, it also keeps it healthy, shiny and manageable. The nails are also benefited with this protein, as they will grow healthier and stronger.

And the most affordable way, to obtain the benefits of biotin for skin and hair, is to re-activate skin, hair and nails .

Re-Activates Skin, Hair and Nails combines natural substances of first quality, which help you to fight acne, rosacea, eczema and dermatitis, improving the skin from the inside, for more lasting effects.




Biotin: an analgesic for rheumatoid arthritis

Studies conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases show that at least 47 million Americans suffer from arthritis.

Studies also indicate that it is the leading cause of disability in people 65 years of age or older.

Arthritis is another of the most common diseases in the world population. Patients with arthritis tend to have swollen joints, as well as stiffness and difficulty moving.

When the disease is without its most critical stage, it can cause fever, fatigue, loss of weight, lack of appetite and a progressive deterioration of the whole organism.

Arthritis is part of the so-called autoimmune diseases. In a healthy person, the immune system is responsible for protecting your body from any virus, bacteria, microorganisms and even tumor cells.

The white blood cells or leukocytes, are part of the immune system, because they are responsible for defending our body from possible threats.

In patients with arthritis, the immune system reacts against the tissues of the body itself, as it perceives them as a threat.

That is, the immune system instead of protecting the body attacks it, that's why arthritis is called an autoimmune disease.

The inflammation characteristic of arthritis is a reaction of our organism to the "attack" that it is suffering.

Unfortunately this disease has no cure, but there are ways to relieve pain. Biotin, in addition to the properties that we have already mentioned, is rich in antioxidants.

Antioxidants are important to strengthen and maintain our immune system healthy and alert to any threat.

In addition, they protect us from free radicals, molecules that are capable of damaging our tissues through an oxidation process.

When our immune system is in optimal condition begins to regenerate the tissue of the joints and, therefore, the bone tissue is strengthened.

The anti-inflammatory properties of biotin make it an excellent ally to relieve and reduce inflammation of the joints, thus improving the quality of life of patients with different types of arthritis.




What are foods rich in biotin?

There are many foods in which we can find such an important vitamin. The most common are the following:

    Egg: it is an important source of proteins, therefore it is rich in biotin. We recommend you to consume it cooked.

Egg white contains avidin, a glycoprotein that binds to biotin easily and forms a non-steerable avidin-biotin complex. This combination blocks the absorption of biotin.

Excessive consumption of egg whites can produce a deficit of biotin in the body. In addition, we run the risk of contracting Salmonella.

  •     Salmon.
  •     Liver: it is rich in biotin, but if you suffer from high cholesterol, you have to consume it in moderation since it has a high fat content.
  •     Milk.
  •     Sardines
  •     Turkey.
  •     Tomato: besides being very rich in biotin, the tomato contains minerals such as iron, phosphorus and magnesium.
  •     Avocado.
  •     Sweet potato and sweet potato.
  •     Cauliflower
  •     Cambur or banana
  •     Carrots
  •     Sunflower seeds: very rich in biotin and minerals such as selenium and magnesium.
  •     Almonds
  •     Peanut or peanut
  •     Mushrooms, mushrooms or mushrooms.
  •     Brewer's yeast: it is very rich in biotin and proteins that help to regenerate skin tissues.
  •     Nutritional supplements containing biotin among its ingredients

How do I access the benefits of biotin quickly and simply? In Re-Activates Skin, Hair and Nails , the ideal combination of biotin, vitamins and plant extracts, specially formulated to improve the skin from within.




Biotin: myths and truths

    One of the most common myths about biotin is that if you consume them "you will gain weight".

If that is your fear, do not worry. All vitamins are acaloric nutrients , therefore, they do not provide energy to our body.

    "Biotin opens the appetite". That is not true either. Vitamins help you eat the amount of calories needed for the body to be healthy. An excessive intake of food may be related to other factors such as stress or anxiety.

    "I'm pregnant, I can not take vitamins." On the contrary, if you are pregnant your body will need more vitamins, since you have to give nutrients to your baby.

Vitamins reduce the risk of the baby developing an abnormality or congenital disease.

It is even recommended that you consume vitamin supplements before becoming pregnant, so that your body is prepared for the gestation period.

    "If I smoke, I can not take biotin." Ideally, stop smoking.

However, it is proven that in smokers the oxidation process is faster, due to the amount of toxic substances in the cigarette. Biotin helps make the oxidation process less aggressive.

We live in a world in which we are constantly subjected to stress, anxiety and depression.

Therefore, it is not enough that we have a balanced diet. You also need a daily exercise routine, not smoking and drinking alcohol in moderation.

