Biotin (Vitamin B7)

Biotin Supplementation

Biotin is water-soluble, essential (i.e. can’t be synthesized by the body) B vitamin.

Biotin deficiency is rare, since intestinal bacteria are typically able to produce adequate levels of biotin.

Biotin has a multitude of important functions including metabolism of fatty acids, glucose, and amino acids. Biotin deficiency can cause hair loss, nail and skin problems, as well as a host of other disorders.

Some researchers and clinicians believe that Biotin supplementation improves hair loss by enhancing protein synthesis, cellular growth and keratin infrastructure. Biotin, (vitamin B7), in the past, was called vitamin H, for Haar und Haut (Germain for hair and skin).

Dietary Sources of Biotin
Common dietary sources of biotin include: meat, fish, eggs, organ meats, seeds and nuts, sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli and bananas.

Biotin Shampoos
Shampoos are usually not an effective delivery system, since they are only briefly in contact with the scalp and contain low concentrations of biotin. Delivering biotin into the hair follicle, can be achieved much more effectively by taking an oral biotin supplement.

Disclaimer
Please consult with your physician before considering any of the drugs or treatments discussed on this website