BIOTIN

General Description:

Actions:

• helps the body metabolize proteins, carbohydrates, and fats for fuel
• forms part of two enzymes, pyruvate carboxylase and acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase
• biotin is essential for gluconeogenesis (formation of new glucose) and fatty acid synthesis, two major fuels in the body
• 3-methylcrotonyl coenzyme A is another enzyme dependent on biotin and is essential for the catabolism of branched-chain amino acids
• important for healthy skin, hair, and nails
• antiseptic qualities
• used in the treatment of Malaria

Deficiency:

• deficiency can be caused by a high intake of raw eggs because they contain a substance called, avidin, that prevents the absorption of biotin. Note: cooking destroys avidin
• deficiency may cause eczema, dandruff, hair loss, seborrhea, skin disorders, pallor, heart abnormalities, lung infections, anemia, loss of appetite, extreme fatigue, confusion, mental depression, drowsiness, and hallucinations

Interactions and Toxicity:

Sources:

• brewer's yeast, unpolished rice, soybeans