The Benefits of Biotin

Photo by: Bigstockphoto
Photo by: Bigstockphoto

Biotin – also known as vitamin H – is a part of complex B vitamins that facilitate in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. This nutrient is associated with improved hair and nail health. Vitamin H is also linked to proper nervous system function. Being deficient in this nutrient could lead to depression, hair loss, scaly skin, dry eyes, and extremely dry skin.

Studies show that biotin deficiency is common among chronic smokers, alcoholics, and pregnant women. Liver disease and Crohn’s disease are also associated with biotin deficiency. In today’s post, we are listing down the amazing benefits of biotin:

Strong Hair and Nails

Do you suffer from brittle nails and hair prone to breaking? Boosting your biotin consumption is one way to keep the hair and nails stronger! Biotin supports hair growth. It also thickens the nail and the cuticles to prevent breakage. Studies show that biotin keeps the nails and hair flexible and resistant to dryness. In fact, several personal care companies are formulating their products with biotin to keep the hair and nails strong.

Glowing Skin

Want to know the secret to glowing skin? Taking vitamin H supplements. Biotin keeps the skin supple, healthy, and glowing. This nutrient plays a key role in the normal function of the nervous system. The nervous system keeps the hormones in check, which affect the state of your skin. Biotin deficiency could lead to irritated, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. This nutrient is an excellent supplement for those who suffer from rashes, acne, psoriasis, dermatitis and scaly skin especially around the mouth.

Healthy Metabolic Function

Did you know that biotin is instrumental to proper metabolic function? This nutrient works as a co-enzyme to break down the carbohydrates, fats, and protein from the food you eat. The effects of biotin are further enhanced when paired with chromium picolinate. Biotin is key to an active metabolic rate. If you want to lose weight or maintain a slimmer physique, do away with diet pills. Take biotin supplements instead. Of course, you need to pair biotin supplements with proper diet and exercise to achieve the desired results! Some of the best sources of this nutrient are egg yolks, walnuts, soy, whole grains, and certain legumes.

Lower Bad Cholesterol

Biotin decreases bad cholesterol LDL in the system. Studies show that elevated levels of LDL in the blood could lead to cardiovascular diseases including heart attack and strokes. Biotin helps regulate the good and bad cholesterol in the blood. Although more tests are needed to determine the effects of this nutrient in combating bad cholesterol, results look promising.

Regulate Glucose Level

Consuming biotin and chromium-rich foods help stabilize the glucose level in the blood. A study by the Alpha Therapy Center in Corpus Christi, Texas found that biotin, combined with chromium, can improve the body’s glycemic control, especially among obese individuals afflicted with type 2 diabetes. Another study found that biotin deficiency is linked to impaired glucose tolerance and decreased utilization of glucose.

Our Final Thought

Biotin no doubt plays a critical role in the body’s metabolic rate. This vitamin is safe for pregnant and nursing women. However, check with your doctor first before taking biotin supplements or any dietary supplements for that matter.