Vitamin H Biotin Vitamin B8

Vitamin H Biotin Vitamin B8 (from serum with film)

Biotin deficiency can cause hair loss, inflammation of the skin, nausea, depression and occurs in e.g. anorexia, frequent antibiotic use combined with poor nutrition, alcohol abuse.

Biotin is mainly found in animal products such as liver, egg yolk, meat and fish. However, it is also found in soybeans and whole grain cereals. Biotin is also made by the bacteria of the gastrointestinal tract.

Biotin is a vitamin of the Vitamin B complex. The Vitamin B complex consists of eight vitamins. The absorption of biotin occurs mainly in a passive manner. Little is known about the storage of biotin. Biotin is excreted with the urine. Biotin is important in the release of energy by the cell. Biotin acts as a coenzyme for activated carbon dioxide.

The recommended daily allowance of biotin depends in part on energy intake. When a lot of energy (calories) is ingested, a lot of biotin is needed. The RDA for biotin is about 30 micrograms/day.

An insufficient intake of biotin is rare. Deficiencies of biotin can cause hair loss, depression, morbid sleepiness, hallucinations, tingling in arms and legs, and skin rashes. Toxic effects from overdose have never been documented.

This test is done when biotin deficiency is suspected in hair loss, dermatitis, anorexia, nausea, depression

Dermatitis perioralis is an inflammation of the skin around the mouth.
There are red, dry pimples, sometimes pimples or blisters.
The spots may itch or sting.
It is not contagious.
Stop using all cosmetics, skin care products and corticosteroid creams.
Persevere. After 2 weeks, the skin begins to settle down again.

laboratory method used: EIAReference
result is good if it is higher than 200 ng/l.

in nmol/l are the reference values
:vitamin H (biotin) higher than > 1.03 nmol/l is good.
Suboptimal status 0.41 - 1.03Avitaminosis
(disease caused by chronic deficiency) with a result below 0.41 nmol/l

There is no information on poisoning from taking too much vitamin H.

Reduced biotin concentrations are found in: drug-based intestinal sterilization combined with diet low in biotin, alcohol abuse, or feeding by infusion.