What is Biotin (Vitamin B7)?
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or “Vitamin H” (from the German words Haar and Haut for hair and skin), is a water-soluble B-complex vitamin that is essential for converting food into energy. It acts as a vital coenzyme for several metabolic processes, including the synthesis of fatty acids and the breakdown of amino acids and carbohydrates. While the body produces some biotin through gut bacteria and it is found in foods like eggs, nuts, and salmon, many people use concentrated supplements to support the growth and maintenance of high-turnover tissues like hair, skin, and nails.
Common Uses of Biotin for Balanced Medical Solutions’ San Francisco and East Bay Area Patients:
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Hair Strength and Growth: Biotin is most famously used to combat hair thinning and promote volume. It supports the production of keratin, the structural protein that makes up your hair, helping to improve the integrity of the hair shaft and reduce breakage.
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Nail Fortification: For patients with “brittle nail syndrome,” biotin supplementation can significantly increase nail thickness and hardness. This helps reduce the frequency of splitting, peeling, and chipping.
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Metabolic and Blood Sugar Support: Some clinical studies suggest that biotin may improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood glucose levels. When combined with chromium, it is often used as a supportive therapy for managing type 2 diabetes.
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Skin Health and Hydration: Biotin plays a role in the production of fatty acids that nourish the skin. Deficiency often manifests as red, scaly rashes; therefore, maintaining optimal levels helps support a clear complexion and a healthy moisture barrier.
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Nerve Protection (Neuropathy): Because biotin is necessary for the activity of certain enzymes in the nervous system, it is sometimes used to help manage symptoms of peripheral neuropathy (nerve pain or tingling), particularly in patients with diabetes or progressive conditions like multiple sclerosis.
