Benefits of Biotin

Vitamin B7, or biotin is one of the most celebrated of the B vitamins, not only for our health but in beauty circles as well.  But before we get into biotin, what are the B vitamins?  Quite simply, there are eight different B vitamins with their own name and function.  B1 is involved in numerous body functions including nervous system and muscle functioning and carbohydrate metabolism. B2 and B3 both aid in digestion; B2 is additionally responsible for helping make oxygen available for use by your body while B3 has implications in the health of your nerves and skin.  B5 and B7 are necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, fats and amino acids.  B6 is necessary for the synthesis of serotonin and norepinephrine and myelin formation.  B9 aids the body in making healthy new cells and is imperative for women of childbearing age to consume to prevent neural tube defects.  Finally, B12 is a key player in red blood cell formation and protein and DNA synthesis.  B vitamins are primarily found in high-protein foods such as fish, meat, poultry, eggs and dairy.  Some leafy, green vegetables, beans and peas are also high in B vitamins. 

Vitamin B7, aka biotin, is necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, fats and amino acids.  All these are used as energy within our body.  Biotin is often recommended as a dietary supplement for strengthening hair and nails, this is why it is often found in hair care products and dubbed “vitamin H”.  Because biotin plays an integral part of a healthy metabolism and creating important enzymes, may systems within the body benefit from it.  Aside from the metabolism, biotin benefits the skin, nerves, digestive tract and the body’s cells.

Biotin can be found in various foods such as liver, cauliflower, salmon, carrots, bananas, yeast, wheat germ, whole-grain cereals, whole wheat bread, eggs, dairy products, nuts, and chicken.  Biotin is also said to be made by bacteria in the small intestines. It is recommended that adolescents and adults get between 30 and 100 mcg of biotin per day.  Although most can get enough biotin by eating a heathy diet, if you are taking biotin supplements, any extra biotin will pass though the body when you urinate because it is water soluble.  It is important to know that biotin deficiencies are rare.   But when they do occur, symptoms include hair loss, scaly red rashes, and nails that are brittle. 

Spices may lower blood sugar

Almond extract. Almonds contain a high level of healthy fats. Eating a handful of almonds between meals every day can be beneficial. However, be careful because nuts can be high in calories.

Avocado extract. The main ingredient in avocados is monounsaturated fatty acids, which are the good source of fats. These have been known to improve fasting blood glucose levels and reduce insulin resistance.

Dried blueberries or blueberry extract. Blueberries are great source of antioxidants. They can help improve insulin sensitivity.

Turmeric. Turmeric has been found to reduce hemoglobin A1C levels. Turmeric is often used in Indian style dishes.

Cinnamon. Prior research suggests that whole cinnamon and cinnamon extract may significantly reduce fasting blood glucose levels. Talk to your doctor before using cinnamon because many forms of cinnamon contain blood thinning properties (warfarin).

Garlic extract. Prior research suggests that garlic extract may help reduce blood glucose levels. Garlic is typically known to reduce cholesterol.

Ginger. Ginger is known to help relieve stomach pain and aid in digestion. However, it can also help lower blood sugar. Consult with your doctor first because taking ginger and medication could cause your body’s glucose to drop dangerously low.

What your body odor means

1.     Strong smelling urine. This could indicate a urinary tract infection. This is common among sexually active individuals.

2.     Under arm odor. Under arm odor is common. But if it smells different than it should, it could indicate bacteria in the armpit area. If this is the case, see your doctor to find out how to get rid of the bacteria growing in this area.

3.     Urine that smells sweet. Sweet smelling urine may indicate something is wrong. We know that it is typical for your urine to smell after eating asparagus, but if your urine has a sweet odor, it could indicate diabetes and other conditions. If your urine starts to smell sweet frequently, get a check-up and discuss this symptom with your doctor.

4.     Foot odor. Foul smelling feet may indicate excessive bacteria in your feet, shoes, or socks. The bacteria on your feet can linger and persist and if you have a fungal infection, also known as athlete’s foot.

5.     Foul smelling gas. If you have excessive gas that smells worse than usual, it could mean there is too much bloat in the stomach, irritable bowel syndrome, or even lactose intolerance.

6.     Chronic bad breath. Chronic bad breath can be a cause for concern. It may indicate gum disease caused by H. pylori. If you suspect there to be gum disease, see your dentist.

7.     Fruity smelling breath. If your breath has a fruity odor, consider getting your blood sugar checked. Fruity breath may be a symptom of possible diabetes.