Biotin is a B-complex vitamin (B7) that helps your body turn food into energy. It also supports hair, skin, and nail health. People often take it when diet or pregnancy leaves them low in this nutrient.
Take one daily dose with a meal for better absorption. Most use it to maintain normal hair and nail growth. Evidence for benefits beyond correcting a shortfall remains slim.
Watch out for lab test interference. Biotin can skew results for thyroid hormones and troponin, among others. Tell your healthcare provider you take it before any blood work. Standard doses are safe, but high supplement amounts throw tests off.