Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is essential for metabolism, hormone production, and the growth of skin cells, hair, and nails. Biotin can be naturally sourced from foods such as egg yolks, organ meats, nuts, and seeds, but it is also available through supplements. But what happens if someone takes too much biotin? Let’s explore this topic further.

What is Biotin?

Biotin, or vitamin B7, is a crucial nutrient that supports various bodily functions. Its primary role is to assist in converting carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy. In addition to helping with metabolism, biotin is vital for maintaining healthy skin and promoting hair growth.

The recommended biotin intake varies depending on age. For children aged 4-8 years, the daily requirement is 12 mcg. Adults generally need about 30 mcg per day. Pregnant and breastfeeding women have slightly higher needs, around 35 mcg daily.

Biotin can be obtained from foods like meat and nuts, or through over-the-counter supplements. However, biotin supplements typically come in doses of 7,500-10,000 mcg, which is much higher than the body's actual requirement. Before taking a biotin supplement, it's important to consult a doctor to ensure safety and be aware of any potential side effects.

Can Someone Overdose on Biotin?

Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning any excess is not stored in the body but is instead flushed out through urine. This makes it unlikely for biotin to accumulate to dangerous levels, particularly in individuals with healthy kidneys.

Studies have tested large biotin doses, such as 300 mg (10,000 times higher than the body's needs), and found no significant side effects from these high levels of biotin.

Although there are no documented severe side effects from consuming excessive biotin, a study involving mice showed that very high doses could cause the following issues:

• Stomach pain

• Insomnia

• Increased thirst

• Frequent urination

While these effects have been observed in animals, it’s still unclear at what exact dosage these side effects could manifest in humans.

One important consideration when taking excessive biotin is its potential to interfere with various blood tests, including:

• Troponin level test: Biotin may cause a false negative result in tests used to detect heart strain or heart attacks, making test results appear normal even when they aren’t.

• Thyroid hormone level test: Biotin could lead to inaccurately low levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and falsely high levels of triiodothyronine (T3) or thyroxine (T4), possibly leading to a false diagnosis of hyperthyroidism and making it harder to determine the correct dose of thyroid medication for hypothyroidism.

• Vitamin D level test: High doses of biotin may skew vitamin D levels in blood tests.

• Hormone level tests: Biotin can also affect results for other hormone tests, including those measuring parathyroid and reproductive hormones.

Many people take biotin supplements to help with hair and skin health. However, before starting biotin supplements, it’s important to consult with a doctor. You can also use the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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