Combining all these routines with the intake of vitamin supplements such as biotin will allow you to have a healthy mind, a healthy body and a full and healthy life.





What are the benefits of biotin for the body?

Discover what are the benefits of biotin in your body and why you should not forget to include it in your diet.

You may have heard or read the word biotin in many places, but you do not know exactly what it is or what its benefits are. Biotin is a vitamin and, therefore, it is also known as Vitamin B8, B7 or Vitamin H. It is also a water-soluble vitamin, that is, if we want to keep it in our body we have to consume it daily, since our body does not has the ability to store it. For our body it can be fundamental in certain aspects, such as in cell growth, in the metabolization of fats, carbohydrates and amino acids.
Biotin Supplements

Where can we find biotin?

This vitamin, biotin, is found in several foods, whether of vegetable or animal origin, but in small quantities. For example, in foods of animal origin , where more biotin is found in the viscera, specifically in the kidney and liver. But there are other foods that contain biotin, such as the yolk of eggs, milk, cheeses ... And, as we have said, there are also foods of vegetable origin that vegetarians can eat. For example, some are brewer's yeast, whole grains, soybeans, barley, some nuts (almonds, peanuts, nuts ...).

As you see, there are many foods that contain this vitamin. Therefore, you can choose which of them to take to provide the body with the amount of biotin needed daily. It is advisable that this amount be between 30 and 110 micrograms of biotin per day . In addition, if you maintain the consumption of biotin you will also be contributing to the organism a series of benefits that this vitamin contains.
Benefits of biotin in the human body

1. Help improve our hair

One of the best known benefits of biotin is the great amount of properties it brings to our hair. For example, it brings more shine and strengthens our hair . In addition, this vitamin is recommended as a natural supplement against hair loss . We already know that one of the causes that cause hair loss is the deficiency of one or several vitamins or minerals. Therefore, it is important to control the feeding to solve this problem. And biotin enters the diet. Regarding this, it must be said that there are currently some shampoos that contain biotin. They are however, its use is not effective since this vitam

ina is not absorbed through the skin. Therefore, we recommend foods with biotin.

2. Biotin helps reduce anxiety and stress

The majority of the population lives with some anxiety , whether because of work, family or other reasons. This is normal. However, high levels of anxiety can lead to other more serious problems. Therefore, consume certain nutritional supplements, such as biotin, can combat stress . In addition, there are also studies that show that the absence of vitamins, like this one, can cause mild depression. Therefore, its intake prevents or reduces fatigue, stress, sadness ...

3. Help in the metabolic process

As we pointed out at the beginning, biotin is important for our body to metabolize fats, carbohydrates and proteins . In addition, it also helps in functions of amino acids and vitamins, such as B 12 . In general, it is a good vitamin to accelerate metabolism and also helps us improve intestinal functioning.

4. It works as an analgesic

If you are a person who performs exercise or suffer muscular pains frequently, you are interested in knowing which foods are biotin to be able to ingest them. The reason is that, this vitamin also works as an analgesic, that is, relieves muscle pain . Therefore, consuming biotin will provide you with a greater sense of well-being.

5. It has great contributions for the skin

Another benefit that biotin brings us is the large number of properties it brings to the skin. For example, ingesting foods that contain this protein will be helping to treat seborrheic dermatitis , dry skin . But not only this, but we will also be preventing irritation, cracking or any skin infection.

However, there are cases that have indicated that an excess of this vitamin can cause acne in people , especially in the area of ​​the face. When biotin is reduced or stopped, it has been proven that acne disappears. Therefore, it is important to control the amount we take and not leave the recommended doses.

6. Biotin for blood

You should also know that the lack of biotin is related to a risk of anemia . And, this vitamin, helps in the creation of hemoglobin and, therefore, also adjusts blood levels .

In addition, biotin contributes to a good energetic functioning of our body. This also facilitates obtaining energy through glucose. Therefore, it also establishes adequate levels of blood sugar . This means that it helps prevent diabetic neuropathy .

7. Good to strengthen nails

The same thing happens with the hair, we also find it in the nails. Biotin helps the health of our nails , since the cells responsible for their growth are regenerated thanks to this vitamin. In addition, not only helps its growth, but its thickness. Therefore, strengthens them so that we do not have brittle nails, but healthy, smooth and long .

All these are the most striking and most known properties and benefits of biotin. But it must also be said that they may not affect all people in the same way , since there are many factors that influence it. For example, the type of hair or skin. Perhaps one person notices more than another that his hair is strengthened thanks to biotin.

