what are the benefits of biotin supplement

Full Answer

What you should know before taking biotin supplements?

• Biotin does help with hair growth as long as you have a biotin deficiency.
• Signs of a biotin deficiency include fatigue, loss of hair, and brittle nails.
• Chat with your doctor about the right dosage, which is typically around 5 mg per day.
• Visit Insider's Health Reference library for more advice.

Who should take biotin supplements?

Your dose needs may be different:

• if you have kidney disease;
• if you have had stomach surgery; or
• if you smoke.

Is it safe to take biotin supplements?

Research suggests that consuming biotin supplements carries very little risk, even in high dosages. As a B vitamin, biotin is water-soluble (dissolves in water), meaning that it is nearly impossible to overdose on it because your body will flush out any excess through urination.

What are the health benefits of biotin?

• Adults over the age of 19 should take 30 micrograms
• Pregnant women should take 30 milligrams *
• Women who are nursing should take 25 milligrams *
• Adolescents from the ages 13-18 should take 25 micrograms
• Children ages 4-13 should take 12-20 micrograms
• Infants aged 7 months to 3 years of age should take 6-8 micrograms

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Is it good to take biotin everyday?

Takeaway. Your body makes enough biotin on its own through your dietary intake each day. Therefore, you shouldn't take biotin supplements unless directed by your doctor. There are some rare health conditions that can cause some people to need biotin supplements on a regular basis.

What does biotin do to your body?

Your body needs biotin to metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids, the building blocks of protein. Biotin is often recommended for strengthening hair and nails, and it's found in many cosmetic products for hair and skin. Like all B vitamins, it is a water soluble, meaning the body does not store it.

How much biotin should I take a day?

Biotin Recommended Dosage The National Institutes of Health recommends a biotin dose of 20 to 30 micrograms (mcg) per day for teenagers and adults to prevent biotin deficiency. Biotin is taken from the foods we eat by the microflora of the large intestine.

How much biotin should I take for hair growth?

2-5 milligramsMost of the websites touting biotin for hair growth recommend taking 2-5 milligrams (2,000-5,000 mcg) of biotin in supplement form each day, and many supplements are sold under the name Biotin 5000, indicating a 5000 mcg (5 mg) size.

Will biotin cause weight gain?

No, there is no evidence to suggest taking biotin supplements can lead to weight gain. In fact, biotin is sometimes touted as a weight-loss supplement. However, there is no research to confirm biotin has any effect on weight.

How do you know if biotin is working?

During the first couple of months of taking biotin, you may not notice any difference in your hair. It may grow at the same rate as it did before you started the vitamin. But, for many people, it begins to work around the third or fourth month, and that's when the results get encouraging.

What is the best time to take biotin?

morning mealThe most commonly recommended time slot to consume biotin supplements is with your morning meal. The water-soluble nature of biotin will ensure that your body is absorbing it with the other nutrients in your meal.

When should you take biotin morning or night?

The best time to take biotin is in the morning, with a full glass of water. Biotin is best taken on an empty stomach 1 hour before eating or 2 hours after your last meal. You should aim to take biotin at the same time each day to stay on track.

Does biotin grow hair faster?

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, stimulates keratin production in hair and can increase the rate of follicle growth.

Does biotin thicken hair?

Strengthens and thickens: Biotin "is well known for its positive effects on hair including growing stronger thicker strands," says Friese. Protects: Because biotin strengthens hair, it is less likely to break off at the ends, promoting and protecting length, explains Friese.

How long does it take for biotin to start working?

about three to four monthsAfter starting a biotin supplement routine, you can expect to start seeing a difference in about three to four months. Results may vary depending on the amount and type of biotin you're taking. You can find biotin at most drug stores and in any vitamin shop.

Can I take biotin and multivitamin together?

Biotin is generally safe to combine with most vitamins; however, there's little research to support its use if you don't have a deficiency.

What are the benefits of B vitamins for diabetics?

In addition, the B vitamins promote healthy brain function — which helps manage neurological symptoms of diabetes like neuropathy (damage or dysfunction of a nerve).

What is the B7 vitamin?

In this Article. Biotin — also known as vitamin B7 — is a B-complex vitamin that helps your body break down food into valuable energy. While you can maintain a healthy biotin level by eating meat, eggs, fish, seeds, nuts, and some vegetables, many people choose to consume it in a daily supplement. The name “biotin” comes from ...

What is biotin good for?

