Vitamin H, also known as Biotin comes from the family of the Vitamin B complex group. The main function of every vitamin from the B group is to convert carbohydrates into glucose, which is food into fuel. In short B vitamins are the source of energy for the body. Further, these B vitamins also help metabolize fats & proteins. If you are suffering from unhealthy skin or hair issues, or having eye-related or liver issues, B Vitamins are your one-stop solution.

Biotin and its Origins

Biotin is water-soluble which means your body does not store it. In your body, biotin is naturally formed in small amounts by the bacteria present in your intestines. Biotin is also found in certain food items in smaller amounts. It is important for regular embryonic growth as well. When one has a deficiency of biotin in the body it might result in frequent hair loss, insomnia, fatigue, dry scaly or flaky skin, swollen & painful tongue, loss of appetite, dry eyes, depression, etc. This is when one may choose to take external vitamin supplements to help with the deficiency.

Benefits of Taking Biotin

Just like other vitamins, Biotin also helps the body use its enzymes to carry and absorb nutrients throughout the entire body. Apart from the basic function, the following are some other health benefits of biotin:

• Diabetes Management- Biotin helps to manage certain symptoms of diabetes. It helps to regulate the blood sugar levels of the body and also promotes healthy brain function.
• Improve hair quality and reduce hair fall- One of the most common reasons why people take biotin supplements is because it improves the texture of the hair and reduces hair fall. It can also help to increase hair volume for women experiencing thinning of hair.
• Improves skin & fingernails- Biotin provides hydration to the skin and soothes it. Biotin supplements can make your skin glow and have a smoother texture. It has also been shown to improve nail quality.
• Prenatal care- During pregnancy women can face several health issues with the need for extra nutrients. Biotin deficiency in the body can lead to defficieny in child development. Biotin supplements can give you that extra nutrition that is required to develop a healthy child inside the womb.
• Peripheral Neuropathy- Certain reports state that biotin supplements can improve symptoms of the condition known as peripheral neuropathy.

How to take Biotin?

One should eat foods containing a healthy amount of Biotin naturally in them. Apart from this, one can also take direct, multi-vitamins and B-vitamin complex supplements that are generally available in 100mcg, 50 mcg or 10 mcg tablets.

Is consuming Biotin supplements associated with health risks?

Several types of research have suggested that consuming Biotin supplements is associated with little to no health risks. Biotin just like any B vitamin dissolves easily with water. Therefore you can generally not overdose on biotin in the body since your body will flush out any excess amount through urination. However few might experience some side effects from biotin supplements. For safety one should always consult a doctor before taking any biotin supplements.