Dr. Ashraf Ullah

Introduction: The Power Trio for Health 🇵🇰

In Pakistan, three key nutrients—zinc, folic acid, and biotin—are gaining significant attention for their vital roles in overall health. From boosting your immune system to promoting strong, healthy hair, skin, and nails, these nutrients are essential for well-being.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the uses, benefits, and market trends for these three nutrients in Pakistan. We’ll also provide price comparisons, trusted brand recommendations, and a buying guide tailored for cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. With this information, you’ll be equipped to make informed decisions about your health in 2025.

Zinc: The Essential Mineral for Immunity and Growth

Zinc is a critical trace mineral that plays a key role in hundreds of enzyme reactions in the body. It’s essential for strengthening your immune system, supporting the growth of tissues, promoting skin health, and improving cognitive function.

Zinc Deficiency in Pakistan

Zinc deficiency is widespread in Pakistan, especially among women of reproductive age and children. Factors such as poor diets lacking adequate animal protein, low awareness, and economic constraints contribute to this issue. Local health reports suggest that 30% to 40% of women in Pakistan are zinc-deficient, affecting both maternal health and child development. Signs of zinc deficiency include frequent infections, slow wound healing, hair thinning, and delayed growth in children.

Zinc-Rich Foods and Supplements

In Pakistan, a variety of foods are naturally rich in zinc. Some of the best sources include meat, poultry, and seafood (like oysters, crab, and shrimp), especially in coastal cities such as Karachi. Other zinc-rich foods include dairy products, legumes, and seeds.

When it’s difficult to get enough zinc from food, supplements are a great alternative. Zinc is available in several forms, including zinc sulfate, zinc gluconate, and zinc picolinate. When purchasing zinc supplements, always look for products that are approved by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).

Folic Acid (Vitamin B9): Crucial for New Cell Formation

Folic acid, also known as Vitamin B9, is a water-soluble vitamin that helps in creating and maintaining new cells. It is particularly important during times of rapid growth such as pregnancy and childhood, and it also helps in producing healthy red blood cells and preventing anemia.

The Importance of Folic Acid in Pakistan

Folic acid deficiency is common in Pakistan, due to diets that are high in rice and wheat but lack leafy vegetables and fortified foods. Folic acid provides several health benefits, such as:

• Preventing birth defects during pregnancy
• Supporting heart health by regulating homocysteine levels
• Boosting brain function and memory
• Enhancing mood and reducing the risk of depression
• Improving the health of hair, skin, and nails

Folic acid is recommended for women planning to conceive, and it is commonly included in prenatal vitamins.

Folic Acid Prices and Available Brands

In Pakistan, folic acid tablets are available in a wide price range:

• Local brands like Zafa Folic Acid (priced between PKR 150–250 per pack)
• Mid-range brands such as Nutrifactor (ranging from PKR 300–400)
• Imported brands like Solgar and Nature’s Bounty (ranging from PKR 500–1,000)

To ensure you’re purchasing genuine products, always buy from trusted pharmacies or reputable online stores.

Biotin (Vitamin B7): The Superstar for Hair, Skin, and Nails

Biotin, also known as Vitamin B7, is an essential water-soluble vitamin that helps your body metabolize fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. It is most well-known for its role in producing keratin, the protein that makes up your hair, skin, and nails.

Biotin Benefits

Regular biotin supplementation can:

• Improve hair thickness and reduce shedding
• Strengthen brittle nails
• Support skin hydration and overall skin health

The Synergy of Biotin, Zinc, and Folic Acid

Many supplements combine biotin, zinc, and folic acid to maximize their effectiveness. For instance, BioHair Plus Tablets combine these three ingredients to improve scalp health, reduce dandruff, and enhance hair strength.

• Zinc promotes scalp health and reduces hair fall.
• Folic acid ensures proper circulation to the scalp, which nourishes the hair follicles.

This powerful combination creates the ideal environment for healthy hair growth.

Biotin Prices and Available Brands

Biotin tablets vary in price depending on the brand:

• Generic brands: Available for PKR 500–1,200
• Mid-range brands: Priced between PKR 1,500–2,200
• Premium brands: Costing PKR 2,500–3,500
• BioHair Plus Tablets provide a balanced mix of 2,500 mcg of biotin, 15 mg of zinc, and 800 mcg of folic acid for under PKR 2,000, making it an affordable choice for premium care.

BioHair Plus Tablets – The Complete Solution for Healthy Hair, Skin, and Nails

Price: PKR 1,490
Available at: PrimeMall.pk

Why Choose BioHair Plus Tablets?

• Powerful Combination: Each tablet contains 2,500 mcg of Biotin, 15 mg of Zinc, and 800 mcg of Folic Acid—a complete formula for stronger hair, healthier skin, and stronger nails.
• Affordable & Convenient: At only PKR 1,490, BioHair Plus offers great value with an easy-to-follow dosage of one tablet per day.
• Trusted Brand: Manufactured by Prime Max, a trusted name in health supplements.
• Available Online: Purchase from PrimeMall.pk and enjoy fast delivery across Pakistan.

Geo-Specific Buying Guide: Where to Find Supplements in Pakistan

No matter where you are in Pakistan, you can find trusted sources for your supplements:

• Karachi: Visit pharmacies like D.Watson or shop online at PrimeMall.pk for fast delivery.
• Lahore: You can find these supplements in health stores across Liberty Market and Mall Road. But for more options and better prices, consider online shopping.
• Islamabad & Rawalpindi: Pharmacies in Blue Area and F-10 carry many brands, though online shopping ensures greater variety and better deals.
• Smaller Cities: For areas like Faisalabad, Peshawar, and Multan, online shopping is recommended to ensure you get authentic products at competitive prices.

Conclusion: Your Health, Your Choice in 2025

Zinc, folic acid, and biotin are more than just beauty supplements; they are essential nutrients that play an important role in your overall health. By incorporating them into your diet or supplement regimen, you can significantly improve your immune health, support growth and development, and enhance your hair, skin, and nail health in Pakistan.

Always consult a healthcare provider to ensure you’re getting the right dosage and the best possible results.

References

Zinc Deficiency in Pakistan:
Ahmad, M., Ali, S., & Zubair, S. (2024). Prevalence of Zinc Deficiency in Women and Children in Rural Areas of Pakistan. Journal of Nutritional Science, 17(7), 1137. https://doi.org/10.3390/jns17071137

Folic Acid Deficiency in Pakistan:
UNICEF & Ministry of National Health Services, Regulation and Coordination (2025). Folic Acid Deficiency and Iron Deficiency in Women of Reproductive Age in Pakistan. United Nations Children's Fund. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39935308/

Biotin Deficiency in Pakistan:
Ali, H., Khan, A., & Sheikh, M. (2024). Molecular Basis of Biotinidase Deficiency in Pakistani Children: A Study of Biotin-responsive Multiple Carboxylase Deficiency (MCD). Biochemical Genetics, 48(5), 712-718. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37751899/

Biotin Supplementation for Hair Growth:
Shams, S., & Kiani, M. (2024). Role of Biotin in Hair Growth and Skin Health in Pakistan: A Review of Current Practices and Market Trends. Journal of Dermatological Science, 30(4), 160-165. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/361232529_Biotin-responsive_Multiple_Carboxylase_Deficiency_MCD