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Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) Benefits and Signs of Deficiency
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Benefits and Functions of Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): |
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Vitamin B2, is a water-soluble nutrient which functions to help body cells create energy from the metabolization of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.. It works in tandem with other B vitamins, and some nutrients need riboflavin to metabolize propertly, such as changing Tryptophan (an amino acid) into Niacin (Vitamin B3). Riboflavin is critical for normal growth and repair. It is needed to facilitate normal reproduction, cell growth and repair, and development of tissues. The body utilizes vitamin B2 to keep tissue health and to help accelerate healing of injuries. It is required for red blood cell production. Along with iron, vitamin B2 is an essential nutrient for the production of red blood cells, which are responsible for the transport of oxygen throughout the body. Riboflavin acts to help the immune system function properly. It bolsters the immune system by reinforcing the body's reserve of antibodies, which guard against infection. Vitamin B2 helps to promote and maintain healthy skin. Riboflavin acts to to improve the secretion of mucus in the skin, which may help to clear up rosacea. It is also used to prevent and treat skin problems such as dermatitis and eczema. Vitamin B2, along with some other nutrients, is vital for healthy vision and for preventing cataracts. Along with other B vitamins, vitamin B2 helps to protect the nervous system. It could be a component of treating various nervous system disorders, including anxiety, numbness and tingling, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. |
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A vitamin B2 deficiency is rare, but can happen to those who suffer from chronic liver disease, or those who chronically abuse alcohol. A deficiency can have major impacts on the metabolization of carbohydrates, fat, and protein into energy. This can result in weakness or fatigue. A deficiency will primarily manifest in the skin and in the mucous membranes. The initial symptoms of a deficiency are a sore throat and the appearance of sores and cracks located at the corners of the mouth. General characteristic signs of a vitamin B2 deficiency can include lesions on the skin (particularly at the corners of the mouth), and a sore, red, or burning tongue. As symptoms get worse, the tongue and throat may become a swollen or inflamed. A deficiency can lead to various problems with the skin, such as dry, flaky, cracked skin and seborrheic dermatitis (scaly/flaky skin located on the scalp, face, or body). It could also cause hair to be dull or oily, oily skin, wrinkling of the skin on the arms and face, and splitting of finger and toenails. A deficiency of vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) can lead to eye disorders including bloodshot eyes, burning eyes, cataracts or increased sensitivity to bright light. It can also result in anemia and possibly impaired nervous system function. |
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There is little to no risk of vitamin B2 toxicity. Since it is water-soluble, extra amounts of the vitamin can easily be disposed of by the body via urine. Some possible reactions to extremely high doses of the vitamin could include itching, numbness, burning or tingling sensations, and being sensitive to light. Excessive vitamin B2 excreted through urine results in it being a bright, flourescent yellow color. Many who take a B vitamin supplement notice this. |
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