| Gender | Age | Intake |
|---|---|---|
| 0-12 months | Male | 7 mcg/day |
| 0-12 months | Female | 7 mcg/day |
| 1-3 years | Male | 8 mcg/day |
| 1-3 years | Female | 8 mcg/day |
| 4-8 years | Male | 12 mcg/day |
| 4-8 years | Female | 12 mcg/day |
| 9-13 years | Male | 20 mcg/day |
| 9-13 years | Female | 20 mcg/day |
| 14-18 years | Male | 25 mcg/day |
| 14-18 years | Female | 25 mcg/day |
| 19 years and older | Male | 30 mcg/day |
| 19 years and older | Female | 30 mcg/day |
| Pregnant women | Female | 30 mcg/day |
| Lactating women | Female | 35 mcg/day |
Vitamin B7, also known as biotin and vitamin H, is contained in various plant and animal foods, especially abundant in liver and egg yolks.
In the human body, biotin is an essential component of numerous enzymes, involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and many other substances. It takes part in the synthesis of glucose and fatty acids.
Vitamin B7 is necessary for normal work of the intestine and stomach, healthy nails and hair. It influences the immune system and functions of the nervous system.
It is used for treating and preventing lack of biotin associated with tube feeding, weight loss, malnutrition, and pregnancy. Doctors prescribe vitamin H for curing brittle nails, diabetes, skin rush, depression, and hair loss.
Deficiency in biotin is very rare in people. If can occur in those who eat too many raw egg whites. They contain avidin that make vitamin B7 unavailable to the human body. It can also be induced by various diseases, abusing alcohol, and smoking.
Symptoms of its deficiency include scaly rush aroud the mouth, nose, and eyes, listlessness, tingling, depression, problems with hair, lack of appetite, muscle pains, and hallucinations.
When taken in adequate amounts, vitamin H is safe for healthy adults and children.
There is no data about biotin absorption.
Extra biotin may be needed if you receive kidney dialysis. In this case you should consult your doctor.