Vitamin B7 is also known as biotin. It used to be called vitamin H, which stood for Haar und Haut – a German term for hair and skin. The water-soluble vitamin does not store in your body, so you need to replace it on a regular basis. Biotin helps your body function properly in several different ways. Although more research is required to prove these assumptions, this particular vitamin can improve your health.
Several enzymes that are involved in fat, protein and carbohydrate metabolism need biotin to produce energy and function properly. The enzymes play a crucial role in macronutrient metabolism by initiating the required steps to start the metabolic process of fatty acid synthesis, gluconeogenesis, and the breakdown of amino acids, just to name a few.
If you have brittle, weak nails that chip, split, or crack easily then you should up your biotin. Several global studies have linked taking biotin with nail health. The vitamin may help improve nail thickness, which reduces the likelihood of breakage.
A biotin deficiency is sometimes linked to seborrheic dermatitis. This skin condition is commonly referred to as cradle cap. If you notice scaly, red skin rashes, you may need to up your intake of biotin. If you experience hair loss, you might want to talk to your doctor about biotin. This particular B vitamin is usually associated with hair growth.
A deficiency of biotin is possible in pregnant women. Although it is generally not severe enough to cause symptoms, you should consult with your medical provider about ensuring your levels are up to par. The deficiency is caused by the fact that biotin breaks down faster during pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins contain both folic acid and biotin.
Since biotin aids in metabolism, it only makes sense that this vitamin might help another metabolic disease known as Type 2 diabetes. If you have high blood sugar levels because of inadequate insulin function, you might need to take more biotin. The concentrations level of biotin in the blood is often lower if you have diabetes.
Myelin is a protective sheath that covers the nerve fibres in your spinal cord, eyes, and brain. When the myelin is damaged or destroyed, it causes the autoimmune disease known as multiple sclerosis (MS). Although more studies are required, several cases reveal that high doses of the B vitamin can improve the symptoms.
A deficiency of biotin can lead to certain ailments. Not having enough of the B vitamin can also leave you with a compromised immune system. You have a greater risk of getting sick or developing an infection if you do not take enough biotin. When you take biotin, it essentially increases the production of Th1 cytokines, which are required for triggering the immune’s response to fighting viral or bacterial infections.