Vitamin B8 is a water-soluble vitamin, which is not only widely distributed in food but also manufactured in the lower digestive tract of the human body. It is very stable when heated.
Benefits of Vitamin B8 -
* Vitamin B8 or biotin is imperative for a healthy immune system. It is necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats from food. It is also required for the utilization of proteins, folic acid and vitamin B 12.
* Vitamin B8 plays an important role DNA and RNA synthesis (genetic material), production of red blood cells and proper functioning of the nervous system.
* It is essential for the growth of healthy hair as well as prevents premature greying of the hair as well as hair loss. Biotin, found as an active ingredient in many of today’s shampoos and hair conditioners, is said to repair damaged hair and keep hair healthy.
* This vitamin also helps to maintain the skin in healthy condition. It helps to evenly distribute the colour pigment – melanin throughout the skin. Deficiency of this vitamin often leads to pigmentation problems.
* Required in the creation of glycogen, and is also essential in the making of fatty acids.
* Essential for pregnant women as it helps prevention of neural tube birth defects
* It has a significant role in red blood cell formation along with homocysteine metabolism (required for proper functioning of the heart). Deficiency of Vitamin B-8 results in megaloblastic anemia.
Deficiency of Vitamin B8 -
A deficiency in B8 is rare since it is widely available in food.