Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin,
is a member of the group of eight vitamins that make up the nutritional
powerhouse known as the Vitamin B complex. These vitamins are vital
to the functioning of the body in almost every way, playing important
roles in each of the bodily systems. In addition to their powerful
influence on the physical health of the body, the Vitamin B complex
is essential to mental functioning, including cognition and the
stability of emotional response. Vitamin B2 has many roles in human
health and functioning.
Vitamin B2 is an essential part of the fundamental
workings of the blood. It serves in the production of red
blood cells, the
means by which oxygen, vital to every cell in the body, is
transported through the circulatory system. It is also
essential in the production
of antibodies and the body’s absorption of iron. It serves
the digestive system by helping the body to make use of the
energy potential in carbohydrates. It serves to protect the
health of
the mucus membranes, especially those that act within the
digestive process to keep the foods consumed moving smoothly
through the
digestive tract. It is a cofactor, or partner, in the metabolism
of amino acids, fatty acids, and certain proteins.
Because it plays a role in the regulation of the activity of the
thyroid, it is important to normal growth and development, as well
as to the reproductive system. Vitamin B2 serves as a cofactor
to Vitamin B6, which could not be active within the body without
Vitamin B2, in many processes and also helps in making niacin useful
to the body. It also has a role in adrenal gland function. It is
important to tissue repair in the body, and helps to keep the skin
healthy, as well as the hair and the fingernails and toenails.
It is essential to good vision, and may play a role in the prevention
of cataracts.
Deficiency in Vitamin B2, or riboflavin, can cause a variety of
physical and mental symptoms. Among these are skin disorders that
range from simple dermatitis to open sores on the internal and
external parts of the mouth, inflammation of the inner mouth and
tongue, hair loss, slow or retarded growth, vision problems, itching,
burning and watering of eyes, digestive difficulties, tremors,
and oily skin. Mental symptoms include dizziness, slowed mental
processes, and insomnia, which can serve to make any and all of
the other symptoms much feel worse. Children, depending on size
and weight, need between .6mg to .9mg of Vitamin B2 per day. Adult
males generally need about 1.3mg daily of Vitamin B2. Adult females
require 1.1mg daily, and should increase the daily dosage to 1.5mg
if pregnant or breastfeeding.
The Vitamin B complex nutrients are essential to the functioning
and health of the body and the mind, and it is important to avoid
deficiencies. Nutritional supplements serve as a safe and effective
means of guaranteeing that your body has the Vitamin B2 that it
needs each and every day.
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