Biotin (Vitamin B7 / Vitamin H) – Effects, Foods, Requirements
Biotin (vitamin B7, also known as vitamin H) contributes to the maintenance of normal skin, hair, and nails. Learn here which foods contain biotin, what the daily requirement is, and how biotin is used in dietary supplements.
What is biotin?
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, is one of the water-soluble vitamins of the vitamin B complex. It plays a role as a cofactor for numerous enzymes and is known for its function in energy metabolism and for the maintenance of normal skin, hair, and mucous membranes.
Biotin – Effects in the body
Biotin acts as a cofactor in various metabolic pathways:
- contributes to normal energy metabolism
- contributes to the normal function of the nervous system
- contributes to the maintenance of normal skin
- contributes to the maintenance of normal hair
- contributes to the maintenance of normal mucous membranes
- contributes to normal psychological function
- contributes to the normal metabolism of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats)
These statements are approved health claims according to EU Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006.
Daily requirement and biotin deficiency
- Recommended intake according to DGE: 40 µg per day for adults
- Biotin deficiency is rare, but can occur in:
- very one-sided diet
- parenteral nutrition (infusion therapy) without supplementation
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (increased need)
- Taking certain medications (e.g. anticonvulsants)
Foods high in biotin
- Beef liver - 100–130µg/100 g
- Egg yolk - approx. 50µg/100 g
- Soybeans - approx. 60µg/100 g
- Oat flakes - approx. 20µg/100 g
- Walnuts - 15–20µg/100 g
- Mushrooms - approx. 16µg/100 g
💡 Note: Raw egg whites contain avidin, which binds to biotin and inhibits its absorption. Heating inactivates avidin.
Biotin in dietary supplements
Biotin is a proven ingredient in many preparations, especially for:
- Skin, hair and nails
- Energy and nerve metabolism
- special life situations such as pregnancy and breastfeeding
Typical dosages: 100–5,000 µg per daily dose. Excess is usually excreted in the urine.
Legal regulations
- Authorised in the EU according to Directive 2002/46/EC and Regulation (EC) No 1925/2006
- Minimum content for the use of health claims: ≥ 7.5 µg biotin per daily dose
Biotin in our product (advertisement)
Our product Skin Hair Nails contains:
- Biotin in sensible dosage
- Bamboo shoot extract as a source of silicon
- Pearl millet extract
- Oak hare extract
Properties: vegan, gluten-free, free from artificial additives.
Studies on biotin (general information)
- Zempleni J, Hassan YI, Wijeratne SS. Biotin and biotinidase deficiency. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab. 2008;3(6):715–724.
- Mock DM. Biotin: from nutrition to therapeutics. J Nutr. 2017;147(9):1487–1492.
These studies are for general scientific information only and do not constitute health claims .
Instructions for use
- Dietary supplements do not replace a varied diet
- If you are ill or taking medication on a long-term basis, seek medical advice
- Important: High doses of biotin can distort laboratory values (e.g. thyroid, heart markers) – always report intake before blood tests
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about biotin
How long does it take for biotin to work?
Individually, this varies. The first visible effects on skin and hair are usually reported after 4–8 weeks of regular use.
Does biotin help with hair loss?
The effect is only considered proven in cases of proven biotin deficiency. There is no clear evidence for normal intake.
Can biotin also be taken by men?
Yes, biotin supports skin, hair, mucous membranes, and energy metabolism in all genders.
Is biotin useful during pregnancy?
The need is slightly increased. However, intake should always be discussed with a doctor.
Legal notice
This article provides general information about biotin. It does not replace medical advice. Biotin is subject to only the approved health claims listed above, according to EU Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006.
Transparency notice
The product mentions in this article refer to
Products from our own range. Through the sale of these products
We generate revenue. Disclosures pursuant to Section 5a of the German Unfair Competition Act (UWG) and Section 3 of the German Commercial Code (HWG).