Biotin, a type of B vitamin, has been studied for its potential benefits in managing certain health conditions and for general wellness. The key benefits identified in the reviewed studies include improved glycemic control in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes patients (Singer & Geohas, 2006) and improved coronary risk factors in hypercholesterolemic type 2 diabetes patients when combined with chromium (Albarracin, Fuqua, & Geohas, 2007). These studies suggest that biotin supplementation could be a safe and effective strategy for managing these conditions, with a moderate to high level of scientific evidence supporting these claims based on their credibility scores.
However, the perceived benefits of biotin for promoting healthier hair, skin, and nails are not strongly supported by scientific evidence (John & Lipner, 2019; Lipner, 2018). While biotin is commonly recommended for these issues, the studies call for further research to fully understand its effectiveness.
In terms of safety, biotin is generally considered safe but there are considerations to note. High doses of biotin can interfere with certain lab tests, including hormone and nonhormone assays, potentially leading to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment (Li et al., 2017; John & Lipner, 2019; Lipner, 2018). This interference is a significant safety concern that should be taken into account when considering biotin supplementation.
As for recommended usage, none of the reviewed studies provided specific dosage recommendations. However, it’s generally advised to follow the dosage instructions provided by the supplement manufacturer or consult with a healthcare provider.
In conclusion, while biotin supplementation may offer benefits for specific health conditions such as poorly controlled type 2 diabetes, the evidence supporting its use for general wellness and beauty enhancement is limited. Furthermore, the potential for biotin to interfere with lab tests is a significant safety concern. As with any supplement, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting biotin supplementation.
… and biotin supplementation on glycemic control in poorly controlled patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a placebo-controlled, double-blinded, randomized trial
The study by Singer and Geohas (2006) explored the effects of biotin supplementation on glycemic control in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus. The results showed that biotin supplementation significantly improved glycemic control, reducing fasting blood glucose levels and improving glucose tolerance. The study concluded that biotin supplementation is a safe and effective strategy for improving glycemic control in individuals with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes.
… of chromium and biotin improves coronary risk factors in hypercholesterolemic type 2 diabetes mellitus: a placebo‐controlled, double‐blind randomized clinical trial
The 2007 study by Albarracin, Fuqua, and Geohas found that the combination of chromium and biotin significantly improved coronary risk factors in patients with hypercholesterolemic type 2 diabetes mellitus. The study was a placebo-controlled, double-blind randomized clinical trial, ensuring the reliability of the results. The authors concluded that these supplements could be a safe and effective strategy to manage this condition, although further research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms of action.
Consumer perception of biotin supplementation
The 2019 study by JJ John and SR Lipner, published in the Journal of Cutaneous Medicine, explores consumer perception of biotin supplementation. The research found that while many consumers believe biotin supplements promote healthier hair, skin, and nails, the scientific evidence supporting these benefits is limited. The study also highlighted that excessive biotin intake can interfere with certain lab tests, potentially leading to misdiagnosis. The authors suggest that further research is necessary to fully understand the benefits and risks of biotin supplementation.
Association of biotin ingestion with performance of hormone and nonhormone assays in healthy adults
The 2017 study by Li, Radulescu, Shrestha, Root, and Karger, published in JAMA, investigated the impact of biotin ingestion on hormone and nonhormone assays in healthy adults. The key finding was that biotin intake can significantly interfere with certain lab tests, including those for hormones like thyroid and nonhormone assays. This interference can lead to falsely high or low results, potentially leading to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment. The study did not focus on health benefits, mechanisms of action, safety, or usage of biotin as a supplement.
Rethinking biotin therapy for hair, nail, and skin disorders
The 2018 publication “Rethinking biotin therapy for hair, nail, and skin disorders” by SR Lipner, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, critically examines the use of biotin as a treatment for hair, nail, and skin conditions. The study suggests that while biotin is commonly recommended for these issues, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. The author also raises concerns about the safety of biotin supplementation, noting that it can interfere with certain lab tests and potentially lead to misdiagnosis. The paper calls for further research into the benefits and risks of biotin therapy.
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