BIOTIN (Vitamin B7)

Main Characteristics

• It is also a water-soluble vitamin that is not synthesized by the body and is considered essential for health. However, the intestinal flora seems to synthesize this vitamin. However, its bioavailability to the host is unknown.

• In biotin deficiency, there is a reduction in the enzyme pyruvate carboxylase, thus influencing gluconeogenesis.

• Biotin deficiency can occur in special situations such as during long-term anticonvulsant therapy, parenteral diet and pregnancy.

 

Main Functions and Mechanisms of Action

• Energy production: Biotin plays a fundamental role in energy production through the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids.

• Action on dermatitis and alopecia: A decompensation mechanism in the biotin cycle can compromise the metabolism of fatty acids and manifest dermatological problems. Studies show that the administration of biotin, in addition to healing lesions, allows hair growth.

• Effect on nail health: Studies suggest that biotin acts on nails, making them stronger and less brittle.

• Effect on the immune system: Modulates the immune response mechanism to antigens and reduces the synthesis of inflammatory cytokines.

• Effect in the treatment of Candidiasis: Biotin inhibits the conversion of Candida albicans to its micellar form, preventing its invasion of other tissues.

• Benefits embryonic growth during pregnancy: Biotin plays an important role in fetal and organ growth.

• Effect on diabetes control: Biotin acts on the activity of hepatocytes, controlling the release of glucose stored in the liver into the circulation.

• Control of lipid levels: Administration of biotin has been shown to reduce triglyceride and VLDL concentrations.

 

Bioavailability

• When absorbed orally, biotin is completely absorbed and has high bioavailability.

• Absorption of free biotin occurs in the small intestine by sodium-dependent active transport; free biotin is filtered in the urine and can be reabsorbed by the kidneys.

• The bioavailability of biotin in foods is still unknown.

• Bioavailability is greater when supplemented with other B vitamins.

 

Possible interactions

• Drugs such as carbamazepine, primidone and antibiotics can deplete biotin levels in the body, thus increasing its need.

Interaction between nutrients

• There are no reports of interactions with other nutrients, only with avidin, a protein present in eggs.

 

Scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of supplementation

• Biotin is available in the form of supplements, both alone and in combination with other vitamins and minerals. The best form of administration is a well-balanced formula of vitamins and minerals.

• Avidin, a substance present in raw egg whites, combines with biotin in the intestine and prevents its absorption. Symptoms of deficiency, induced by eating raw egg whites (the equivalent of 24/day), are alleviated by vitamin supplementation, however, it is worth noting that a single occasional raw egg white does not precipitate the efficiency of biotin and avidin is denatured by cooking.

• Some inborn errors of metabolism respond to therapy with vitamin supplementation. Biotin is related to the deficiency of the enzyme carboxylase synthetase that can occur due to deficiency in holocarboxylase synthetase or biotinase. Both are treated with biotin supplementation. Symptoms of multiple carboxylase deficiency can occur both after intestinal resection and due to excessive intake of raw eggs.

• Biotin supplementation appears to act in the treatment of acne and seborrhea.

 

Risks of overdose

• Biotin is eliminated through urine when consumed in excess, avoiding its toxicity.