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Biotin
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Biotin, a water-soluble B vitamin, acts as a coenzyme in the metabolism of protein, fats, and carbohydrates.
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Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Brittle Nails | 2.5 mg daily | Biotin has been shown to improve nail firmness and thickness and to reduce splitting in several studies. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Pregnancy and Postpartum Support | Use a prenatal supplement that includes biotin | Biotin deficiency may occur in as many as 50% of pregnant women. A prenatal multiple vitamin and mineral formula that contains biotin may help prevent a deficiency. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Type 1 Diabetes | 16 mg daily | Biotin may improve glucose levels and reduce pain from diabetic nerve damage. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Type 2 Diabetes | 9 to 16 mg daily | Biotin may improve glucose levels and reduce pain from diabetic nerve damage. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Seborrheic Dermatitis | Refer to label instructions | Biotin injections either for the infant or the nursing mother may be an effective treatment for cradle cap. |
| ||
Also indexed as:
- B vitamins,
- biotin,
- vitamin B7,
- vitamin H
About this treatment
How to Use It
The ideal intake of biotin is unknown. However, the amount of biotin found in most diets, combined with intestinal production, appears to be adequate for preventing deficiency symptoms. Researchers have estimated that 30 mcg per day appears to be an adequate intake for adults. Typically, consumption from a Western diet has been estimated to be 30–70 mcg per day. Larger amounts of biotin (8–16 mg per day) may be supportive for people with diabetes by lowering blood glucose levels and by preventing diabetic neuropathy. Biotin in the amount of 2.5 mg per day strengthened the fingernails of two-thirds of a group of people with brittle nails, according to one clinical trial.
Where to Find It
Good dietary sources of biotin include organ meats, oatmeal, egg yolk, soy, mushrooms, bananas, peanuts, and brewer’s yeast. Bacteria in the intestine also produce significant amounts of biotin, but evidence is conflicting as to whether biotin produced by intestinal bacteria is present at a location or is in a form that permits significant absorption by the body.
Possible Deficiencies
Certain rare inborn diseases can leave people with depletion of biotin due to the inability to metabolize the vitamin normally. A dietary deficiency of biotin, however, is quite uncommon, even in those consuming a diet low in this B vitamin. Nonetheless, if someone eats large quantities of raw egg whites, a biotin deficiency can develop, because a protein in the raw egg white inhibits the absorption of biotin. Cooked eggs do not present this problem. Long-term antibiotic use can interfere with biotin production in the intestine and increase the risk of deficiency symptoms, such as dermatitis, depression, hair loss,anemia, and nausea. Long-term use of anti-seizure medications may also lead to biotin deficiency.Alcoholics and people with diseases of the stomach have been reported to show evidence of poor biotin status. However, the usefulness of biotin supplementation for these people remains unclear. In animals, and possibly in humans, biotin deficiency can cause birth defects. As biotin deficiency may occur in as many as 50% of pregnant women, it seems reasonable to use a prenatal multiple vitamin and mineral formula that contains biotin.
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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