Is Taking Biotin Healthy? Here’s What Science Says.

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in the metabolism of macronutrients, such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is commonly found in a variety of foods, including eggs, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. In recent years, biotin supplements have become increasingly popular due to claims that they can improve hair, skin, and nail health. But is taking biotin healthy? Here’s what science says.

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The benefits of biotin

Biotin is an essential nutrient that is required for a variety of bodily functions. One of its most important roles is in the metabolism of macronutrients. Biotin helps to convert food into energy, which is used by the body to fuel various processes. It also plays a key role in the production of fatty acids and glucose, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.

In addition to its metabolic functions, biotin has also been shown to have other health benefits. Some studies have suggested that biotin supplements may help to improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. Other research has shown that biotin may help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is associated with a variety of chronic diseases.

The risks of biotin

While biotin is generally considered to be safe, there are some risks associated with taking high doses of the vitamin. One of the main concerns is that biotin supplements can interfere with certain laboratory tests. This is because biotin can cause falsely high or falsely low results, depending on the type of test being performed. For this reason, it is important to inform your doctor if you are taking biotin supplements before undergoing any laboratory testing.

Another potential risk of taking biotin supplements is that they can interact with certain medications. For example, biotin can reduce the absorption of certain antibiotics, which can make them less effective. It is important to speak with your doctor before taking biotin supplements if you are currently taking any medications.

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Getting more biotin in your diet

If you are looking to increase your biotin intake, there are a variety of foods that you can add to your diet. Some of the best sources of biotin include eggs, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Other good sources of biotin include meat, fish, and dairy products. If you are vegetarian or vegan, you can also get biotin from fortified cereals and nutritional yeast.

In addition to dietary sources, biotin supplements are also available over-the-counter. However, it is important to speak with your doctor before taking any supplements, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

The bottom line

Biotin is an essential nutrient that plays a key role in the metabolism of macronutrients. While biotin supplements may offer some health benefits, they can also pose certain risks, particularly when taken in high doses. If you are looking to increase your biotin intake, it is best to do so through dietary sources, such as eggs, nuts, and whole grains. If you are considering taking biotin supplements, it is important to speak with your doctor first to determine the appropriate dosage and to ensure that they will not interfere with any medications or laboratory tests.

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