In addition, there are people who, when they include biotin in their diet, notice certain stomach pains, diarrhea or nausea. In this case, it is best to stop consuming the vitamin so that the symptoms disappear or reduce the dose to check if it disappears after the first intake. Therefore, it is appropriate to always consult a specialist before starting a treatment with this vitamin and not take it on our own.




Biotin and its use

Biotin (biothin, biotin) is a water-soluble vitamin. It means that the body does not have the capacity to store it and therefore it has to be consumed daily. It is known by several names: biotin, vitamin B8, vitamin B7 and vitamin H. It is an element that binds to several essential enzymes in the processes of cell duplication. It is used for cell growth, in the production of fatty acids, and in the metabolism of fat and amino acids.

Biotin Supplements


Where to find biotin?

We find it abundantly in foods of animal origin. Some are: viscera, especially the kidney and liver. Also in meat, egg yolk, milk, cheese, fish, chicken, in royal jelly, etc. For vegans or vegetarians it is much more complicated to obtain. It can be found in foods such as: brewer's yeast, whole grains and their derivatives, mushrooms, barley, nuts, soybeans, peas, chickpeas, mushrooms, cauliflower, potato, banana, grape, watermelon, avocado, strawberries, peanuts , yeast, milk, almonds, nuts, etc.

There are people with difficulty absorbing biotin. It is medically proven that people who have group A blood can usually have more problems absorbing this vitamin. Also people with heartburn problems. Or rather: people who take antacids. In this case, less absorption of this vitamin may be noted.

When it is evident that there is a problem of biotin deficiency, it is advisable to opt for supplements. 100 to 200 micrograms are needed daily. The extra contributions of this element usually also contain iron.

Benefits of this natural vitamin

It fulfills vital functions in our organism. These go beyond the appearance of the skin or hair . Its enzymes participate in the synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, amino acids and in obtaining energy. These enzymes also bind histones. These are very important for the synthesis of DNA, which would mean that its presence is a road for the transcription and replication of DNA.

A deficiency of biotin in addition to causing skin loss, nails and hair loss. It can also lead to depression, weakening, hallucinations, irritation, fatigue, rash and loss of appetite.

Therefore, here we can relate some of its benefits :

  • Relieves stress
  • Stabilizes blood sugar levels (helping control hunger)
  • Keeps skin healthy by helping it to renew itself
  • Help in hair loss problems
  • Strengthens nails
  • Prevents the appearance of premature graying
  • Delays the appearance of premature wrinkles and helps fight it
  • Maintains the protective barrier of the skin
  • Help with memory and concentration

Its application in the hair can bring great advantages

The problem of hair loss can be as a consequence of the deficiency of one or several vitamins or minerals. It is advisable to review and check the diet in a serious and responsible manner. Controlling nutrition can not only solve the problem of hair loss, but also many other complications that may be evident in the body.

Regarding this we can say that biotin is often recommended as a natural supplement to counteract hair loss. Both in children and adults. However, there are no studies that show its benefits when the body is not lacking this vitamin. One of the symptoms of his deficiency is hair loss and in more severe cases, the loss of eyelashes and eyebrows.

There are some shampoos in the market that contain biotin. But its benefit over hair is doubtful, since it is not absorbed through the skin. We must mention that it has become very fashionable to use the shampoo for horses . We must bear in mind that these shampoos have been made for horses and we do not know the consequences of their use.

An advice. A good collagen mask is the best to repair, shine and moisturize the hair.




What is Biotin?

You may have heard about biotin , but you do not know exactly what it is. This is a fundamental vitamin that we must contribute to our body to metabolize fats, carbohydrates and amino acids.

In turn, biotin, also known as Vitamin B8, B7 or Vitamin H, is responsible for transforming glucose into energy, maintaining healthy tissue cells such as skin, hair or nails, as well as the creation of hemoglobin. As we see it is very important to have a correct Biotin contribution.

Biotin Supplements



Due to these beneficial properties, biotin is used in different treatments, such as type II diabetes, seborrheic dermatitis and especially in treatments for hair with biotin, using shampoos and tablets to alleviate hair weakness and its subsequent drop.

Benefits of biotin

Biotin has been used for a long time in shampoos for horses, but nowadays biotin shampoos are starting to proliferate, which makes it possible to keep the hair stronger and to solve problems such as dandruff.

Although it is difficult to have a lack of biotin, in the cases that occur, it can cause health problems that affect the skin, hair or nervous system. These problems of lack of biotin can occur in vomiting, muscle aches, lack of muscle mass or sores on the tongue.

Where do we find biotin?

