Vitamin B7, known as biotin, is in small quantities in various foods. The human body requires a steady intake of vitamin B7 to support the proper functioning of several enzymes. Vitamin B7 is necessary for the body's metabolism and functioning. Including vitamin B7 rich foods into your diet ensures your body receives enough to perform metabolic functions properly. 

Know that fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamin B7 to prepare a suitable routine and maintain a healthy diet.

Read on!

Biotin, or vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in the metabolic functions of pantothenic acid, folic acid, and vitamin B12, necessary for cell growth.

In other words, vitamin B7 is a fuel for the body since it helps convert food into energy and is very important for hair, eye, skin, and brain function. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), a biotin deficiency can lead to neurological problems and problems associated with hair, skin, and nails.

Also, the human body cannot generate and store biotin alone. As a result, daily consumption of vitamin B7 foods is essential to maintain this nutrient’s normal levels.

Daily consumption of vitamin B7 rich foods will help improve metabolic functions, prevent brittle nails, boost energy levels, reduce muscle aches, and improve cognitive function.

Eating raw foods that contain vitamin B7 is sometimes not advisable as it can do more harm than good.

Following is a list of vitamin B7 food items. 

• Yeast 

• Beef Liver 

• Eggs

• Mushroom

• Pink Salmon 

• Peanuts

• Pink Salmon 

• Pork

• Hamburger Patty

• Sunflower Seeds

• Avocados

• Almonds

• Walnuts 

• Sweet Potatoes 

• Spinach 

• Broccoli

• Cheddar Cheese 

• Yoghurt 

• Oatmeal

• Carrots

For instance, an egg is considered one of the best vitamin B7 food sources. However, eating a raw egg is not wise, as it might increase the risk of Salmonella poisoning. Plus, it decreases the absorption rate of biotin due to the presence of a protein called avidin.

Hence, it is always advisable to cook food items well before consumption.

Vitamin B7 is a vital component found in numerous food items. Here is a list of vitamin B7 foods to check before diet preparation:

Besides wholesome food items, fruits also contain a good amount of vitamin B7. However, you may wonder which fruit has the most vitamin B7 and can be the best for your diet.

Here is a table comprising the top vitamin B7 fruits with their respective nutritional values.

Have a look!

You can find popular vitamin B7 rich vegetables in the list below and curate a diet plan accordingly.

Have these seeds and nuts on the go and keep munching throughout the day as a snack. This is an excellent way to get more vitamin B7 into your body.

Have these dairy products daily or often to ensure proper vitamin B7 intake. Add milk or cheese to your breakfast to start your day strong.

Here’s a list of animal protein and seafood to add to your meal list to include vitamin B7 rich food in your diet plan.

B complex vitamins are a group of 8 water-soluble nutrients the human body requires a daily supply of. Vitamin B7 sources constitute a prominent part of this group of nutrients. All individuals must ensure adequate amounts of this nutrient in their daily diet for complete well-being.

However, individuals with particular health conditions must consume greater amounts of biotin-rich foods. Refer to the following list to see who needs to consume these nutrients in larger quantities.

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women

• Older adults

• People with specific medical conditions

Incorporating biotin-rich foods into your diet can help you reap these health benefits and maintain overall well-being. Here are the health benefits of consuming foods rich in vitamin B7 (biotin):

Incorporating vitamin B7 rich foods into your diet is essential for supporting metabolism, promoting healthy hair, skin, and nails, and maintaining balanced blood sugar levels. Here are various ways to include these nutrient-packed foods in your meals:

• Eggcellent Choices: Eggs are an excellent source of vitamin B7, also known as biotin. For a nutritious breakfast, incorporate boiled eggs into salads, make an omelette with vegetables, or enjoy scrambled eggs.

• Nutty Additions: Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and peanuts are rich in biotin. Snack on a handful of nuts, sprinkle them over yoghurt or oatmeal or use them as a crunchy topping for salads.

• Fishy Delights: Fatty fish such as salmon, trout, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids and contain biotin. Grill or bake fish fillets for a tasty and nutritious main course.

• Avocado Love: Creamy avocados are not only delicious but also a good source of biotin. Mash them up for guacamole, add slices to sandwiches or salads, or enjoy them as a standalone snack.

• Cheese Please: Incorporate cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss into your meals for a dose of biotin. Sprinkle cheese over pasta dishes, add it to sandwiches, or enjoy a cheese platter as a snack or appetizer.

• Leafy Greens: Include biotin-rich leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard in your salads, smoothies, or cooked dishes like stir-fries and soups to boost vitamins and minerals.

