What is biotin?
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a water-soluble B vitamin that is vital to life for all known organisms.
It is formed in plants and microorganisms, and the body’s supply of biotin is also supplemented with biotin produced by bacteria in the gut.
Biotin is important for the body, and is active in many different metabolic reactions, and in regulating sugar metabolism.
Deficiency in biotin is rare, and it is unlikely that overdosing with biotin is possible.
There are hereditary metabolic diseases, when the body is unable to absorb and metabolise biotin, but they are rare. Babies are screened for these diseases at birth.
Forming new hair
The growth of cells and their ability to divide are important in renewal and producing new hair and skin.
Biotin deficiency can therefore cause hair loss, and that is why you are advised to take a supplement of biotin if your hair is thinning.
Biotin is the body’s assistant
Biotin is a coenzyme in the metabolism of fat and carbohydrates.
It is also involved in the production of urea, which takes place in the liver and the metabolism of amino acids.
Biotin in the diet
Biotin is found in most foods, and there is seldom any risk of biotin deficiency if you eat a varied diet.
Biotin is found in nuts, dairy products, whole wheat products, pulses, leafy green vegetables, yeast, fruit, unpolished rice, egg yolks and liver.
The daily requirement of biotin is calculated at 30 micrograms, and a varied diet will give you 40 micrograms.
Egg whites contain almost 100 % pure protein, and are therefore used as a dietary supplement, for example when training for weightlifting, boxing or strength training.
However, if egg whites are eaten raw, they contain the protein avidin, which prevents absorption of biotin.
How much biotin per day?
There are no known cases of biotin overdose, but it is recommended that you should not exceed 225-300 micrograms per day.
Pregnant women and children should not take biotin tablets without consulting a doctor first.
If you have biotin deficiency
Biotin deficiency can arise in connection with a high consumption of alcohol, or in periods when you drink more alcohol than usual. It is also possible if you have taken antibiotics for a prolonged period, have had a section of the rectum removed, or are in dialysis. Pregnant women supply biotin to the foetus in the womb.
Problems with the bacterial flora in the gut may also have a negative effect on the body's supply of biotin.
Problems with bacterial flora in the gut often occur in connection with long-term treatment with antibiotics.
Symptoms of deficiency
Biotin deficiency can be seen as a rash around the mouth, eyes and nostrils, and it may lead to hair loss or symptoms in the neural system.
Other signs may be:
- fatigue
- muscle pain
- depression
- greyish skin
How is biotin deficiency treated?
Biotin deficiency is treated with supplements of biotin and increased consumption of foods with biotin. The symptoms will then normally disappear by themselves.
Beneficial serum with biotin
Australian Bodycare has developed a Hair Loss Serum, which is part of a three-step solution for hair loss. The series consists of a conditioner, a shampoo and a spray.
Our serum contains a unique combination of 100 % natural Capilia Longa, Tea Tree Oil and vitamin B7, biotin.
All three ingredients work together to create optimal conditions for your hair:
- Capilia Longa comes from the Curcuma Longa plant, and has many unique qualities. It has been clinically documented that Capilia Longa has a beneficial effect on hair loss.
- Tea Tree Oil combats bacteria and supports scalp health, so that your hair is better able to grow thick and strong.
- Biotin is a water-soluble B vitamin, and one of the keys to healthy hair.
A supplement with biotin is beneficial for maintaining normal hair
Australian Bodycare also supplies a popular supplement with biotin, which helps to maintain normal, healthy hair.
Our dietary supplement is suitable for both men and women who suffer from unwanted hair loss, thin hair or shedding of hair.
If you use our Hair Loss Care dietary supplement, you get the right nutrients in the form of vitamins and minerals:
- Capsaicin from cayenne pepper helps to promote hair growth.
- Field horsetail helps to improve hair growth and strength.
- Field horsetail helps to replenish minerals in the body, and the silica content helps to keep the hair in optimal condition.
- Biotin and zinc help to maintain normal hair.
- Copper helps to ensure normal pigmentation in the hair.
