Another important member in the family of B-complex vitamins is biotin, or as it commonly referred to as, Vitamin H. Biotin functions as a coenzyme (R), which is significant in a number of metabolic processes. Coenzyme R is referred to as Carboxybiotin and is responsible for processes of carbohydrate oxidation and fatty-acid synthesis. Biotin also provides for the production of antibodies and enzymes. It is also responsible for metabolizing Vitamin B3 (niacin).

The body’s supply of biotin is primarily found in those tissues that provide for metabolic activities. Bacteria in our small intestines also produce varying amounts of biotin. However, because biotin is not readily absorbed, this bacterial source is not reliable for adequate dietary needs. Because Vitamin H is water soluble, it must be obtained from external dietary sources.

Of particular interest are glycoproteins, which are formed from a sugar and protein molecule. There is a specific glycoprotein named Avidin, which dramatically diminishes our abilities to absorb biotin for use in our systems. This would only be of major concern if our dietary intake of raw egg whites exceeded six per day. Therefore, deficiencies of Vitamin H are very unlikely to occur.