Biotin, a B vitamin, is an essential nutrient that is naturally present in some foods and available as a dietary supplement. This water-soluble vitamin is a cofactor for five carboxylases (propionyl-CoA carboxylase, pyruvate carboxylase, methylcrotonyl-CoA carboxylase [MCC], acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1, and acetyl-CoA carboxylase 2) that catalyze critical steps in the metabolism of fatty acids, glucose, and amino acids. Biotin also plays key roles in histone modifications, gene regulation (by modifying the activity of transcription factors), and cell signaling.
What are some health benefits of biotin?
Cardioprotective – One of the major vitamin B7 benefits is to protect the heart from possible problems. Consumption of biotin in an adequate quantity can stimulate the blood flow inside the heart. Biotin helps in increasing the high-density lipoprotein and decreasing the low-density lipoprotein which reduces heart risks.
Boost immunity – Foods high in biotin are needed for the desired generation of white blood cells which are seen as linked to boosting the immunity power of the body. This is also one of the vitamin B7 biotin benefits that are needed by your body.
Promotes brain function – Biotin benefits the health of the nervous system because of its role in nerve signaling and neurotransmitter activity. B vitamins influence memory functions and defend against age-related neurodegenerative disorders.
Diabetic blood sugar control – Biotin benefits blood glucose levels because it facilitates the activity of insulin, which is the crucial hormone needed to bring blood sugar back to a balanced state. Biotin decreases the expression of enzymes that stimulate glucose production by the liver, therefore less sugar is released into the bloodstream.
Anti-inflammatory – The anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties of biotin minimize the various problems and issues related to inflammation. It also prevents the re-occurrence of allergies and inflammation by targeting the root cause of the problem with its benefits.
Weight loss –High doses of biotin may help people with high triglycerides, blood glucose levels, and insulin insensitivity. Enzymes involved in making fat, making glucose, and breaking down amino acids require biotin.
What are some causes of biotin deficiency?
• Drugs – some medications that prevent your body from absorbing the right number of vitamins.
• Intestinal problems that may cause poor absorption of nutrients.
• Poor dietary source.
• Genetic disorders
What are the side effects?
Biotin supplement is relatively safe and tolerable even in very high doses. Excessive high amounts of biotin can lead to side effects such as insomnia or trouble sleeping, acne, digestive upset, skin rashes, interference with laboratory test results, excessive thirst, and kidney problems.
What are some drug interactions?
Long-term use of anticonvulsant medications like carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, and combinations of these medications may deplete biotin in the body. If you are taking any of these medications, your healthcare provider may recommend taking a biotin-containing supplement like a multivitamin.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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