We can find different foods with biotin of animal or vegetable origin, especially in the egg yolk, liver and viscera, brewer's yeast, mushrooms and whole grains. This contribution of biotin should be less in children under 11 years, with an amount ranging between 10 and 30 micrograms. From this age, it is recommended that the contribution be between 30 micrograms and 110.

Biotin for hair

Biotin is well known due to the properties it has to improve our hair. This vitamin provides a greater shine and strength to hair, so in recent years have come all kinds of hair treatments with biotin. The most common form of these treatments are shampoos, especially the one known as horse shampoo, but numerous studies have confirmed that the effect of these shampoos in most cases is zero. By this we do not mean that biotin does not improve the qualities of the hair, but that for this vitamin to improve our hair we must ingest the biotin with biotin supplements or through the consumption of the aforementioned foods.




Everything you need to know about biotin

Are you worried about your health and want to keep fit? A healthy and balanced lifestyle is key to the quality of life you want and take care of your diet is the first step to have the energy and nutrients that your body needs every day. Substances such as biotin, for example, are essential to stay young and healthy.

Do you know if you need to integrate it into your diet? In this post we tell you everything you need to know about this vitamin.

Biotin Supplements




What is it?

Biotin is a group B vitamin. It is an indispensable element of enzymes that break down fats, carbohydrates and other substances. Biotin is also used for cell growth and the manufacture of fatty acids in our body.

Also, it is known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H and belongs to the group of water-soluble vitamins. That is, it dissolves in water and is not stored in the body. So you have to enter it every day through food.

What is biotin for?

Vitamin B7 is available in small amounts in a wide variety of foods. Like other vitamins it is indispensable for the correct functioning of the organism.

Taking supplements that contain biotin may be helpful to prevent imbalances or in case of deficiency of this vitamin.

Vitamin H has properties that help keep the body healthy. Contribute to:

  •     Cell growth
  •     Correct assimilation of nutrients (fats, sugars, etc.)
  •     Prevent metabolic diseases
  •     Prevent hair loss
  •     Prevent the symptoms of vitamin B7 deficiency

Taking biotin supplements orally may be necessary if your diet does not provide the correct levels of this vitamin or to prevent the symptoms of biotin deficiency associated with malnutrition, pregnancy, tube feeding for long periods, rapid weight loss
Symptoms of biotin deficiency

There are no specific tests to detect the lack of biotin in the body. So it is important to observe the symptoms caused by the lack of biotin in the body:

  •     Hair loss
  •     Rashes on the skin especially around the mouth, eyes, mouth and in the area of ​​the genitals.
  •     Neurological symptoms (depression, anxiety, tingling in arms and legs, hallucinations).
  • Collagen and biotin for hair and nails

Supplements with biotin for hair can be useful to stop hair loss if the causes are related to a deficit of this vitamin.

To prevent this type of problems and, in addition, keep skin and nails healthy and beautiful , you can associate the intake of biotin with a supplement based on hydrolyzed collagen. Collagen helps you prevent the signs of aging on your hair and ensures a better quality of life in general.

In this article you can discover more about the benefits of collagen for your health and well-being.


Biotin, contraindications

Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that we obtain thanks to the varied foods of a balanced diet.

If for some reason the organism does not receive the daily doses of biotin and registers low levels of this vitamin, the symptoms that we have seen previously take place.

Under normal health conditions, excess biotin in the body is resolved by evacuation through urine and sweat.

The intake of biotin has no contraindications and is not considered a toxic substance. However, it is advisable to follow the indications of the supplements to prevent possible side effects caused by overdose.

During pregnancy and lactation it is recommended to follow the instructions of a doctor before taking biotin or other food supplements.
Interactions with food and other supplements

Taking biotin is safe when you take the right doses. To know if you need to integrate this vitamin in your day to day you should consult your doctor who will also indicate doses and modalities.

So far, the case of interaction between raw egg whites and vitamin B7 is known. A substance present in egg whites reduces the biotin absorption capacity of the organism . If consumed for long periods, this substance can cause a deficit of vitamin H.

Some people wonder if biotin makes you fat . This vitamin is involved in the digestive processes and metabolism of fats and carbohydrates and helps regulate the metabolism when a biotin deficiency occurs. Because biotin does not make you fat, it improves the absorption of nutrients and prevents metabolic alterations.




Foods with biotin

Biotin belongs to the group B vitamins complex and is found in small doses in many foods. These are foods rich in biotin that can not be missed in a balanced diet:

  •     Whole grains
  •     Beef liver
  •     Yeast
  •     Eggs (avoid raw egg whites)
  •     Blue Fish
  •     Green peas
  •     Nuts

Following an active lifestyle and a balanced diet allows you to maintain correct levels of biotin in the body. If you detect some symptoms of vitamin B7 deficiency consult your doctor for a check and to know what is the most appropriate dose of biotin in your case.




