Biotin is a part of the vitamin B complex; but, surprisingly, it doesn’t get too much attention. Biotin plays a vital role in the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Biotin supplements assist in the treatment of a range of illnesses.
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| Structure of the Biotin Molecule |
The word biotin is derived from the word ‘bios’, which means life. This vitamin is present in practically all the foods. Additionally, it is also synthesized by the intestinal bacteria, provided that the digestive tract is healthy.
Biotin has a crucial part to play in the process of metabolism and it helps the body use glucose to generate energy. It is also necessary for the production of various enzymes.
Biotin Deficiency and Its Ill Effects
A severe deficiency of biotin is relatively rare. Our daily diet usually provides us with ample biotin. However, those who use antibiotics for log intervals or those who are on to anti-seizure medications, may develop a deficiency of the vitamin.
An insufficiency of the vitamin is seen as unhealthy nails and hair, brittle nails, hair loss, hair thinning and dry, lifeless hair.
Biotin Benefits
- Biotin promotes healthy hair and nails. It stimulates hair growth, checks hair thinning and hair loss and makes them luxuriant. It improves weak and brittle nails.
- Biotin helps your body to process fats, carbohydrates and proteins.
- The vitamin also enhances blood sugar control in diabetics. Biotin increases the body’s response to insulin, so that blood sugar levels stay low and do not fluctuate. It also protects against nerve damage that very commonly occurs in diabetics. It is also advocated in cases of candida albicans, where it slows the multiplication of the fungus.
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| Biotin for Healthy Hair |
Biotin for Hair: Benefits of Biotin Supplements
Biotin is very effective to mange hair loss that is linked to biotin deficiency. In fact, nutritionists and trichologists prescribe biotin supplements to make up for any deficiencies, particularly in individuals who are on to strong antibiotics or anti-epileptics. The vitamin repairs dry, scaly scalp and stimulates hair growth.
Furthermore, the market is flooded with a host of biotin hair products, biotin hair supplements and biotin shampoos.
Biotin Dosage for Health: Food Sources of Biotin
For healthy hair and nails, experts recommend a dose of 1000 mcg of biotin per day. In case o diabetics, it is prudent that you talk to your physician about the most appropriate dose to maintain normal serum glucose levels as well as to prevent diabetic neuropathy.
Liver, soy and its products, nuts, oatmeal, rice, barley, cauliflower, legumes and whole wheat are excellent sources of biotin. Overdose of Biotin is associated with slight diarrhea and gastrointestinal distress.
