▷ Vitamin B8: The wonders of Biotin

Dr. Lunadei is a specialist in dietetics, nutrition and healthy eating. She studied at the University of Milan where she obtained her degree and doctorate

Published: 11/04/2014 - Updated: 03/08/2020

Biotin is also known as vitamin B8, and its primary function is taking part in metabolizing carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It also catalyzes carbon dioxide fixation (during fatty acid synthesis). But this vitamin is also known for its anti-tension properties, which means that it helps reduce stress and body pressure.

Contents

Properties of Vitamin B8
Metabolic processes that vitamin B8 takes part in
Symptoms of Biotin deficiency
Stress, tension and Biotin
Natural sources of Biotin
Biotin for fighting grays and preventing them from emerging
More about Biotin

Properties of Vitamin B8

(Keeping in mind that this vitamin should be taken from natural sources):

Helps fight stress: even though stress is a condition produced primarily by fatigue, too much work, problems, resentments, fears, drugs, chemicals, etc., it can also be caused by deficient Biotin consumption.
Its ability to fight parasitic illnesses.
It can improve women’s fertility.
Helps fight facial stains or excess pigmentation.
It can cure vitiligo by taking 1000 mg of biotin a day, combined with pantothenic acid and folic acid.
Helps strengthen the skin’s sun resistance.

Metabolic processes that vitamin B8 takes part in

Forming hemoglobin.
Cellular processes on a genetic level.
Obtaining energy from glucose.
Helps correct metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids.
Keeps nails, skin and hair healthy. Prevents hair loss and damage.
Prevents diabetic neuropathy and stabilizes blood sugar levels (glycemia).

Symptoms of Biotin deficiency

Excessive hair loss.
Dermatitis or eczema.
Cardiovascular system imbalances.
Low disease resistance.
Lung infections.
When deficiency is prolonged, skin becomes dry and peels off.
Rapid fatigue during daily activities.
Muscle pains
Mental depression

Stress, tension and Biotin

All stressful situations cause a lot of damage and wear on the body, most of all, attacking the nervous system. That’s why in this life of demands and hurry, you must pay special attention to consuming foods that contribute to reducing wear that the body suffers from day to day, and that helps maintain both physical and mental equilibrium. There is nothing better for this than having all of the B-complex vitamins present, which are indispensable for softening wear caused by tension.

Natural sources of Biotin

Brewer’s yeast
Egg yolk
Whole grains
Peanuts
Fresh liver and entrails
Soy flour
White meats like birds and fish
Other vegetable sources: mushrooms, barley, whole-grain flours, walnuts, soy, beans, and garbanzos.
Bacteria in intestinal flora also synthesize biotin.

Biotin for fighting grays and preventing them from emerging

Together with folic acid and pantothenic acid, biotin is essential for preventing grays. If you want to prevent gray hair, keep them from sprouting, or reduce them, try this smoothie daily:

You will need:

One egg yolk (do not mix it with the white because the egg white prevents biotin absorption)
One glass of soy milk, or more, depending on how you like the thickens.
One fruit of choice: papaya, banana, mango or apple.
A little bit of honey.
Three fresh walnuts
One tablespoon of wheat germ

Directions:

Mix everything in a blender and serve without straining. If the mixture is very thick, add a bit more soy milk. Drink slowly in the morning, do not strain. This liquid covers breakfast with its nutrient contribution.

Remember that the appearance of grays is accelerated by excessive stress and tension. That’s why, in addition to drinking this smoothie, you should try to stay relaxed and give yourself constant scalp massages to circulate nutrients, and to relax the scalp.