Biotin

Biotin is a B vitamin involved in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. It strengthens nail and promotes hair growth. Biotin can be used in diabetes, to lower blood sugar and prevent neuropathy, the numbness and tingling associated with poor glucose control. It is also useful in treating cradle cap, the dry or greasy patches that form on the scalp of some infants.

Biotin Deficiency Symptoms

Biotin deficiency can cause grayish skin, anemia, depression, poor fat metabolism, heart problems, dermatitis and balding.

Biotin Sources

Biotin is found in brewer's yeast, corn, barley, soybeans, liver, brown rice and other whole grains, eggs, fish, nuts, legumes, liver and cauliflower. Biotin is destroyed by certain food processing techniques like canning and heat curing. It is always better to choose fresh fruits, vegetables and meats over canned or cured foods.

Egg yolk is one of the most dense sources of biotin, but raw egg whites contain a molecule called avidin which can bind with biotin and prevent its absorption. Too much egg whites in the diet can cause a biotin deficiency.

Biotin Toxicity

None reported.