If your nails are brittle and weak, reach for a biotin supplement. Biotin, also known as vitamin H, is a B-complex vitamin that is available over-the-counter at drugstores and health food stores. Biotin may help strengthen nails, help hair grow and clear up some skin conditions, like seborrheic dermatitis, says The University of Maryland Medical Center website in the article "Vitamin H." Consult a doctor to determine if biotin will benefit your particular condition.
SIgnificance
Biotin is a vitamin that is naturally present in some foods, like cauliflower. It is also naturally created by bacteria in the intestines, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Biotin is water soluble, so it is not stored in the body. Like all B vitamins, biotin is necessary for healthy skin, eyes and hair. Individuals with biotin deficiency may experience hair loss and dry skin. Biotin deficiency is rare, but can be cured by taking biotin supplements.
Benefits
Biotin may be recommended as a cure for seborrheic dermatitis, a skin condition that causes flaking of the scalp. Additionally, biotin may be used to treat hair loss disorders, like alopecia, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. According to MayoClinic.com, biotin may strengthen nails and help them grow longer.
Prevention/Solution
Biotin is available in capsules or tables that are available without a prescription. To treat a biotin deficiency in adults and teenagers, MayoClinic.com recommends taking 30 to 100 micrograms of biotin per day. Taking biotin as directed by a doctor will help completely eliminate biotin deficiency. To keep brittle nails from splitting or breaking, MayoClinic.com suggests taking 2.5 milligrams of biotin per day. Biotin is a common active ingredient in a variety of beauty supplies designed to strengthen hair and nails.
Considerations
Individuals who do not want to take over-the-counter biotin supplements can eat foods that are rich in biotin. Biotin is present in cooked egg yolks, sardines, almonds, walnuts, pecans, brewer's yeast, peanuts, beans, cauliflower, bananas, mushrooms and whole grains, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Raw egg whites prevent the body from absorbing biotin. Foods that are natural and unprocessed may contain more biotin than processed foods. For example, eating a fresh banana contains more biotin than eating a slice of banana bread.
Effects
There are no known side effects associated with taking biotin, says MayoClinic.com. Call a doctor immediately if you notice any strange health symptoms while taking biotin. Although biotin may be taken with other medications, it may cause interactions in some cases. Consult a doctor before using biotin in combination with other supplements or medications.
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