Biotin: Benefits and Side Effects

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Biotin offers several health benefits, including the reduction of plasma lipids, protection against metabolic syndrome, and improvement in lactation performance. However, high doses of biotin can have adverse effects, such as impairing testis morphology and exacerbating biotin deficiency in certain diets. Further research is needed to fully understand the safe and effective use of biotin supplementation.

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in the metabolization of nutrients into energy. It acts as a cofactor for several carboxylases and is involved in various systemic processes, including gene regulation and intermediary metabolism. This article explores the benefits and potential side effects of biotin supplementation based on recent research findings.

Benefits of Biotin

Reduction of Plasma Lipids

Biotin has been shown to significantly reduce plasma triacylglycerol and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) concentrations in both type 2 diabetic patients and nondiabetic subjects with hypertriglyceridemia. This suggests that biotin could be used in the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia1.

Protective Effects Against Metabolic Syndrome

Biotin supplementation has demonstrated protective effects against high-fructose-induced metabolic syndrome in rats. It improved insulin resistance, normalized hepatic and serum levels of triglyceride and cholesterol, and prevented steatosis and hepatic oxidative damage2.

Improvement in Lactation Performance

In dairy cows, biotin supplementation has been associated with higher milk protein and lactose yields. This indicates that biotin can enhance lactation performance, although no additive effect was observed when combined with vitamin B124 9.

Enhancement of Lipid Metabolism

Biotin supplementation has been found to increase adipose tissue cGMP content and the protein expression of active forms of AMPK and inactive forms of acetyl-CoA carboxylase. This leads to decreased serum fatty acid levels, supporting its use in the treatment of dyslipidemia5.

Bioavailability and Absorption

A novel form of biotin, magnesium biotinate, has shown high bioavailability and absorption rates in healthy subjects. This form of biotin could potentially offer more efficient supplementation options6.

Side Effects of Biotin

Impairment of Testis Morphology and Sperm Quality

High concentrations of biotin have been found to impair testis morphology and sperm quality in mice. This raises concerns about the safety of pharmacological doses of biotin, particularly regarding reproductive health7.

Exacerbation of Biotin Deficiency

The ketogenic diet, which is low in carbohydrates and high in fats, can exacerbate biotin deficiency. This is particularly concerning for individuals on such diets, as biotin deficiency can lead to symptoms like hair loss and dermatitis10.

Interaction with Valproic Acid

Valproic acid, an antiepileptic drug, can lead to biotin deficiency and low biotinidase enzyme activity. Biotin supplementation may help mitigate these effects, although further studies are needed to determine the effective and safe dose3.

Effects on Malnourished Children

In children with severe protein-energy malnutrition, biotin supplementation improved lymphocyte carboxylase activities, indicating a nutritionally determined biotin deficiency. However, the response was not related to initial plasma biotin concentration, suggesting that carboxylases are better indicators of biotin status8.