Sources of Vitamin B8
- The rich sources of biotin are brewer’s yeast, beef liver, rice bran, rice germ, rice polishings and peanut butter.
- This vitamin is also normally produced in the intestines if there are a sufficient amount of healthy intestinal flora present.
- However, frequent use of antibiotics can interfere with the synthesis of this vitamin.
Functions of Vitamin B8 Biotin
- Biotin is vital for a healthy immune system.
- It is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
- It is essential for the growth and health of the hair.
- It prevents premature greying of the hair as well as hair loss.
- This vitamin helps to maintain the skin and the nervous system in a sound condition.
- It controls proper distribution of colour pigment.
Biotin(vitamin B8) is a member of the B complex group.
Biotin is one of the most active biological substances known: An extremely small amount of this vitamin has a marked effect on the growth of yeast and certain bacteria. It forms part of several enzyme systems. Biotin is freely soluble in hot water, but sparingly in cold water.
It is insoluble in fat solvents and sparingly soluble in alcohol. Water, sulpha drugs, oestrogen, food processing techniques, alcohol, and, in particular, large quantities of egg white can destroy this vitamin.
