Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
Health Benefits of Vitamin B7
- Supports Metabolism: Essential for metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, aiding in energy production.
- Promotes Healthy Hair, Skin, and Nails: Contributes to maintaining strong hair, healthy skin, and resilient nails, often used in supplements for these purposes.
- Nervous System Health: Plays a role in supporting the nervous system by aiding in the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
- Cell Growth and Repair: Important for cell growth and maintenance, aiding in tissue repair and synthesis.
Interaction with Other Vitamins and Minerals
Key Interactions
- Other B Vitamins: Works in conjunction with other B vitamins (e.g., B5 and B6) to support energy production and overall metabolic health.
- Magnesium: Assists in the activation of enzymes that require biotin for effective metabolism.
- Vitamin A: Supports skin health alongside biotin, promoting healthy skin structure and function.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Complements biotin by enhancing the health of hair, skin, and nails.
Potential Effects of Imbalances
- Deficiency Issues: Rare but can lead to symptoms like hair thinning, brittle nails, skin rashes, and neurological symptoms such as fatigue and depression.
- Excess Intake: Generally safe, as biotin is water-soluble and excess amounts are typically excreted through urine.