Dr.Abhay Kumar Pati, Author, Best Nutrition Inc USA
www.bestnutrition.com, www.nutritionbest.com, www.ayurvedicsupplements.com, www.biotechayur.com
DESCRIPTION
Biotin is sometimes referred to as “vitamin H” or “coenzyme R.” It was first discovered as a factor that protected against the toxicity of raw egg whites. It is destroyed when eggs are thoroughly cooked.
Biotin is required in the process of energy production in the cells of the body. It may help prevent premature graying and balding.
Deficiency symptoms
In adults, inadequate biotin consumption can lead to a scaly dermatitis and hair loss. Deficiency is more commonly seen in infants in whom the scaly dermatitis is described as “cradle cap.”
Therapeutic uses
Those Who may need to supplement
REQUIRED NUTRITIONAL INTAKE
The COMA report of 1991 suggested daily intake of biotin from 10 to 200 mcg. The range described is very wide because not enough is yet known about biotin to be more specific. Actual dietary intake of biotin has been found to be between 10 and 58 mcg daily.
Best food sources
| Food | Biotin (mcg/100g) |
|---|---|
| brewer’s yeast | 80 |
| pig’s kidney | 32 |
| yeast extract | 27 |
| pig’s liver | 27 |
| wheat bran | 14 |
| wheat germ | 12 |
| chicken | 10 |
| lamb | 6 |
| bread, whole-meal | 6 |
| fish, fatty | 5 |
SAFETY
Having been reportedly given to young infants at doses of up to 40 mg without problems, biotin is regarded as a safe vitamin.
INTERACTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS
Biotin, as one of the B-complex vitamins, is best taken as part of the group of B vitamins, although single supplementation is safe as part of a nutritional therapeutic program.