Biotin
Biotin metabolizes fats, proteins and carbohydrates, helps in the transfer of carbon dioxide and assists in various metabolic chemical conversions.
Most adult vitamins now contain biotin but if you feel you get enough in your diet, it is best to steer clear of it. It can cause involuntary twitching in the legs while at rest - very uncomfortable, but further threats are not known. This is a rare occurrence, but should it happen to you, it is best to stop taking supplements that contain biotin.
Food you get biotin in include cheese, beef liver, cauliflower, eggs, mushrooms, chicken breast, salmon and spinach.
Biotin is widely distributed in natural foodstuffs. However, the absolute amounts of biotin in foodstuffs is relatively low when compared with the other B vitamins. Some of the better food sources of biotin, are egg yolk, liver, kidney, pancreas, milk, soya and barley. Brewer's yeast, which is used as a nutritional supplement, is one of the richest sources of biotin, as well as the other B complex vitamins.
From PDR Health: It has been claimed that supplemental biotin can reverse loss and graying of hair. In fact, biotin and pantothenic acid are widely used in cosmetic hair products. Except in cases of biotin deficiency, there appears to be no basis for this claim. There is a report, however, that severe hair loss secondary to biotin deficiency occurs in some patients receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Supplementation with 200 micrograms of biotin daily has resulted in gradual regrowth of healthy hair in some of these patients.
The suggested Daily Value for biotin is 300mcg for adults.
A Biotin Supplement is utilized to synthesize intracellular carboxylase enzymes and is essential for normal skin and hair growth. The various carboxylase enzymes are important for lipid metabolism and energy production (ATP) via synthesis of oxaloacetate. Alcohol decreases biotin status in the body.
Bioton can also be used to alleviate dry, itchy scalp, damaged hair and split ends. Biotin, Planthenol-3 and selected botanicals combined with 3 proteins help energize the scalp and promote natural and healthy looking hair with the use of Biotin Shampoo and Biotin Conditioner in addition to Hair, Skin and Nails Liquid.
See also, Vitamin H.
