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Diet
& Nutrition Biotin
What
is Biotin?
Biotin (otherwise known as vitamin H) was first identified in 1936 when it
was discovered as a cure for 'egg white injury' , a disease caused by the over consumption
of egg whites! (A protein in egg whites binds Biotin and
disrupts its use in the body).
Biotin is another essential nutrient
which is widely available in virtually all animal and plant cells. The
human body manufactures large quantities of Biotin in the intestines.
occurs in all living cells, both plant and animals. It is also produced in
the intestinal tract by bacteria.
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Function
- Assists utilisation of protein
- Helps the body utilise other B
vitamins
- Helps in the synthesis and
oxidation of fatty acids
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Signs
of deficiency
- Dry scaly dermatitis
- Nausea and vomiting
- Anorexia
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Best
sources
- Mushrooms
- Watermelon
- Strawberries
- Peanuts
- Yeast
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Notes
Deficiencies are only likely in people who consume copious amounts of egg
whites.
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This page was last updated on 25 October 2006 15:44:31
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