BIOTIN
Biotin is commonly known as vitamin B7, and has also been referred to as coenzyme R and W Factor. It was originally called vitamin H—the H signifying the German word haut, which means skin. As a supplement biotin is typically used to prevent or treat deficiency in this nutrient. A water-soluble vitamin, biotin is found in many foods (e.g., meats, egg yolks, nuts, beans, and fish)but the biotin in most foods is not readily bioavailable. It is also synthesized by naturally-occurring intestinal bacteria, and is believed to be stored in mitochondria in cells.
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In addition to its essential health functions and ability to resolve or reduce the symptoms of biotin deficiency, biotin may also offer preventive or therapeutic benefits for a number of illnesses or conditions:
- Brittle nails (based on successful treatment of horse hoof diseases with biotin)
- Cancer treatments (e.g., for brain, breast, colorectal, and lymphoma cancers)
- Diabetes
- Hair loss
- Heart disease
- Neurological disorders
- Skin conditions
- Wound healing
Biotin is generally considered both safe and well-tolerated, with no adverse effects reported. A number of drugs, including antibiotics, can cause biotin deficiency. Biotin use may also cause inaccuracies with certain thyroid lab tests.
