Vitamin B2:
Vitamin B2 or Riboflavin
Vitamin B2, or riboflavin, is a member of the Vitamin B complex. These vitamins are vital to the functioning of the body in many ways.
Vitamin B2 is an essential part of the fundamentals of the blood. It works in the production of red blood cells, the means by which oxygen is transported through the circulatory system. It is also crucial in the production of antibodies and the body's absorption of iron. It helps the digestive system by making use of the energy potential in carbohydrates. It protects the health of the mucus membranes, especially those that act within the digestive process to keep consumed foods moving smoothly through the digestive tract. It is a cofactor or partner in the metabolism of amino acids, fatty acids, and certain proteins.
Because riboflavin plays a role in the regulation of the thyroid, it is important to normal growth and development, as well as to the growth of the reproductive system. Vitamin B2 serves as a cofactor to Vitamin B6, which could not be active within the body without Vitamin B2, helping in making niacin useful to the body. It also plays a role in adrenal gland function. It is important to tissue repair in the body, and helps keep the skin healthy, as well as the hair, the fingernails, and the 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 some 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 are dizziness, slowed mental processes, and insomnia.
Children, depending on size and weight, need between .6mg to .9mg of Vitamin B2 daily. Adult males generally need about 1.3mg per day of Vitamin B2. Adult females require 1.1mg and should increase the daily dosage to 1.5mg if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Some natural ways of getting B2 or riboflavin are mushrooms, liver, spinach, leafy green vegetables, and collard greens.
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