As a B vitamin, biotin offers a variety of health benefits. It can help maintain the health of your nervous system, liver, eyes, hair, and skin.

What foods can you take to get biotin?

While you can maintain a healthy biotin level by eating meat, eggs, fish, seeds, nuts, and some vegetables, many people choose to consume it in a daily supplement. The name “biotin” comes from the Greek word “biotos,” which means “sustenance” or “life-giving.”. As a B vitamin, biotin offers a variety of health benefits.

Is biotin good for pregnancy?

Biotin is also necessary for a healthy pregnancy. Studies show that a biotin deficiency — which is fairly common among women who are pregnant — can lead to health issues in developing babies. Because of this, women who are pregnant should regularly eat biotin-rich foods and should also consider taking biotin supplements.

Does biotin help with hair loss?

Biotin is well known for its positive effects on hair. Research shows that biotin improves hair health — including shine, volume, and scalp coverage in women who experience thinning hair.

Can you overdose on biotin?

As a B vitamin, biotin is water-soluble (dissolves in water), meaning that it is nearly impossible to overdose on it because your body will flush out any excess through urination. However, it is possible to experience some adverse effects from consuming biotin. Continued. Amounts and Dosage.

What is biotin in the body?

What is biotin? Also known as vitamin H, biotin is one of the B complex vitamins that help the body convert food into energy. The word “biotin” comes from the ancient Greek word “biotos,” which means “life” or “sustenance.”. B vitamins, and specifically biotin, help keep your skin, hair, eyes, liver, and nervous system healthy.

Why is biotin ineffective?

Because food-processing techniques like cooking can render biotin ineffective, raw or less-processed versions of these foods contain more active biotin. It’s always best to get nutrients from natural sources. If you’re unable to get enough biotin naturally, a supplement may be suggested by your doctor.

Why is biotin important during pregnancy?

during pregnancy, as it’s important for embryonic growth. Most people get the biotin they need from eating a healthy diet, but there have been many claims that getting more biotin can regulate your blood sugar, promote healthy hair, skin, and nails, and help pregnant moms have healthier babies.

What foods contain biotin?

Biotin can also be found in a number of foods, including: 1 egg yolk 2 organ meats (liver, kidney) 3 nuts, like almonds, peanuts, pecans, and walnuts 4 nut butters 5 soybeans and other legumes 6 whole grains and cereals 7 cauliflower 8 bananas 9 mushrooms

What to do if you can't get enough biotin?

If you’re unable to get enough biotin naturally, a supplement may be suggested by your doctor. Remember that supplements aren’t monitored by the FDA for safety, purity, dose, or quality, so research your brands before you buy.

Is biotin good for hair?

While biotin is necessary for normal body function, and supplements may help pregnant women and some people with diabetes, there still isn’t enough data available to support supplementation or claims about healthy hair, skin, or nails.

Can biotin help with diabetes?

Some research, including this animal study, suggests that people with type 2 diabetes may benefit from taking biotin supplements to help regulate blood glucose levels. The research so far isn’t conclusive, however.

Benefits of biotin

Biotin plays an important role in converting carbohydrates, fats and proteins into energy. It also helps your body’s cells function well. Biotin is essential, which means you can’t live without it.

Biotin supplement side effects

Biotin supplements have few side effects if you take them as directed. “Biotin supplements and B-complex vitamins are safe for most people, though they may cause a slightly upset stomach,” Barth says.

A healthy lifestyle builds natural beauty

You can enhance your hair, skin and nail health even without a supplement. A balanced diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables and protein is important for all three. Drink plenty of water, too.

What is the function of biotin?

One of biotin's primary functions is its ability to metabolize carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. This vitamin also functions as a coenzyme and aids in synthesizing fatty acids and certain amino acids. Without the B complex vitamins, your body can't use the energy that your body consumes.

What is the role of biotin in the nervous system?

Along with the other B complex vitamins, biotin keeps your nervous system in working order by assisting with neurotransmitter activity and helping with nerve signals. Together, B vitamins also protect your brain, improve your memory, and help form a defense against cognitive issues and neurodegenerative disorders.

What is biotin supplement?

This vitamin also has a key role in alleviating muscle and joint inflammation, aches, and pains. If you continually experience joint pain or struggle with muscle strength, a biotin supplement might be just what you need to help your tissues rebuild. 5. Assists With Cell Growth.

How does biotin affect blood sugar?