• Whole Grain Goodness: Opt for whole grains like oats, barley, and wheat germ, which are rich in biotin and provide fibre and other nutrients. Enjoy them as breakfast cereals, in soups, salads, or as a side dish with main meals.

• Yoghurt and Dairy: Yoghurt and other dairy products like milk and cheese contain biotin. Incorporate yoghurt into smoothies, enjoy it with fruits and nuts, or use it as a base for sauces and dips.

Lack of B7 in the body may lead to various health issues. Below are a few symptoms to identify in case of vitamin B7 deficiency:

• Hair Loss: Vitamin B7, known as biotin, is crucial in maintaining healthy hair follicles. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to hair loss or thinning hair. This symptom often manifests as gradual hair thinning or significant shedding over time.
• Dry, Scaly Skin: Due to its role in fatty acid synthesis, biotin deficiency can result in dry, flaky skin. Without enough biotin, the skin may lose moisture and become irritated, creating a rough, scaly texture. This symptom is often accompanied by itching and discomfort.
• Brittle Nails: Healthy nails rely on adequate levels of biotin for strength and resilience. A deficiency can easily make brittle nails prone to splitting, cracking, and breaking. This symptom may result in overall nail weakness and slow growth.
• Fatigue: Biotin converts food into energy, and a deficiency can lead to fatigue and lethargy. Without enough biotin to support energy production, people may experience decreased stamina and motivation, leading to persistent tiredness.
• Muscle Pain: Biotin deficiency may cause muscle pain or muscle cramps due to its involvement in carbohydrate and protein metabolism. Inadequate levels of biotin can disrupt these processes, leading to muscle weakness, stiffness, and discomfort.
• Depression: Biotin is involved in neurotransmitter synthesis, and low levels may impact brain function and mood regulation, leading to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and irritability.
• Tingling in the Extremities: Peripheral neuropathy, characterised by tingling, numbness, or weakness in the hands and feet, can result from biotin deficiency. Biotin helps in nerve signalling and function, and insufficient levels may lead to nerve damage and dysfunction.
• Impaired Immune Function: Biotin maintains a healthy immune system by supporting the production and function of white blood cells. A deficiency can weaken the immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
• Nausea and Loss of Appetite: Biotin deficiency may cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and a loss of appetite. These symptoms can further increase nutrient deficiencies and contribute to overall malaise and weakness.

Vitamin B7, or biotin deficiency, can pose several health risks due to its role in various bodily functions. Some of the health risks associated with vitamin B7 deficiency include:

• Peripheral neuropathy, characterised by tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hands and feet, can result from biotin deficiency. 

• Biotin deficiency has been linked to symptoms of depression and mood disturbances.

• Inadequate biotin levels lead to fatigue, muscle weakness, and decreased stamina.

• Biotin deficiency can weaken immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

• Biotin deficiency may contribute to dyslipidemia, characterised by elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. 

• Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite can occur with biotin deficiency. 

• Pregnant women with biotin deficiency may give birth to infants with developmental abnormalities, including neurological and skeletal defects.

While vitamin B7, or biotin, is generally considered safe in moderate doses, excessive intake can lead to some side effects. These may include:

• Skin Rashes: Excessive biotin intake may cause skin reactions such as acne or rashes. This is more commonly seen with high doses of biotin supplements.
• Digestive Issues: Some people may experience digestive discomforts like nausea, cramping, or diarrhoea when consuming excessive amounts of biotin supplements.
• Interference with Lab Tests: High levels of biotin in the blood can interfere with specific laboratory tests, leading to false results. This can affect tests used to measure hormone levels, thyroid function, and cardiac biomarkers.
• Increase of B12 Deficiency: Biotin supplementation can mask symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. 
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: In rare cases, people may experience allergic reactions to biotin supplements, including swelling, itching, or difficulty breathing.

Water-soluble vitamin B7, often known as biotin, aids in the body's metabolism of protein, lipids, and carbs. Among other things, it supports the upkeep of healthy nerves, skin, hair, and nails. Since the body cannot store water-soluble vitamins, daily consumption is required. It is well known that ascorbic acid and iron supplements can interact with biotin. 

Although the body can withstand high amounts of biotin, some adverse consequences, such as inflammation and delayed coagulation, may occur. It is best to see a physician before taking any medication. Consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage for a particular disease.

A biotin diet can help you attain stronger nails, healthier hair and skin, and improved metabolism and gut health. By nourishing your body with biotin rich foods, you can also improve your appearance and feel better about yourself. Incorporating vitamin B7 rich foods in your diet will give you a healthy lifestyle.