Vitamin B2

Vitamin B2:

vitamin-b2Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, is one of eight B vitamins. B vitamins are essential for many bodily functions, including energy production, cell growth, and nervous system function.

Vitamin B2 is a water-soluble vitamin, which means that it is not stored in the body and must be consumed regularly. It is found in a variety of foods, including dairy products, meat, eggs, poultry, fish, whole grains, legumes, and leafy green vegetables.

Vitamin B2 plays a role in many important bodily functions, including:

Energy production: Vitamin B2 is a cofactor for several enzymes that are involved in the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy.

Cell growth: Vitamin B2 is essential for the production of new cells and the repair of damaged cells.

Nervous system function: Vitamin B2 is important for the production and maintenance of myelin, a substance that insulates nerve fibers.

Red blood cell production: Vitamin B2 is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

Antioxidant protection: Vitamin B2 helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

A deficiency in vitamin B2 can lead to a variety of health problems, including:

Fatigue

Weakness

Muscle cramps

Skin problems, such as dermatitis and cheilosis (cracking at the corners of the mouth)

Tongue problems, such as glossitis (red, swollen tongue) and angular stomatitis (cracking at the corners of the mouth)

Eye problems, such as photophobia (sensitivity to light) and keratitis (inflammation of the cornea)

The recommended daily intake of vitamin B2 for adults is 1.3 milligrams for men and 1.1 milligrams for women. Pregnant and breastfeeding women need more vitamin B2, 1.4 and 1.6 milligrams per day, respectively.

Most people can get enough vitamin B2 from their diet. However, people who are at risk for vitamin B2 deficiency include:

People who eat a lot of processed foods

People who have digestive disorders, such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease

People who are taking certain medications, such as diuretics and anticonvulsants

People who are pregnant or breastfeeding

If you are concerned that you may not be getting enough vitamin B2 from your diet, you can talk to your health practitioner about taking a vitamin B2 supplement.

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