What is biotin good for?

Biotin is a vitamin. Biotin is found in small amounts in various foods such as egg, milk or banana.

Biotin is commonly used to treat hair loss, scaly nails, nerve damage and many other conditions.
  Biotin Supplements

How effective is it?
Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database classifies the effectiveness, based on scientific evidence, according to the following scale: Effective, Probably Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Probably Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence for Make a Determination.

The classification of efficacy for this product is as follows:

Probably effective for ...
Lack of biotin Intake of biotin can help treat low levels of biotin in the blood. It can also prevent the marked decrease in biotin levels in the blood. Low levels of biotin in the blood can cause weakening of the hair, a rash around the eyes, nose and mouth. Other symptoms include depression, apathy, hallucinations and tingling in the arms and legs. Low levels of biotin can occur in pregnant women, who have been tube-fed for a long time, who are undernourished, have lost in a short time or with specific hereditary conditions. Smoking cigarettes could also cause low levels of biotin in the blood.

Possibly ineffective for ...
  • Eruptions on the skin of babies (seborrheic dermatitis). The intake of biotin does not seem to diminish the rash in babies.
  • Insufficient evidence to make a determination to ...
  • Hair loss. The intake of biotin and zinc along with the application of steroid cream on the skin could help to reduce hair loss.
  • Scaly nails Biotin may increase thickening of the nails of the hands and d feet in people with scaly nails.
  • Diabetes. Some preliminary research shows that the intake of biotin with chromium could lower blood sugar in people with diabetes. However, the intake of biotin alone does not seem to improve blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
  • Diabetic nervous pain. Preliminary research shows that ingesting biotin or receiving an injection may decrease nerve pain in the legs of people with diabetes.
  • Muscle cramps. Dialysed people tend to suffer from muscle cramps. Preliminary research shows that biotin intake could reduce muscle cramps in these people.

Other conditions
More evidence is needed to approve the coconut for these uses.

How does it work?

Biotin is an important component of enzymes in the body that break down certain substances such as fats, carbohydrates and others.

There is no good laboratory test to detect biotin deficiency, so this disorder is usually identified by its symptoms, which include: hair loss (often with loss of color), and red and scaly rashes around the eyes , nose and mouth. Symptoms of the nervous system include depression, tiredness, hallucinations and tingling in the arms and legs. There is some evidence that suffering from diabetes could result in biotin deficiency.

Is there concern for the safety of its use?
Biotin PROBALLLY SAFE for most people if taken properly or when applied to the skin in the form of cosmetic products containing 0.0001% to 0.6% biotin. Biotin is well tolerated when used in the recommended dosage. IT IS POSSIBLY SAFE when administered as an injection.

Special warnings and precautions:
Pregnancy and lactation: Biotin is POSSIBLY SAFE during pregnancy when used in recommended amounts during pregnancy and lactation.

Children: Biotin IS POSSIBLY SAFE when properly ingested.

A hereditary condition in which biotin (lack of biotinidase): People with this condition need to consume more biotin.

Renal dialysis: Dialysed people may need more biotin. Talk to your health care provider.

Smoking: People who smoke may have low levels of biotin in their blood and may need biotin supplements.

Laboratory tests: The intake of biotin supplements could interfere with the results of various laboratory tests that analyze the blood. Biotin can generate incorrectly high or incorrectly low test results. This could lead to incorrect detection of diagnoses or even not detect diagnostics. Check with your doctor if you take biotin supplements, especially if laboratory tests are to be performed.

Are there interactions with medications?
  • Minors
  • Pay attention to this combination
  • Medicines modified by the liver



Saturday, December 1, 2018

HIV self-test

The test for self-diagnosis of HIV can be purchased in pharmacies without the need for a prescription (January 2018).
Home HIV Test


It is estimated that currently, in Spain, between 140,000 and 145,000 people live with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and, of these, one in five (18%) is not diagnosed. The Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Control of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections considers the promotion of early diagnosis of HIV a priority, in order to reduce the proportion of undiagnosed persons.

The early diagnosis of HIV infection leads to benefits for the affected person, who can initiate early treatment, when their immune status would be less affected, and also brings benefits to the community since the person can take preventive measures to prevent its transmission to other people.

