Everything you should know before taking Biotin

Biotin (Vitamin H) and pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) work together at the most basic level to produce enzymes that trigger many bodily functions. Biotin promotes healthy hair and nails and helps the body use carbohydrates, fats and protein. Pantothenic acid appears to play a valuable role in how the body deals with stress; it promotes healthy function of the central nervous system, helps the body use carbohydrates, fats and protein. It also may reduce cholesterol and speed up wound healing.

Biotin can be found in a wide range of foods such as milk, liver, egg yolk, salmon, chicken, Swiss chard, dried peas, beans and leafy green vegetables. Mushrooms and nuts also have smaller quantities of biotin. Bacteria in the intestinal tract, also produces enough biotin for the body’s needs.

It takes an unusual situation for biotin deficiency to develop, such as if a person eats large amounts of raw egg whites or the person has some genetic disorder or has side effects through prolonged use of certain medications. Egg whites in particular have a substance called avidin that prevents the body from absorbing biotin. If the egg whites are cooked, then that deactivates the avidin. Extended use of certain antibiotics that destroy intestinal bacteria can lead to a biotin deficiency as well; but normally this only becomes a problem if your diet also lacks enough biotin.

Symptoms of biotin deficiency

• The skin looks dry and scaly
• Thinning of hair
• Lack of appetite
• Cracked corners of the mouth
• Brittle nails

Consult your physician.

While Dr. Tahani Williams says that biotin is water-soluble, meaning that excess amounts of the vitamin aren't stored in your body. Even so, you should still speak with your doctor before adding the pill to your regimen, she adds. "Anyone on medications or who has health conditions should consult with their physician before taking any supplement, including biotin," she notes, adding that taking too much can result in minor side effects like nausea, cramping, and diarrhea.

Dr. Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist with Skin Safe Dermatology and Skin Care, recommends reminding your doctor that you're taking biotin before you undergo any blood work: "Taking biotin supplements can actually interfere with certain blood tests, causing falsely high or low results, depending on the test. Incorrect test results may lead to inappropriate patient management or misdiagnosis."