Biotin, or vitamin H is part of the complex B vitamins. In the Netherlands, Biotin has been given number 8 in the B vitamin group, while in Germany and the United States it is listed as number 7!

However, along with helping the body metabolize fats and carbohydrates, biotin has been linked to improved hair health and maintaining proper function of the nervous system. Especially chronic smokers, alcoholics, pregnant women, those with Crohn’s and/or liver disease and anyone eating a diet loaded with processed foods are mostly having a deficiency.

Symptoms often reveal themselves through dry eyes, cracking on the sides of the mouth, scaly skin, depression and hair loss.

Without B-group vitamins the body lacks energy as they are needed to help the body to use the energy-yielding nutrients (such as carbohydrates, fat and protein) for fuel and to help cells to multiply by making new DNA.

Taking any one of the B vitamins as a single supplement for a long period of time can result in an imbalance of other important B vitamins. For this reason, it is recommendable to take a supplement, which includes the full spectrum of the B vitamins.