Biotin           

Essential for

the release of energy from food
protein metabolism
the manufacture of genetic material
healthy hair
a healthy immune system

Absorption and metabolism

Biotin is absorbed from food and from intestinal bacteria.

Deficiency

Biotin deficiency leads to hair loss, dermatitis, anemia, muscle pain, loss of appetite, lethargy, depression, hallucinations and lowered immunity.

Sources

Liver, kidney, brewer's yeast, egg yolks, fish, nuts, oatmeal and beans are all good sources of biotin.

Daily recommended dietary intakes

The adequate intake for biotin is set at 30 mcg per day. This increases to 35 mcg per day for breastfeeding women.

Toxic effects of excess intake

No toxic effects have been reported.

Interactions

Biotin works closely with pantothenic acid, folic acid and vitamin B12. Sulfa drugs, estrogen and alcohol raise biotin requirements. Long-term use of antibiotics can reduce the manufacture of biotin in the intestines. Prolonged use of anticonvulsant drugs may lead to biotin deficiency.

Therapeutic uses of supplements

Biotin supplements are used to treat biotin deficiency; dermatitis and other skin disorders; hair problems; to improve blood sugar control and treat neuropathy in diabetes; to improve fat metabolism in weight loss programs; and to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Biotin Categories:

Biotin
Biotin health
Biotin absorption
Biotin deficiency
Biotin sources
Biotin recommended daily
Biotin supplements
Biotin interactions

Other Vitamins:

Vitamin A
Carotenes
Beta carotene
Lycopene
Lutein
Thiamin
Riboflavin
Niacin
Vitamin B6
Folate
Vitamin B12
Biotin
Pantothenic acid
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Vitamin E
Vitamin K