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Grandma's Biotin a B Vitamin Guide
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Biotin is a B Vitamin that aids in cell growth; in fatty acid production, in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, and in the utilization of the other B-complex vitamins.
Sufficient quantities of this B vitamin are needed for healthy hair and skin. One hundred milligrams of biotin daily may prevent hair loss in some men.
Biotin also promotes healthy sweat glands, nerve tissue, and bone marrow. In addition, it helps to relieve muscle pain.
In infants, a condition called seborrheic dermatitis, or "cradle cap," which is characterized by a dry, scaly scalp, may occur as a result of biotin deficiency. In adults, deficiency of this B vitamin is rare because it can be produced in the intestines from foods such as those mentioned below.
However, if a deficiency does occur, it can cause:
- anemia
- depression
- hair loss
- high blood sugar
- inflammation of pallor of the skin and mucous membranes
- insomnia
- loss of appetite
- muscular pain
- nausea
- soreness of the tongue
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Natural Sources of Biotin
Biotin if found in Foods:
- brewer's yeast
- cooked egg yolks
- meat
- milk
- poultry
- saltwater fish
- soybeans
- whole grains
Comments
Raw egg whites contain a protein called avidin, which combines with biotin in the intestinal tract and depletes the body of this needed nutrient.
Fats and oils that have been subjected to heat or exposed to the air for any length of time inhibit biotin absorption. Antibiotics, sulfa drugs, and saccharin also threaten the availability of biotin.
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