What is vitamin B8?
Vitamin B8 or (biotin, vitamin H or vitamin I) belongs to the group of water-soluble vitamins, which are not stored in the body and must be taken regularly through foods or supplements. Biotin is not sensitive to high temperatures; however it is sensitive to alkalis and acids.
What is the role of vitamin B8?
Vitamin B8 or biotin participates in protein metabolism and glucose and fatty acids synthesis. It is used for treatment of seborrheic dermatitis (especially in newborn babies) and alopecia and acne, due to its ability to preserve skin and hair follicle integrity.
Which foods are rich in vitamin B8?
Vitamin B8 or biotin is present in many foods, particularly in milk, cheese, liver, egg yolk, peanuts, dried peas, vegetables, fungi and yeast.
What is the daily requirement of vitamin B8?
The daily requirement of vitamin B8 or biotin ranges from 15 to 100 mg per day. Individuals who practice sports at a semi-professional level and require a great deal of energy and accelerated protein synthesis, the requirement may be double.
Vitamin B8 deficiency
In addition to being found in many foods, vitamin B8 or biotin is also produced in large quantities by the intestinal flora, so lack of vitamin B8 can cause complications. Such complications may occur as a result of excessive consumption of raw egg whites, which are antagonists of biotin. Symptoms of vitamin B8 deficiency include fatigue, nausea, depression and skin changes.
Excessive vitamin B8 intake
There are no toxic side effects from excessive vitamin B8 intake.
