Biotin: Benefits and Food Sources

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails. It is commonly found in various foods and supplements.
Category
Nutrient
Where to get
Available in food sources like eggs, nuts, and certain vegetables. Also available as a supplement.
Applicable for
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

biotin FAQ


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Is biotin a protein?

Most biotin in foods is bound to protein, although some dietary biotin is in the free form [ 1, 3, 4, 6 ].

Why is biotin called biotin?

The name biotin, borrowed from the German Biotin, derives from the Ancient Greek word βίοτος ( bíotos; 'life') and the suffix "-in" (a suffix used in chemistry usually to indicate 'forming'). Biotin appears as a white crystalline solid that looks like needles.

Why is biotin important?

Biotin has an important role in supporting the enzymes that break down the fat, protein and carbohydrates from the food we eat, turning them into energy. 5 Biotin also helps us maintain normal healthy hair and skin. 6 Our bodies use it to enable cells to reproduce properly, and skin and hair have a high cell-turnover.

What is biotin used for?

Natural Standard Patient Monograph: “Biotin.” WebMD explains the supplement biotin, a coenzyme also known as vitamin H, that is sometimes used for hepatitis, diabetes, brittle nails, and other conditions.

Is biotin a vitamin?

Biotin is a coenzyme and a B vitamin. It is also known as vitamin H. Because biotin is present in so many different kinds of foods, deficiency is rare. As a supplement, biotin is sometimes used for hepatitis, brittle nails, neuropathy, and other conditions. Why do people take biotin? Biotin plays a key role in the body.

Where can you find biotin?

You can find biotin in food sources like egg yolk, nuts, and mushrooms. Also known as vitamin H, biotin is one of the B complex vitamins that help the body convert food into energy. The word “biotin” comes from the ancient Greek word “biotos,” which means “life” or “sustenance.”

biotin References

If you want to know more about biotin, consider exploring links below:

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