Biotin, a member of the B-vitamin family, is sometimes referred to as vitamin H because the German words for hair and skin are haar and haut. Biotin is an essential cofactor for numerous enzymes in the body involved in the metabolism of fats, carbs, and amino acids. Therefore, a low level of biotin can negatively affect the body in numerous ways.
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An individual taking an antibiotic that disrupts biotin synthesis in the gut
A person on an anti-seizure medication
An individual who has been on long-term IV nutrition
Anyone with a digestive condition that decreases the absorption of nutrients from food
Those needing additional support for glucose metabolism
People with an inherited enzyme deficiency
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Dry, scaly skin
Thin brittle nails
Dry, brittle hair
Hair loss
Cracks in the corners of the mouth
Swollen, painful tongue
Dry eyes
