Vitamin B2
Riboflavin
Description
Vitamin B2 is involved in transforming carbohydrates into energy and metabolizing fat and protein. It is also essential for normal nerve and heart function, growth, reproduction and is needed to activate vitamin B6, niacin, folate and vitamin K.
It has an antioxidant effect and helps process and eliminate medications.
Its absorption is inversely proportional to the quantity consumed.
Sources
Liver is a very rich source of vitamin B2.
Other major sources are egg whites, milk and dairy products, green leafy vegetables, meat, fish and poultry, whole grain and fortified cereal and bread.
Approximate Vitamin B2 Content | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Although cooking does not alter vitamin B2, light can break it down.
Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA)
Recommended average daily nutrient intake that is sufficient to meet the nutrient requirements of nearly all (97 to 98%) healthy individuals in each age and gender group. The RDA should only be used as a guide for daily individual intake.
Vitamin B2 Requirements | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The average North American diet consists of 2.7 mg of vitamin B2 per day.
Deficiency
Vitamin B2 deficiency in Canada is rare and usually occurs with deficiencies of other B vitamins.
A deficiency can cause anemia, seborrheic dermatitis, tongue pain, loss of visual acuity, light sensitivity and infection in the corners of the mouth.
Toxicity
There have been no reports of toxicity involving vitamin B2.
Supplements
Generally speaking, supplements are not necessary. Since any excess is eliminated through the urine, they make the urine fluorescent yellow.
Doses of 400 mg per day have been used in migraine prevention but evidence is limited.
Watch what you eat. Nutrition has a significant impact on health!
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The patient information leaflets are provided by Vigilance Santé Inc. This content is for information purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever replace the opinion or advice of your health care professional. Always consult a health care professional before making a decision about your medication or treatment.