Studies have shown that this B complex vitamin has the power to lower blood glucose levels in people with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes by stimulating the secretion of insulin.

What is the best vitamin for muscle repair?

Rebuilds Tissues. Neither muscle nor tissue lasts forever, and your body relies on B vitamins to help rebuild after tissues break down or muscles sustain damage. Biotin is one of the components necessary for rebuilding muscle strength and helping tissues grow.

Why is biotin important for pregnant women?

Since biotin is necessary for many bodily functions , it's especially important for pregnant women supporting a new life. In fact, a recent study shows that many pregnant women don't receive enough biotin naturally on a daily basis. Since this has led to serious birth defects, many doctors recommend that pregnant women supplement their regular healthy diets with additional biotin. For many pregnant women, taking additional biotin is as important as taking folic acid for ensuring baby health, encouraging fetal development, and minimizing pregnancy complications.

How much does biotin help with nail strength?

Studies have shown that those who take a biotin supplement can thicken their nails by up to 25 percent and decrease the amount of nail splitting and breakage they endure. Trial studies also have shown that an impressive 91 percent of participants experience improved nail strength when taking a biotin supplement. 4.

What is biotin (Vitamin H)?

Biotin, also known as vitamin H, is a B-complex vitamin. All B vitamins collaborate to assist the body in converting food ( carbohydrates) into energy (glucose).

Is biotin really necessary?

Biotin is essential for the conversion of certain nutrients into energy by your cells. It’s also important in hair, skin, and nail health. Hair loss or a scaly red rash might occur if you don’t get enough biotin. A deficiency is nevertheless uncommon.

Biotin Benefits (Vitamin H Benefits)

Biotin is one of nature’s most powerful nutrients. It’s been shown to improve health in a variety of ways, including skin, hair, nails… Regular ingestion of biotin from biotin-rich foods helps the body obtain the correct amount of biotin for development.

Biotin Rich Foods

Vitamin H or Biotin is considered vital for the overall health of the body. It’s critical to give your body with enough biotin through food and supplements. Oral supplements may not be ideal since nutritional absorption from tablets is limited, and it’s also influenced by a variety of variables like age, lifestyle, and underlying health conditions.

What Are the Causes Of Biotin Deficiency?

Biotin deficiency is relatively uncommon, but it can happen as a result of:

Biotin Deficiency

Biotin is not absorbed through the skin. To avoid unpleasant symptoms of biotin deficiency, IV therapy should be used to quickly replenish normal levels of biotin in the blood.

Bottom Line

Biotin is required for proper body function, and supplements might assist pregnant women and persons with diabetes. There isn’t enough evidence to back up claims about healthy hair, skin problems, or nails despite the fact that biotin is required for normal body function and supplements may help pregnant women and certain individuals with diabetes.

What is biotin good for?

As has been alluded to, biotin benefits include the strengthening of hair, nails, and skin. If you want clear and healthy skin, lustrous hair, and strong nails, then this is the vitamin you want to get more of. Biotin supplement benefits go beyond just looking great, however. Biotin helps your body break down carbs, fats, and proteins, ...

Is it hard to get biotin?

Getting biotin through superfoods is a great idea - but sometimes it’s hard to work all those foods into your daily diet. Sometimes you might just want a biotin boost, to look great through hair and skincare, and weight loss. Or maybe you’re worried about your biotin levels during pregnancy.

Is biotin found in eggs?

Eggs aren’t the only source of biotin out there. A lot of what are classified as “superfoods” can also be great sources of biotin. These can include foods such as:

What is biotin used for?

As a supplement, biotin is sometimes used for hepatitis, brittle nails, neuropathy, and other conditions.

Is biotin a vitamin?

Biotin. Biotin is a coenzyme and a B vitamin. It is also known as vitamin H. Because biotin is present in so many different kinds of foods, deficiency is rare. As a supplement, biotin is sometimes used for hepatitis, brittle nails, neuropathy, and other conditions.

Can you give biotin to a child?

If you have any medical conditions -- or are pregnant or breastfeeding -- check with a doctor before using biotin supplements. Don't give biotin to a child unless a pediatrician recommends it. Interactions. If you take any drugs regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using biotin supplements.

Do you need biotin supplements?

However, most people don't need biotin supplements. We get biotin in foods naturally. Our bodies also recycle the biotin we've already used. Genuine biotin deficiency is quite rare. Pregnant women sometimes have low levels of biotin, so some take biotin supplements. The benefits and risks aren't clear.

