Quick guide to Biotin
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- 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.
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.
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.