Vitamin B7
Vitamin B7, also known as Biotin, is a crystalline compound that is poorly soluble in water and resistant to many chemical reactions.
Biotin is present in the daily life of cells, in the synthesis of fatty acids and amino acids. It plays an important role in the Krebs cycle, where energy needed by the cell is created. Biotin is also essential in maintaining correct blood sugar levels. People with diabetes often have very low levels of biotin. Research is still ongoing, but so far it has been determined that biotin is involved in insulin synthesis. It is recommended for strengthening hair and nails. It can be found as a component of many cosmetic products, especially those intended for hair and skin.
Deficiency rarely occurs because it is synthesized by intestinal flora from fatty acids. Deficiency can occur due to prolonged use of antibiotics that destroy intestinal flora or consumption of raw egg whites which contain an antimetabolite (i.e., inhibitor) of biotin: avidin
Sources of Vitamin
It is found in meat, eggs, liver, bananas, mushrooms, peas, cauliflower, spinach, walnuts, chocolate, and brewer’s yeast.
Recommended Daily Dose
- Children under 3 years: 10-20 µg
- Children between 4-6 years of age: 25 µg
- Children between 7-10 years of age: 30 µg
- For adolescents and adults: 30-100 µg.