THE SIGNIFICANCE OF BIOTIN FOR HAIR

Vitamins are needed for health and growth processes in the body. One of the important ones is biotin, a water soluble B complex vitamin that is also called Vitamin H or vitamin B7. The B vitamins are important in the metabolism of fats and proteins in the body.

Biotin is a water soluble B-complex vitamin also known as vitamin B7, Vitamin H or Coenzyme R. Like other vitamins, biotin is necessary forcellular growth and production of fatty acids. It is also needed for the metabolism of fat and amino acids.

Biotin is found in various foods, including dairy products, wheat bran, organ meats such as liver and kidney, salmon, bananas, soybeans, nuts, cauliflower, strawberries, blueberries, and cooked egg yolks. Although eggs are rich in protein, raw egg whites have akind of protein called Avidin that acts as a barrier for protein absorption in the body. Thus, raw eggs shouldn’t be eaten to prevent this.

Biotin deficiency is rare because most foods already have it or are fortified with biotin. But deficiencies in biotin is described as having dry scaly skin, dry eyes, hair loss, fatigue, insomnia, and loss of appetite.

In addition there are certain diseases that are associated with biotin deficiency. These are usually because of the related problems in the absorption of enzymes in the small intestines such as Crohn’s disease. People with diabetes may also have absorption problems. Chronic use of antibiotics and people undergoing kidney dialysis can have low biotin levels.

Biotin deficiency can affect hair growth and could cause increased hair fall. It can cause fragile and unhealthy hair which is prone tobreakage. Thus, biotin is frequently recommended for strengthening the nails and hair. Although it is produced naturally by the intestinal flora of the body, biotin is still used in many nail and shampoo products because of its importance in proper hair and nail growth.