The human body which is composed of cells requires nourishment not only for proper functioning but also for its stronger and healthy structure. One of the nutrients such as vitamins that is significantly beneficial to the structure of the body’s cells is biotin. Though humans need biotin in tiny amounts only, it is still important that this vitamin is within normal level.

Biotin is a component of the water soluble viatmin B complex playing a part in the many biologic processes of the body. It is involved in the transfer of carbon dioxide from one compound to another thus helpful in metabolizing macronutrients into simplier substances to be circulated for cellular use. Biotin is also responsible for the immediate regeneration of fast-growing cells such as the hair, skin and nails and the proper restoration of blood cells and bone marrow cells. As a matter of fact, biotin is a commercially known vitamin for the health and beauty of the skin, hair and nails. Biotin is said to help avoid splitting of hair and thinning or splitting of nails. It is known that biotin increases hair and nail thickness up to 25 %. It also increases the elasticity of the cortex of the hair and thickens the hair cuticle thus preventing damage. It also promotes hair growth and not to mention, gives the skin a smooth and youthful glow.

Now, where can we get biotin? Biotin is naturally produced in the lower GI tract. Though the amount produced and its bioavailability are unknown, the amount that it synthesizes is considered to be enough for the body’s daily need as long as there are no gastric or intestinal disease condition present. Take into account that the human body does not produce this beneficial vitamin but the bacteria in the GI tract do. That is why biotin is considered as an essential nutrient which are nutrients that must be supplied by food or supplements. The recommended daily allowance of biotin is 30 mcg. This is way too low IMO.

Production of biotin by the gut bacteria isaltered during antibitoic use. Antibiotics are known to decrease the number of biotin-producing bacteria in the stomach and intestines. This case may require an increase demand of biotin supply from food or supplements. In addition, individuals receiving long-term parenteral feeding or nutrition are also prone to biotin deficiency, therefore their feeding mixtures must have adequate biotin.

Biotin is widely available in commonly eaten foods. The richest sources are egg yolks, peanut butter, yeast and organ meats such as liver and kidneys. Cereals, milk, fruits and vegetables are also good sources of biotin. True biotin deficiency is very rare, as this vitamin is fairly bioavailable in foods and is created by bacteria living in the digestive tract.

When experimentally induced, symptoms of biotin deficiency include a scaly red skin rash, hair loss, thinning of the eye brows and eye lashes, decreased appetite, glossitis and sometimes depression. This biotin deficiency has been artificially produced by consumption of large amount of Avidin, a protein in raw egg white that binds to biotin thus preventing absorption. Avidin is denatured by heat, therefore properly cooked egg whites pose no problem in relation to biotin status of the body.

Biotin is available in capsule and tablet forms at your local or internet vitamin store. Look for quality biotin supplements in dosages of 1000, 2000, and 5000 micrograms to ensure you obtain enough biotin to maintain healthy skin, hair, and nails.

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Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: Biotin vitamins, Fight Hair loss, Boost Skin Health, Improve Nail Luster