What is Riboflavin
Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is a vital nutrient that plays several crucial roles in the human body. Here are some key points about riboflavin:
Functions and Importance
- Riboflavin is essential for energy metabolism, helping the body convert carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into fuel (glucose) that is used to produce energy45.
- It is involved in the formation of two major coenzymes, flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), which are critical for cell respiration, antibody production, and the metabolism of other vitamins like vitamin B6 and folate34.
- Riboflavin is necessary for the proper development and maintenance of the skin, lining of the digestive tract, blood cells, and brain function24.
Sources
- Riboflavin is widely available in both plant- and animal-based foods, including milk, meat, eggs, nuts, enriched flour, green vegetables, mushrooms, and almonds23.
Deficiency
- A deficiency in riboflavin, known as ariboflavinosis, is rare but can occur, especially in individuals with poor diets, such as the elderly and alcoholics. Symptoms include itching and burning eyes, sensitivity to light, sore tongue, itching and peeling skin, and sores in the mouth45.
Uses and Effectiveness
- Riboflavin is effective in treating and preventing riboflavin deficiency23.
- It may also be effective in reducing high levels of homocysteine in the blood (hyperhomocysteinemia) and in modestly reducing the number and severity of migraine headaches in adults23.
Antioxidant Properties
- Riboflavin acts as an antioxidant, helping to fight damaging free radicals that can harm cells and DNA, potentially reducing the risk of conditions such as heart disease and cancer4.
Other Uses
- While riboflavin is sometimes used for conditions like acne, muscle cramps, and certain types of anemia, there is no strong scientific evidence to support these uses25.