What is Biotin Good For?
June 21, 2019
B vitamins play a vital role in maintaining good health and wellness. They are water-soluble, meaning any excess is eliminated and must be replaced daily. The eight B vitamins have a direct impact on energy, cognitive function, mood, cell growth, immune system, muscle and more. In particular, vitamin B-7, or biotin, is often overlooked, yet is important for a myriad of benefits including keeping skin, hair, and nails looking healthy and youthful.
Interestingly, biotin is sometimes referred to by one of its former names, vitamin H from the German words Haar which means hair. Could this be why biotin is considered one of the best hair vitamins? Maybe. Other sources say it’s called vitamin H because nutrients were named in alphabetical order as they were discovered and identified.
Biotin benefits for hair, skin and nails
It’s a smart move to reach for biotin for hair or hair growth. Along with weak nails and dry skin, you might think thinning, brittle hair is related to your thyroid, but all of these issues can be related to insufficient amounts of biotin. While research and studies are limited, it appears biotin is involved in the production of keratin, a basic protein in hair, skin and nails. This is why you’ll see biotin added to many skin and hair care products. It is most effective, however, when ingested as opposed to applied topically.
Other biotin benefits
Besides beauty benefits, biotin helps your body other ways too. It is important for the development of white blood cells to help keep your immune system strong. Like other B vitamins, biotin is involved in your brain’s neurotransmitters that keep your mood balanced and cognitive function strong. It also supports cardiovascular health, metabolism, adrenal function, muscle and joint comfort.
Food sources of biotin
Unfortunately, many of us do not get enough biotin from our diet, yet it is easy enough to obtain from the following foods:
- Egg yolks
- Salmon
- Avocado
- Cheese
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Beef liver
- Brewer’s yeast
- Raspberries
- Cauliflower
- Whole grain bread
- Mushrooms
- Almonds, walnuts, pecans
- Sunflower seeds
- Sweet potatoes
Biotin supplements and biotin vitamins
If you’re concerned about getting enough biotin, you can find biotin supplements either as part of a B-complex or by itself. It is available in powder, liquid, softgels, capsules, tablets, or gummies. Look for a high-quality biotin supplement that offers 5000 mcg. For more biotin, hair, skin and nail beauty care click the link below.
