Why do we need vitamin B8 (Biotin)?

Vitamin B8 (Biotin) is a water soluble vitamin necessary for the proper metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also required in a number of biochemical reactions necessary for energy production.

Signs and symptoms of Biotin deficiency:
Hair loss
Loss of hair color
Fatigue
Muscle pain
Graying of the skin
Dermatitis.
Brittle nails
Nausea
Neuropathy (numbness and tingling of the hands and feet)
Depression.

Vitamin B8 has an association with the following diseases:
Epilepsy
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders
Auto-immune disease.
Multiple Carboxylase Deficiency Syndrome (MCD an inborn error of metabolism)
SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome)
Cardiac Irregularities
Dermatitis
Depression.

Prescription medications that may deplete Vitamin B8 (Biotin):
Antibiotic use
Antiepileptic medications such as phenytoin
Sulfa medications
Alcohol.
Possibly Caffeine
Avidin (a protein in raw eggs will inhibit biotins absorption).

Laboratory Testing for vitamin B8 (Biotin):
Lymphocyte proliferation
Low hemoglobin levels
Urine metabolites
Increase in blood lactate levels.

Vitamin B8 Food sources:
Peanuts
Strawberries
Watermelon
Milk
Liver.