In December 2017, the legislation on health products was modified, eliminating the need for prescription for the sale of HIV self-diagnosis products (Royal Decree 1083/2017). Since January 22, 2018 the self-diagnosis test (Autotest HIV) can be purchased freely in pharmacies.

You can get an HIV test at your Health Center

The HIV test can be performed free of charge and confidentially, within the framework of the health system, by the Primary Care Physician at your Health Center. Those people who, for whatever reason, choose not to see their doctor, can be tested in some NGOs or acquire HIV self-test exclusively through pharmacies (in office or online) to be tested at home.


Who should have an HIV test?

Anyone who wants to know their health status regarding HIV infection should be tested for HIV. The entire population should be tested at least once in their lives.

Although the performance of an HIV test is a voluntary act, there are certain cases in which it is advisable to carry out the same:

  • Have had sexual intercourse with penetration (anal or vaginal, or oral, especially if there was ejaculation) without a condom with a person with HIV infection or who does not know their serological status.
  • Have shared puncture material.
  • Having suffered from a sexually transmitted infection, tuberculosis or hepatitis.
  • Have a stable partner and want to stop using the condom with her.


Period Window

Before this test is done, a period of 3 months must have elapsed since the possible risk of HIV transmission. This term, called window period, is what is needed for the antibodies that the test detects to develop.

The test is very reliable, but if that period is not expected, it is not able to detect the antibodies because they would not have been produced yet. In that case the result could be a false negative, meaning that the person could have become infected and could, therefore, transmit the virus to other people. In this case, the test should be repeated after 3 months from the risk exposure to confirm the negative result.

Measures to prevent the transmission of HIV infection should always be adopted, but in this circumstance, in which the person could be infected, it is vital to do so until the negative result is confirmed.

What should I do in case of a positive result?

A positive result indicates a high probability of being infected if there has been a risky practice, but this result is not yet definitive. You must go to a health center (your Health Center, for example) to be able to carry out confirmation tests and, if necessary, receive medical advice on your new health status.

Also, you can contact some NGOs, which have Community Centers where you can receive support to deal with the new situation. Confirmation tests are not carried out in these centers.

Pharmaceutical action guide

In order to provide community pharmacists with the necessary knowledge regarding the self-diagnosis test for HIV, a Pharmaceutical Action Guide for the dispensing of medical devices for HIV self-diagnosis has been prepared. This guide will guide these professionals when answering the questions of potential users before the public dispensation of these products.

Valencian pharmacies already have HIV proof for sale

It is nothing more than a prick on a finger and, thanks to 35 euros and a drop of blood can be known in a matter of 15 minutes if our body is infected with the acquired immunodeficiency virus, HIV.

Valencian pharmacies already have HIV proof for sale


It is the new HIV self-diagnosis equipment that, since yesterday, has been available in pharmacies -also in Valencian pharmacies- . Its main advantage: that the test can be done at home, work or wherever we have decided to do it since it is not necessary, as up to now, the intervention of specialized personnel to get rid of doubts.

Thanks to this new tool, both health officials and associations that fight to eradicate HIV and AIDS, seek to provide facilities to bring out that bag of infected people who, however, do not know they are.

The Ministry of Health assures that they can be 18% of the total of seropositives in Spain. That is, more than 21,000 people would be infected without knowing it, which makes it extremely difficult to cut the chain of new infections that continue to occur every year, at a rate of about 10 new cases a day.

Without the need to go to a health center or an association in which the rapid test is carried out, the team provides a guarantee of extra "anonymity", something that, for associations fighting against the virus, is "positive".

"We believe it will help because it will promote the standardization of the test, give autonomy to patients and offer a way to those people who do not have other resources to go to than the doctor in their town or do not want to do it because of the stigma that still talk about HIV and AIDS », they explained.

The Ministry of Health in December amended the regulations to facilitate that this test (similar in operation to a pregnancy test) could be sold without the need for a prescription directly in pharmacies. It is from this week when the offices that have been interested in the product will receive it.

In C. Valenciana there are still few pharmacies that already have the equipment. The pharmacy 24 hours of Paseo Germanías, 15 of Gandia was yesterday one of those who already had this self-diagnostic equipment that includes "in addition to detailed explanations to a phone number of the State AIDS Coordinator (Cesida) to call if it is positive know what to do », explained yesterday from the pharmacy.

In this office still do not know what output will have the product but yesterday "there were people who asked after hearing the news in the media" so, it will be "a matter of time to claim it because it is a way to leave doubts without having to comment to nobody, "they added.

It is not useful in the "day after"

The reliability of the test (the probability of an infected person obtaining a positive result) is 99.5% . However, the test, like the classic tests, is incapable of detecting an infection just after having a risky sexual relationship.

