What is Biotin? – Healthy Hair and Nails

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Given the amount that the average American spends on hair and nail care, it’s clear that we, as a society, value the appearance of both. This isn’t surprising once you consider the fact that scientists regularly posit that human attraction focuses disproportionately on healthy hair, skin, and nails as indicators of youth and health. Both factors are a partially subconscious part of selecting a mate who is both fertile and able to produce better, stronger offspring.

For better or worse, your hair and nails are solid indicators of your current health. Ageing, hormonal changes, poor diet, cardiovascular diseases, and a large number of other conditions all have the ability to weaken and eventually damage your hair and nails. The question remains, what can you do about it?

The Path Ahead

The first thing you have to consider is, what personal changes can you make to improve your overall health. You may quit smoking, cut back on drinking, improve the vitamin content of your daily meals, reduce sun exposure, or simply follow a doctor’s instructions that you have been conveniently ignoring. Almost any positive shift in your general health will positively affect the appearance of your hair and nails with time.

Time is an important factor to consider. Remember that it will likely take months of continued change to see any visible change in your hair and nails. What you see today is already a product of past decisions. Your job is to create a better environment for new hair and nails to form. But be patient. On average, it takes a nail a full six months to fully grow out. Hair can be even more frustrating, as the average person’s hair only grows six inches per year.

A Helping Hand

It takes years to grow a new head of thick hair, so you may occasionally slip up or worry that you’re not doing enough. This is where Biotin for hair growth comes in. Dr. David Nazarian explains that Biotin is actually a B-complex vitamin sometimes known as B7 or Vitamin H. The Office of Dietary Supplements states that it can be naturally found in a variety of foods, including:

  • Meat, fish, eggs, and organ meats
  • Seeds and Nuts
  • Some vegetables such as sweet potatoes, spinach, and broccoli

However, not everyone receives enough through their normal daily intake. If you’re making a dietary transition from one dominated by low-vitamin carbs, then you may need a little vitamin boost. Several other groups are prone to biotin deficiency. This includes pregnant patients and those who are affected by biotinidase deficiency or alcohol dependency.

In addition to seeing improvements in your hair and nails, achieving proper vitamin levels will also cause a noticeable improvement in your skin and metabolism over time. This allows you to reach more of your goals as your healthier hair and nails grow in.

How to Proceed

If you’re having trouble staying on track with these lifestyle changes, talk to Dr. Nazarian about receiving Biotin injections or oral supplements. At My Concierge MD, we specialize in giving you the best foundation for the changes you want to see made in your life by helping you manage your hormone and vitamin levels. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your current concerns and what our holistic approach can do to bring you closer to your goals of re-creating a healthier you.

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