Benefits of Biotin

Biotin — also known as vitamin B7 — is a B-complex vitamin that helps your body break down food into valuable energy.

While you can maintain a healthy biotin level by eating meat, eggs, fish, seeds, nuts, and some vegetables, many people choose to consume it in a daily supplement.

The name “biotin” comes from the Greek word “biotos,” which means “sustenance” or “life-giving.” As a B vitamin, biotin offers a variety of health benefits. It can help maintain the health of your nervous system, liver, eyes, hair, and skin.

Health Benefits
Biotin helps maintain many of your body’s major systems. Like other B vitamins, biotin helps your body use enzymes and carry nutrients throughout the body.

Diabetes Management
Studies show that biotin may help manage symptoms of diabetes. It helps regulate blood sugar levels in some people with diabetes.

In addition, the B vitamins promote healthy brain function — which helps manage neurological symptoms of diabetes like neuropathy (damage or dysfunction of a nerve).

Hair Health
Biotin is well known for its positive effects on hair. Research shows that biotin improves hair health — including shine, volume, and scalp coverage in women who experience thinning hair.

Improved Skin and Fingernails
Research also shows that biotin helps improve skin’s hydration, smoothness, and appearance. In addition, some studies show that biotin can strengthen fingernails and make them grow faster. Biotin is a versatile addition to your beauty routine.

Prenatal Care
Biotin is also necessary for a healthy pregnancy. Studies show that a biotin deficiency — which is fairly common among women who are pregnant — can lead to health issues in developing babies. Because of this, women who are pregnant should regularly eat biotin-rich foods and should also consider taking biotin supplements.

As with any supplement, make sure you consult your doctor before use.