Thus, in the negative results will have to take into account the concept of "window period", that is, the time from which the body has been in contact with the virus and has been infected until this infection is detectable.

As recalled yesterday from the Ministry of Health, from exposure to the virus until the body generates detectable antibodies spend between 2 and 8 weeks "and almost all people have generated them at 3 months of risk practice."

That is why it is not useful for the "day after" and, for people who have "a routine of risky sexual practices, it is recommended to repeat the test -this self-diagnosis or any other- every three months as this will cover everything the spectre".

If the result of the test is positive, a laboratory check "made by specialists" is always necessary . They will determine the treatment to start. The antiretrovirals reduce the burden of the virus containing the development of associated diseases and causing patients to reach an undetectable state of charge in which they do not develop the disease and can not spread the virus.

The test to know if you are infected with HIV goes on sale in pharmacy

It is fast and, above all, intimate. From this week, people who want to know if they are infected or not by the HIV virus can do so at home, after buying a kit that is purchased at pharmacies. In just 20 minutes you will know it with a reliability of 99.5%. The price of a unit of the self-diagnostic test is 29 euros. No medical prescription is required.

The test to know if you are infected with HIV goes on sale in pharmacy



The main objective of the implementation of this HIV self - test is to increase the early diagnosis of this virus to reduce the number of people who are undiagnosed and who have a late diagnosis. In Spain it is estimated that there are currently between 140,000 and 145,000 people infected with HIV, of which one in 5 (18%) are not diagnosed. Late diagnosis (46%) increases morbidity and decreases the response to treatment, reports the department headed by Minister Dolors Montserrat.

In Spain it is estimated that there are currently between 140,000 and 145,000 people infected with HIV

But, how does this kit work? On the website of the Ministry of Health, answers are given to questions that citizens may ask themselves. Here we reproduce some:

What is HIV self-testing?

It is a screening test for HIV infection in which the same person who takes the test collects the blood or saliva sample and interprets the test result. Obtaining the test result is immediate (usually in less than 20 minutes), it is not necessary to send the test to any laboratory to obtain the result.

Is it a reliable test?

The sensitivity is 99.5%, (probability that a subject infected with HIV has a positive result in the test) and the specificity is 99.9% (probability that a subject with a negative test does not have the infection) .

What is the window period?

It is the time elapsed between the infection and the appearance of detectable antibodies. During the same test can give a negative result, even if the person has been infected. Generally the body takes between 2 and 8 weeks after the infection to develop detectable antibodies, and almost all people have generated them after 3 months of risk. In this circumstance the person could transmit the infection, so it is recommended to take preventive measures and use the condom in sexual relations. To rule out this situation, the HIV test must be repeated after three months.

What should I do after a positive result?

Go to a health center so that you can perform the confirmatory laboratory tests and if necessary to receive medical advice on your new state of health. Also, you can go to many NGOs, which have Community Centers where you can receive support to face your new situation. In these centers usually do not make confirmatory tests

Why is this test not useful?

To detect a possible HIV infection immediately after maintaining a risky sexual relationship. Neither to decide whether to use a condom in a sexual relationship. Neither to detect other STIs, such as hepatitis, syphilis, gonorrhea or chlamydia or to make changes in the treatment of a person already diagnosed.





Detecting HIV, without leaving home

Today is Friday of premiere. What movies come out this weekend? No. It's not about that. It is a different premiere. A new test for HIV was released a few months ago. Approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and the EMA (European Medicines Agency), this test consists of analyzing a saliva sample, with reliable results in 99% at 20 minutes . And what is the revolutionary of this test?

Detecting HIV, without leaving home



What seemed like a new weapon for the early detection of HIV infection has generated much controversy. Not only do they see it as a quick and effective tool, but it has also triggered a lot of criticism.

It is undeniable that the test is faster than the conventional analytical that was done to detect HIV. The results are ready in just 20 minutes. In addition, it is a very non-invasive method; there is no need to draw blood, but a swab is used to rub the gums, and that sample is enough to make the diagnosis.

It is sold in many pharmacies in our country and it also exists in some health centers. The attractiveness of this test is that it can be done at home , and that eliminates one of the main disadvantages of the conventional test: many people do not perform the test because they feel that when they go to a center to take the test they are being judged , carrying the stigma of AIDS that remains very present in society. It is not enough to say "it's another infection". Therefore, having a test that one can perform at home, there is no fear of criticism or uncomfortable glances , or the feeling of being unveiling our private life. It's just as simple as a pregnancy test.



