Biotin (with the formula, C10H16N2O3S), or vitamin H, is a water-soluble B-complex vitamin (Vitamin B7) that plays an important role in the overall function of the body and the harnessing of energy from the metabolic processes of the body. carbohydrates and fat. These are crystalline white needles necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, fats and amino acids in the body.
Biotin is mainly found in certain foods, such as meats and vegetables. Some other sources of biotin are found in nuts and vegetables. There are foods that are high in biotin because they contain a substance called avidin, a type of protein that allows biotin to bind strongly to it. These biotin-rich foods are liver and egg yolk. Aside from food sources of biotin, it can also be taken as supplements that are available as pharmaceuticals, helping a person prevent or treat biotin deficiencies.
This vitamin plays an important role in normal human functioning. It is involved in the process of transferring carbon dioxide in an activated form to certain substances in the body that contribute to the metabolism of fats, amino acids and carbohydrates. It also works as a coenzyme to support the task of carboxylase, which is involved in metabolic processes in the body, such as fatty acid synthesis and amino acid metabolism. Since biotin also works as a component in glucose metabolism, it is also given to diabetic patients to lower blood sugar levels. Similarly, people today are also often concerned about their hair, and taking biotin supplements could also improve hair health.
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for biotin is 300 mcg (micrograms). When there is a lack of biotin in the body, it can result in a nutritional disorder called biotin deficiency that can cause hair loss, anemia, nausea, dermatitis, and also other neurological symptoms such as depression and hallucinations. Since biotin is found in most of our daily food intake and the amount of biotin needed by the body is already found in a well-balanced diet, biotin deficiency is extremely rare.
Biotin daily requirements are relatively small, and biotin that is ingested into the body is immediately recycled once it has been used. However, biotin deficiency can become fatal if ignored. It should be noted that regular consumption of raw egg whites can trigger a biotin deficiency due to the strong protein avidin that prevents the absorption of biotin in the body. However, high doses of biotin may be given to babies with a condition known as infantile seborrhea or to adults with genetic diseases of biotin metabolism.
So far, no side effects have been seen from excessive intake of biotin. It is a water soluble B complex vitamin, so excess biotin is excreted through the urine. Recent ongoing studies regarding the possible additional contribution of biotin to our bodily processes reveal that biotin is also required for processes in cells at the generic level. Knowing what biotin can do in our body should make us realize that there are beneficial substances for humanity, however, when not taken properly, they would contribute to the improper development and functioning of the body.