Disclaimer: This content has been produced purely for informational and educational purposes only and is never intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical guidelines including diagnosis, advice, and treatment. 

 

Though both biotin and B12 are from the same group of vitamins that are B vitamins, when we compare the effects of biotin vs B12 on the human body, we find their ways of function are quite different, but at the same time correlated to each other, to an extent.  

While these two vitamins work cohesively to produce energy in cells, vitamin B12 plays an important role in the development and function of vital body parts including the nerve, brain, and blood cells. But surprisingly, these effects of B12 can only take place when the presence of an adequate amount of biotin is ensured. Wanna know how these two vitamins benefit the human body? Continue reading. 

In this article, we’ll be comparing the effects and benefits of biotin vs B12 according to research findings. But before we get into how biotin and B12 benefit human health, it’s worth knowing the basics of these two vitamins a little bit more. So, let’s get started. 

Table of contents 

• What is biotin and what does it do in the body?
• What is vitamin B12 and what does it do in the body? 
• Biotin vs B12: benefits and uses   
• Precautions and side effects 
• Final words 

What is biotin and what does it do in the body?

Biotin, otherwise known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, is an important part of the group of B vitamins that help the body metabolize foods and produce energy. It has an important role in assisting enzymes that break down various food substances such as carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids and convert them into fuel which is eventually used to create energy in the boy.  

The human gut can make biotin with the help of certain bacteria but like all other B vitamins, it is water-soluble, meaning the human body cannot store it. For this reason, regular intake of biotin must be ensured. Small amounts are found in certain foods like bananas, eggs, milk, organ meats, nuts, seeds, and certain vegetables. It is also available as a biotin supplement. 

What is vitamin B12 and what does it do in the body? 

Vitamin B12, otherwise known as cobalamin, is also an important part of the group of B vitamins. It plays a critical role in the development and function of many organ systems, particularly the blood, nerves, and brain cells. It’s also crucial for the synthesis of DNA, the genetic substance found in all cells. 

Vitamin B12 is considered an essential nutrient, meaning the human body needs it but cannot make it on its own. Therefore, people must take it through diets or supplements. 

It naturally occurs in certain animal foods such as beef liver, poultry, eggs, milk, and fish. Plant foods usually do not contain this nutrient and hence, vitamin B12 supplements are good options for vegans, vegetarians, or those who otherwise for any reason want to avoid animal foods.    

Biotin vs B12: benefits and uses 

Biotin benefits and uses

Deficiency of biotin is associated with hair loss or thinning of the hair, brittle nails, scaly red rash around the mouth, nose, and eyes, as well as others. Biotin supplements are commonly used to treat the deficiency and its associated symptoms.    

Hair growth, nail and skin issues 

Since low biotin levels are mostly associated with hair, skin, and nail conditions, biotin supplements are commonly used to treat and prevent the thinning of hair, hair loss, brittle nails, and various skin symptoms such as dry scaly skin and rash on the face. 

Biotin, combined with other nutrients such as iron and zinc, is also used to treat alopecia areata in both adults as well as children. 

Other biotin benefits  

Biotin has been found to produce positive effects in the treatment of: 

• Diabetes
• Peripheral neuropathy 
• Multiple sclerosis 

Vitamin B12 benefits and uses 

Megaloblastic anemia, a specific kind of anemia that is characterized by excessive weakness and fatigue, is the hallmark of the deficiency of vitamin B12. Other B12 deficiency symptoms include canker sores, poor memory, issues with balance, confusion, and depression. B12 supplements have been found to be helpful to treat and prevent these conditions. 

Sleep and brain health 

Vitamin B12 deficiency may lead to disturbed sleep cycles and poor sleep quality. It is crucial for protecting nerve cells in the brain and also plays a vital role in the synthesis of melatonin, a hormone that has a key role in regulating circadian rhythms. This is the main reason why B12 is commonly used to promote sleep and overall brain health, often in combination with melatonin. 

Other B12 benefits 

B12 has been assumed to be helpful in several other conditions as well, including: 

• Anemia and low levels of red blood cells 
• Birth defects 
• Macular degeneration and vision loss 
• Decreased bone density and osteoporosis
• Decreased focus and cognitive function 
• Memory loss and dementia 
• Anxiety, irritation, and depression 
• Alzheimer's disease
• Increased levels of homocysteine 
• Cyanide poisoning  

Precautions and side effects 

Both biotin and vitamin B12 are water-soluble and when the human body finds extra of these nutrients it simply passes them through urination. Therefore, there are no risks of toxicity and most people can easily handle these supplements. 

However, some people may experience side effects. Common side effects of biotin include nausea and digestive problems. And common side effects of B12 include headache, fatigue, tingling sensation in hands and feet, and gastrointestinal discomfort. But these are not common. 

Like all supplements, biotin and B12 may interact with certain medications. It’s always best to have a conversation with a certified naturopathic doctor before starting any supplements. 

Final words 

When we compare the benefits and uses of biotin vs B12, biotin is commonly used to treat hair, nail, and skin conditions, whereas B12 is commonly used to promote sleep and brain health. But both have a lot more other benefits and uses as well. Consider consulting with a qualified naturopath before starting biotin and B12 supplements.

Here you can see Vorst’s special Hair Growth Formula with Biotin Capsules 

Here you can see Vorst’s pure and natural Vitamin B12 with Melatonin Capsules  

Important resources: 

1. https://www.b12-vitamin.com/biotin/
2. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-313/biotin
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/the-benefits-of-biotin#food-sources
4. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Biotin-HealthProfessional/#:~:text=Foods%20that%20contain%20the%20most,)%20%5B2%2C12%5D.
5. https://www.verywellhealth.com/biotin-for-hair-growth-89236
6. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/supplement/vitamin-h-biotin
7. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-926/vitamin-b12
8. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-Consumer/#:~:text=Vitamin%20B12%20is%20a%20nutrient,makes%20people%20tired%20and%20weak.
9. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-vitamin-b12
10. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-b12-benefits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_11
11. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/219822#deficiency-symptoms
12. https://www.verywellhealth.com/vitamin-b12-5083479