This last statement has raised blisters. Some say that pregnancy should not be compared with HIV infection. Pregnancy is not a disease. But in both cases, early diagnosis can be the difference between a healthy pregnancy with all the controls done regularly (or a follow-up and early treatment of HIV) or a "surprise" pregnancy, with possible risks for the fetus and the mother for not perform the usual tests (or uncontrolled progression of the disease by HIV).

In addition, no medical staff is needed to perform the test, which lowers costs. Nor do we need a laboratory or cutting-edge technology; It would be an ideal test for those countries that do not have the resources to maintain such facilities. It generalizes the detection of the infection: it is useful to know quickly if a population of which we do not have data or a population of risk are infected or not.

Unfortunately, this test is not a panacea . Many point out that the test eliminates a fundamental point of HIV detection: counseling by health personnel . When performing the test at home, you know if you are infected or not, but many do not know very well what to do next. Whether you are infected or not, the fact of conducting the test indicates that you have doubts about it, and perhaps a doctor can guide us to preventive measures that we did not know or to a specialized unit that can prescribe the appropriate treatment as quickly as possible. A doctor can answer all the doubts that arise when knowing the infection. And you can also raise others that may be directing the treatment. These health tips are almost as important as the performance of the test .

Numerous potential patients are going to be "diagnosed" in their own homes. When the conventional test is performed in a hospital or health center, there is a consensual protocol on what to do with a positive result. They include the additional tests that must be performed, to the treatments that must be prescribed for each individual case. From the point of view of monitoring the health of the general population, these "home" diagnoses will disappear from the statistics and we will not know for sure what decision the patient has made. Will you go to the doctor? Will you decide to hide it from your family? Will it take any action to avoid possible infections? The possibilities are endless; Every person is a world. And this does not end there: there is fear that this test will be used to control certain sectors of the population. It has been suggested that this test could be used by procurers and managers of brothels to control even more the prostitutes and thus ask for more money for those who have a negative test.



The company that has patented the product in the United States (USA), Orasure, sells the "Oraquick" test on the Internet at the price of $ 39.99, with US distribution only. In Spain, in some centers the realization is free, while in others it is sold at € 5 (in pharmacies in Valladolid), and in private centers it costs up to € 50, including medical advice.

Only a few months have passed since this test has taken to the streets; It is still too early to know if it really represents a real change in the detection of HIV. The real problem in Spain is that most new cases detected have been diagnosed in fairly advanced stages, which reduces life expectancy and treatment is not as effective in limiting the progression of the disease. Perhaps the new test makes the diagnosis more accessible and the fear of "knowing" disappears, allowing an early diagnosis.

Rapid HIV screening test

What is HIV?

The human immunodeficiency virus ( HIV ) destroys the defenses of our body and causes us to suffer infections, tumors and other diseases. AIDS is the most serious phase of HIV infection.

Rapid HIV screening test



It is estimated that 20% of people infected with HIV do not know their seropositivity.

The early diagnosis of the infection allows to improve the effectiveness of the treatment, to keep the disease under control and to enjoy a good quality of life. In addition, people infected with HIV who do not know it can transmit the virus to others if they do not take preventive measures.

What is the HIV Rapid Test?

It is a test that detects the presence of antibodies against the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

It consists of a small prick on the finger to get a few drops of blood that come in contact with a test strip.

The result is obtained in approximately 20 minutes and lets you know, with a reliability close to one hundred percent, whether or not you have the virus.

Who should get tested for HIV?

You can take the test if you are over 16 and consider that you have been exposed to any of these risky behaviors:

    you have had vaginal, anal or oral sex without a condom with a person who has HIV or whose status you do not know about HIV
    you have shared syringes or other necessary tools for the injection of drugs (syringes, needles, spoons, filters ...)

For the test result to be reliable, the window period must have passed , which is the time it takes for the body to generate the antibodies that the test detects. This period is at least three months from the risk practice. If the test is done before three months, it must be repeated after that time.

IF YOU HAVE HAD A RISK PRACTICE, MAKE YOUR HIV TEST.

Where can you get the HIV Rapid Test?

On December 1, 2010 began a program of early detection of HIV launched by the Ministry of Health of the Board of Castilla y León and the Council of Professional Associations of Pharmacists of Castilla y León that aims to improve the accessibility of the population of risk of testing for HIV. At the moment, you can take the test in 16 pharmacies in the Community.

In Valladolid you can find three pharmacy offices:


The tests will always be done respecting confidentiality and anonymity , so no personal data is taken.

The price of each test is $ 5.

In addition to performing the test at the pharmacy they will provide information and preventive advice on HIV / AIDS.