GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Found in milk, cheese and yogurt (rich sources), along with liver, kidney, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, bran, wheat germ, lentils, beans,
peanuts, soybeans, green leafy vegetables and fruit. Vitamin
B2 decomposes upon exposure to heat and light. Thus, milk,
which is a major source of vitamin B2, will have reduced levels of the vitamin if it is left in
bright light or sunlight for long periods. Supplementary
vitamin B2 may be useful in people with severe burns, chronic diarrhea, cirrhosis of the
liver, alcoholism, and cancer.
ROLE IN ANTI-AGING:
Vitamin B2 is vital for the formation of FAD
(flavin adenine dinucleotide) and FMN (flavin mononucleotide), both of which are essential for
metabolising carbohydrates, proteins, and fats and make
energy available in the body. The vitamin is also important
to maintain metabolism and for the health and proper
functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. It also protects against freeradical damage
and is necessary for good vision, skin, hair, and nails.
Physical exercise increases the body’s need for vitamin B2.
Research also suggests that vitamin B2 may help to prevent or slow the development of cataracts,
and reduce the frequency of migraines.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
Symptoms include cheilosis or cracks and sores in the corners of the mouth; frayed or scaling
lips; inflamed tongue with purplish or magenta color; eczema
or seborrhea; flaking skin around the nose, eyebrows, chin,
cheeks, earlobes or hairline; oily appearance of nose, chin and forehead with fatty deposits
accumulating under the skin; bloodshot, watering, itching,
burning, fatigued eyes with a keen sensitivity to light;
increase in cataract formation; nervous symptoms
such as “pins and needles” sensation, difficulty
walking, muscular weakness, trembling and a lack of stamina or vigor; behavioral changes
such as depression, moodiness, nervousness, and
irritability. Results of a study published in 2000 revealed
that pregnant women with a vitamin B2 deficiency
may be at higher risk of developing the
dangerous condition pre-eclampsia.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
women.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:
200mg (long and short term)
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Patients taking propantheline, phenothiazines,
tricyclic antidepressants, or probenecid should seek medical advice before supplementing their diet
with vitamin B2.
SOLUBILITY:
soluble
