Biotin is a water-soluble B vitamin, meaning the body does not store it. It is also referred to as B7and vitamin H. The word biotin comes from the ancient Greek word “biotos,” which means “life” or “sustenance.
Vitamin B7 cannot be synthesized by human cells, but it is produced by bacteria in the body, and it is present in numerous foods. Since water-soluble vitamins do not get stored in fat tissues, they get depleted quickly and must be regularly supplied. Low levels of Biotin can have a dramatic impact on our appearance and how we feel in our skin.
One of the widely known benefits is that it helps stimulate hair growth, causing hair to thicken and appear more lustrous. The reason why biotin seems to have a positive effect on hair growth and shine is that it improves the body’s Keratin supply. Keratin is a protein that works with the cells at the top layer of the skin and one of its roles is to give strength to epithelial cells - the outer layer of skin, that are associated with hair, skin, and nails.
Biotin deficiency can lead to significant problems with the skin's inner health and outer appearance. Dry, itchy skin is one of the most common issues, although more serious conditions like acne and psoriasis can also arise. Keep in mind that we need to nourish our skin from the inside out to prevent serious skin problems.
Biotin supports the production of fatty acids that nourish the skin, and help oil glands function properly. Since Biotin plays an important role in increasing keratin production, it helps the epidermis become resistant to physical stress that human tissue encounters. Keratin promotes epidermal layers that are strong and moisturized to resist harm.
Biotin may also improve the appearance of skin by reducing fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of aging.
In recent years, strong nails have become more highlighted as a beauty standard in the Western world. Nothing seems to be more painful than splitting fingernails that crack and bleed.
Biotin promotes healthy cell growth and regulates the cells that are responsible for healthy nail growth. Biotin also plays a role in protein metabolism. Healthy protein levels within the body are not only important for strong muscles, but strong nails too. For those reasons, biotin is essential for improving nail growth and reducing brittle, slow-growing nails.
If you have brittle, weak nails that chip, split, or crack easily then you should up your Biotin.
While we know Biotin is amazing for people looking to promote healthy hair, skin, and nails, many people are not aware there are other benefits from Biotin that aren't as commonly known.
Biotin has been found to help protect the brain from oxidative stress and neurological disorders. The brain needs Biotin for the formation of the myelin sheath, one of the fatty substances which are needed for protecting the brain. Along with the other B complex vitamins, Biotin keeps our nervous system in working order by assisting with neurotransmitter activity and helping with nerve signals. It also protects our brain, improves memory, and helps form a defense against cognitive issues, neurodegenerative disorders, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease. Biotin can also help us to improve concentration and keep a positive outlook.
Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disease where insulin and blood sugar regulation cease to function effectively. Studies have shown that Biotin has the power to lower blood glucose levels in people with Type 2 diabetes by stimulating the secretion of insulin.
Thyroid disease causes a host of body-wide symptoms that can become a full-time job to manage. Between body aches and low energy levels, the final straw for most thyroid patients is hair loss. Biotin is necessary for maintaining appropriate thyroid activity and regulating sleep, hunger, energy, and even pain. When our body has trouble controlling these basic functions and we experience weight gain, trouble sleeping, or constant fatigue, additional biotin can help with thyroid regulation.
Biotin is part of a group of enzymes that help the digestive system do its job – it helps the body make glucose (blood sugar) and digestible fat from the foods that we eat. Without enough biotin, our body won’t be able to fully break down fats, carbs, and proteins during digestion, which can set off a chain reaction that leads to other nutrient problems because the body can’t use the vitamins and minerals from the food we eat.
Biotin helps pull glucose from non-carb foods, like meats and other proteins, in a process known as gluconeogenesis. The body needs to be able to make the most out of the food that it takes in while also being able to supply a constant stream of blood sugar to keep the body in balance.
Along with boosting metabolism, biotin can also aid in weight loss by elevating our resting rate of metabolism. When paired with chromium, biotin can significantly accelerate weight loss and provide us with the desired results within no time.
One of the major Biotin benefits in heart protection. Biotin can stimulate the blood flow inside the heart and thus prevent the heart from many common problems.
High cholesterol is much more than just a large number on a chart. High levels of low-density lipoprotein, better known as bad cholesterol, can lead to heart disease. This in turn can increase our chances of having a stroke or a heart attack.
According to the research, Biotin can help lower LDL levels while increasing levels of high-density lipoprotein, otherwise known as good cholesterol. By reducing inflammation and plaque buildup in arteries, Biotin can also help lower our risk of heart attacks and strokes.
One of the major diseases that affect the nervous system is multiple sclerosis or MS. It’s driven by an autoimmune attack of the myelin sheath, which covers and protects nerve fibers in the brain, spinal cord, and eyes. Biotin is an essential element for producing the myelin sheath and is being extensively researched as a treatment for progressive MS.
Biotin can be found in many foods, including but not limited to:
Egg yolk
Organ meats (liver, kidney)
Nuts, like almonds, peanuts, pecans, and walnuts
Soybeans and other legumes
Cauliflower
Bananas
Sweet potatoes
Spinach
Mushrooms and more
Since food-processing techniques like cooking can render Biotin ineffective, many individuals might experience Biotin deficiency.
Biotin supplements can be taken orally but for the best results here at Rejuvii, we have another option to maximize the body's intake of this nutrient -by adding one of our Biotin boosters to the drip(IV) or administering as an intramuscular (IM) injection.
Learn more about us here, and give us a call at 224-372-3747
