Biotin During Pregnancy

It is recommended by doctors as it helps hair growth and makes bones and nails strong. Biotin also keeps the skin, liver, and nervous system healthy. It helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Biotin In Pregnancy

In the case of pregnant women, it is all the more important that adequate biotin is taken. The body breaks down biotin faster during pregnancy and it cannot be stored. That is why it is seen that pregnant ladies have this deficiency. Biotin takes care of the growth and development of the fetus.

It is a safe supplement, but it is important that the dosage is taken as prescribed by the doctor. The general daily recommended dosage of biotin is 25 mcg to 30 mcg.  Biotin does not usually have any side effects, but in case there is any irritation or allergic reaction, it is better to immediately consult your doctor. In some people, it can cause mild nausea or indigestion.

It is also good to inform the doctor whether any other vitamin supplement is being taken. The deficiency of biotin causes hair loss and discoloration, dry eyes, tingling sensation in the arms and legs, numbness, and even depression in adults. In a few cases, it leads to skin rash, fatigue, and insomnia.

Food Containing Biotin

Along with the supplement, it is important that your diet comprises biotin-rich foods. Let us discuss a few food items which contain a good quantity of biotin.

1. Grains and nuts: Nuts like walnuts, pecan, almonds, and peanuts are rich in biotin. It is also good to eat whole grains and cereals in every meal.
2. Dairy products: Eggs are the main source of biotin, so this becomes a necessary part of everyday diet. But care has to be taken that the eggs are cooked completely before consumption. It is also good to include milk and cheese in the diet.
3. Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are an excellent source of biotin. Mushrooms, cauliflower, bananas, avocado, raspberries, carrot, onion, cucumber, etc., contain biotin.
4. Legumes: Legumes like soybean and black-eyed peas, etc., are also a good source of biotin.
5. Meat and fish: Salmon, sardines, etc., are rich in biotin.

Biotin In Pregnancy and Hair Growth

The human hair shafts are made up of Keratin which is a type of protein. The reaction of cell enzymes and biotin forms amino acids. These help build proteins. Thus, biotin is essential for hair growth. The deficiency of biotin affects the texture, appearance, and strength of hair.

Without biotin, hair follicles become weak and hair loses its ability to regrow. The dosage of biotin for hair growth depends on your age and current health conditions.

Usually, the recommended dosage is:

• 25 mcg for young adults ages 14 to 18
• 20 mcg for children ages 9 to 13
• 12 mcg for children ages 4 to 8
• 8 mcg for children ages 1 to 3
• 7 mcg for children under 12 months old
• 35 mcg for pregnant women.

But it is advisable for even non-pregnant women to consult a doctor before taking biotin supplements. It is usually taken orally, in the form of pills. In some cases, women alter their diet to include biotin-rich food items.

Continuous intake of biotin helps make stronger hair follicles and results in thicker hair. It has also become an important ingredient in hair products like oils and shampoos. In some people, the effects of biotin on hair can be seen as early as 3 weeks while in a few others it may take up to six months.

It is good to remember that the supplement alone will not help hair growth. It works only in combination with an overall healthy diet and lifestyle.