Vitamin B2 is also referred to as Riboflavin. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is flushed out of the body daily, so it must be restored each day. The best way to get this vitamin is by eating foods that are rich in riboflavin such as eggs, nuts, dairy products, meats, broccoli, brewer's yeast, Brussels sprouts, wheat germ, wild rice, mushrooms, soybeans, green leafy vegetables and whole grain and enriched cereals and bread.
Riboflavin is a vitamin that is needed for overall good health. It helps the body break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats to produce energy, and it allows oxygen to be used by the body.
Riboflavin is also used for the development and function of the skin, lining of the digestive tract, blood cells and other vital organs. It is important for eye health. This vitamin is needed to protect the important antioxidant, glutathione, therefore, eating a diet rich in riboflavin can lower the risk of developing cataracts. Taking supplements containing riboflavin and niacin may also be helpful in preventing cataracts.
Riboflavin is important for how the body processes iron. Without it, research shows that the body is more likely to develop anemia.
Those suffering from migraines may find that taking doses of B2 may help. A study found that those taking high doses of riboflavin had significantly fewer migraines.
Symptoms of a B2 deficiency include:
Cracks or sores in corner of mouth
Reddish-purple colored tongue
Shiny, sore or swollen tongue
Lips red, white, scaly, swollen or chapped
Conjunctivitis
Cataracts
Sensation of "sand" under eyelids
Eyes sensitive to light
Blurred or dimmed vision
Eyes red, itchy, burning
Red lines in whites of eyes
See spots before eyes
Abnormally greasy or scaly skin around nose
Falling hair, abnormal hair loss
Oily hair
Loss of fullness of upper lip
Wrinkles radiating from lips towards nose/cheeks
Migraines
Anemia
Supplementary range: 50 – 100 mg daily.
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