Does biotin help with nails?

Some preliminary evidence suggests that biotin might help strengthen brittle nails. Other uses of biotin -- for conditions like cradle cap, hepatitis, hair loss, and depression -- are unsupported or untested. However, most people don't need biotin supplements. We get biotin in foods naturally.

Does eating raw egg whites lower biotin?

Some epilepsy drugs may decrease biotin absorption from food. A supplement, lipoic acid, may also increase the need for biotin. Eating raw egg whites on a regular basis can also lower biotin levels in the body.

Is biotin safe to take?

Getting this amount from diet, with or without supplements, should be enough to support good health. Depending on your case, your doctor might recommend a higher dose. Even at higher levels, biotin appears to be fairly safe. Researchers don't know at what dosage biotin might start to pose health risks.

What are the benefits of B7?

8 Incredible Benefits of Biotin (Vitamin B7) The health benefits of vitamin B7 or biotin include improved metabolism, tissue maintenance, healthy skin, and weight loss. It also provides relief from heart problems, alopecia, Parkinson’s disease, Rett syndrome, and vaginal candidiasis. It aids in the synthesis of vital components ...

What are the symptoms of biotin deficiency?

A deficiency of biotin manifests in a number of symptoms like fatigue, depression, pain in the muscles, hair loss, depression, and anemia. Apart from these, there are other indicating symptoms like a distinct loss of appetite, dermatitis, and the appearance of a dry scalp or dandruff.

Why is B7 needed?

Vitamin B7 , also known as biotin, is a catalyst for various metabolic reactions in the human body to extract energy. Due to its water solubility, this vitamin is regularly diminished and therefore needs replenishment. The lack of biotin from your normal diet may lead to a number of health disorders. It is necessary to include the recommended amount ...

Why is biotin important?

Protects Heart. Biotin is helpful for ensuring the proper functioning of the heart. It helps in reducing the level of cholesterol in the human body, which is a major cause of conditions like atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.

What fruits contain vitamin B7?

This is why a person that experiences dry scalp or hair loss might be suffering from a deficiency of vitamin B7 in their diet. Raspberries, avocados, and bananas are some fruits that contain vitamin B7. Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

What foods are good for biotin?

Biotin-rich foods include organ meats, cheese, and nuts. Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

Is biotin good for alopecia?

Adding to the already long list, biotin is also helpful in treating a number of diseases like alopecia, Parkinson’s disease, Rett syndrome, and vaginal candidiasis. Finally, it is a beneficial vitamin for the treatment of certain serious conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, Crohn’s disease, and peripheral neuropathy.

What is biotin in the body?

Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that cannot be synthesized in the human body, so it must be obtained from one ’s diet. This vitamin plays a vital role physiological metabolic functions.

How does biotin help myelin?

It is thought that biotin plays a role in its production by activating acetyl-CoA carboxylase, an enzyme involved in myelin synthesis. Recent research reveals that high doses of biotin support the health of myelin sheaths. 8. Supporting The Cardiovascular System.

Why do pregnant women have a biotin deficiency?

This is thought to occur because biotin breaks down faster in the body during pregnancy [5]. Biotin is also important for nursing mothers.

What is the role of biotin in the metabolism of nutrients?

Metabolism of Nutrients. Biotin acts as a coenzyme, which assists with the metabolism of fatty acids, amino acids, and glucosee [3], as well as assists with the metabolism of micronutrients and their conversion to energy .

What is the part of the nail that is under the cuticle?

The skin beneath the plate is the nail bed, and the skin that overlaps the base of the nail is the cuticle. The part of the nail that is hidden under the cuticle is the matrix. Finger and toe nails grow from the matrix, where new cells push out the older cells as they grow. If your nails are brittle and break easily, you may need to boost your biotin intake with a supplement. In one study, biotin was shown to strengthen nails by 25 percent over a period of six months [7].

Why is biotin important for breastfeeding?

Because it is used to metabolize carbohydrates, fats and proteins, as well as convert food into energy, mothers need plenty of it to keep them and their baby healthy. When one is breast-feeding, they pass biotin to their infant through breast milk.

What vitamins help with joint pain?

When tissue or muscle becomes damaged, biotin, along with other B vitamins, help with repairs by promoting growth and strengthening the tissue. Because biotin also helps support a healthy inflammation response, it also reduces joint discomfort while tissue is being repaired.