Biotin is a water soluble vitamin that also goes by the name vitamin B7. It is also a part of a group of nutrients that are integral to proper nervous, cardiovascular, digestive, and metabolic health. In other words, biotin serves as a coenzyme that helps metabolize fatty acids, glucose, and amino acids in the body, and helps transform the aforementioned macronutrients into essential energy for the body. The word biotin is derived from the ancient Greek word “biotis”, which means sustenance. In fact, biotin is required to ensure proper and healthy embryonic development in expecting women.
In regards to human skin, hair, and nails, biotin plays a pivotal role in keeping skin, hair, and nails from ageing in a premature manner. That is, biotin can help slow down the aging process and is sometimes nicknamed the “hair and nail” vitamin. In fact, biotin has become so popular that it is a staple in many hair, skin, and nail products in the dermatology industry, being added to various rejuvenating shampoos and skin care products. However, research on biotin’s absorbency via such products has been brought into question, with some studies claiming that the optimal way for the body to benefit from biotin is to ingest it orally (i.e., capsule supplement).
For instance, many foods can be consumed on a regular basis to enjoy the full benefits of biotin. Some foods rich in biotin include mushrooms, cauliflower, legumes, fish, berries, eggs, and even various organ meats. Interestingly, for those who do not enjoy consuming any of the aforementioned food, some studies have found that the human digestive system may be able to produce biotin on its own via digestive bacteria.
What’s more, an overabundance of biotin is rare, because, as mentioned, biotin is a water soluble compound. As such, any excess biotin is generally expelled via urine. Biotin deficiency is also rare in first world countries, but not an impossibility. If you suffer from dry and irritated skin, brittle nails, and marked hair loss then you may be suffering from biotin deficiency.
In addition, studies have found that biotin can also help reduce acne, as well as severe skin cracking, dryness, and rashes. Biotin can even help prevent fungal infections, and some of its restorative properties were first discovered in horses; as hoof cracking and brittleness was treated effectively with biotin.
To help regrow your hair using biotin,
