Vitamin B7/B8/H Biotin

Question 1

Vitamin B7/B8/H Biotin

Answer 1

• Biotin as a vitamin was discovered due to its deficiency state brought about by raw egg consumption (at about 30% of the diet for many weeks to years). It is considered part of the B vitamin complex and has no known toxicities.
• Raw egg whites contain a protein called avidin which joins with biotin making it unabsorbable. Avidin is denatured by cooking.
• Biotin is an otherwise relatively stable B vitamin. Widespread in foods but only in small amounts (micrograms) and also made by intestinal bacteria which is also absorbed into circulation.

Question 2

Vitamin B7/B8/H Biotin - Food Sources

Answer 2

Egg yolk, yeast, wholegrains, cauliflower, sweet potato, nuts, meat, oily fish.

Question 3

Vitamin B7/B8/H Biotin - Roles

Answer 3

Gene Regulation

Blood Sugar Regulation

Question 4

Vitamin B7/B8/H Biotin - Gene Regulation - Function

Answer 4

• Regulates gene expressions (e.g. modifies the activity of transcription factors) which are crucial for metabolism.
• Particularly supportive of rapidly regenerating tissues e.g. skin, hair and nails.

Question 5

Vitamin B7/B8/H Biotin - Gene Regulation - Therapeutic uses

Answer 5

• Dandruff
• Brittle nails
• Dry/brittle hair
• Cradle cap

Question 6

Vitamin B7/B8/H Biotin - Blood Sugar Regulation - Functions

Answer 6

• In combination with the mineral chromium , biotin has been shown to improve blood glucose control (reducing HbA1c); i.e. 2mg of biotin with 600mcg of chromium

Question 7

Vitamin B7/B8/H Biotin - Blood Sugar Regulation - Therapeutic Uses

Answer 7

Diabetes mellitus

PCOS

Question 8

Vitamin B7/B8/H Biotin - Deficiency

Answer 8

• Symptoms: Dermatitis, dry scaly flaky skin (i.e. mouth and nose), smooth pale tongue, hair thinning and loss, depigmentation.
• Deficiency can occur in rare metabolic disorders (tested at birth), due to biotin deficient formula or tubal feeding.
• Intestinal production can be reduced due to prolonged use of antibiotics . A vegetarian diet may enhance biotin synthesis and absorption.
• Anticonvulsant drugs and alcohol may inhibit absorption. Steroid hormones and anticonvulsants may hasten breakdown of biotin in tissues. Biotin supplementation interferes with laboratory tests.