Biotin
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is an essential nutrient that helps the body convert food into energy. It plays a crucial role in metabolizing fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, while also supporting healthy skin, hair, and nails. Although biotin deficiency is rare, supplements are often used to enhance hair and nail strength.
Description
- Individuals experiencing symptoms of biotin deficiency, like hair loss, skin rashes, or brittle nails.
- Those with conditions affecting nutrient absorption, such as Crohn’s disease or other gastrointestinal disorders.
- People on long-term anticonvulsant therapy, as some medications can reduce biotin levels.
- Pregnant women, as pregnancy can sometimes lead to lower biotin levels.
- Individuals following a diet that may lack sufficient biotin, like raw egg diets (raw egg whites contain a protein that binds biotin and prevents its absorption).
- Those with genetic conditions affecting biotin metabolism.
- Hair loss
- Red, scaly rash around eyes, nose, and mouth
- Brittle nails
- Neurological symptoms like depression, lethargy, and hallucinations
- Muscle aches and pains
- Skin infections
- Conjunctivitis
Foods high in biotin include egg yolks, nuts and seeds such as almonds, sunflower seeds, and peanuts, as well as liver and other organ meats. Whole grains and cereals, avocados, cauliflower, mushrooms, dairy products like milk and cheese, and salmon and other fatty fish are also good sources of biotin. These foods can help maintain adequate biotin levels in the body.
Biotin supplements can help improve hair health, strengthen nails, and enhance skin quality, especially in those with biotin deficiency. They also aid in metabolism, support nervous system function, and are important during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Additionally, biotin might help regulate blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
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