Biotin is a water-soluble B vitamin. It is found in oatmeal, egg yolk, soy, mushrooms, bananas, peanuts, brewer’s yeast and many organ meats. Biotin is also produced in the intestine. It acts as a coenzyme in the metabolism of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Biotin deficiency symptoms include depression, dermatitis, hair loss, anemia, and nausea. Biotin deficiency can be caused by long-term antibiotic use, use of anti-seizure medications, alcoholism, inflammatory bowel disease, and diseases of the stomach. Most diets provide between 30–70 mcg per day, and this, combined with intestinal production, appears to be adequate for preventing deficiency symptoms.
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