Tag: RIBOFLAVIN

Posted in NUTRIENTS

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

What does riboflavin do? B complex vitamins are necessary for a healthy liver, skin, hair, eyes, and nervous system. Riboflavin (B2) in particular has these benefits:

  • Antioxidant. Riboflavin works as an antioxidant, fighting damaging particles in the body known as free radicals, which may contribute to the aging process, as well as the development of a number of health conditions like heart disease and cancer.
  • Growth and red blood cell production. Riboflavin is also needed to help the body change vitamin B6 and folate into forms it can use. It is also important for growth and red blood cell production.
  • Good vision and cataract prevention. Vitamin B2 is important for normal vision. Early studies suggest that it might help prevent cataracts.
  • Migraine relief. Several studies suggest that people who get migraines may reduce how often they get migraines and how long the migraines last by taking riboflavin.

How much do I need? The average recommended daily amount for adults is 1.3 milligrams. All B vitamins are water soluble, meaning the body does not store them, so they must be consumed daily in food or supplements. Riboflavin is destroyed by light, so food should be stored away from light to protect its riboflavin content. While riboflavin is not destroyed by heat, it can be lost in water when foods are boiled or soaked. Roasting and steaming foods preserves more riboflavin than frying or scalding your foods.

What are some good plant food sources of riboflavin? ALMONDS, WHOLE GRAINS, WHEAT GERM, WILD RICE, MUSHROOMS, SOYBEANS, BROCCOLI, BRUSSELS SPROUTS, SPINACH and BREWER’S YEAST are a few good plant food sources of Vitamin B2 (riboflavin).

Are supplements recommended? Most healthy people who eat a well-balanced diet get enough riboflavin. However, elderly people and alcoholics may be at risk for riboflavin deficiency because of poor diet. Consult a doctor before using supplements to prevent allergic reactions and interactions with medicines.

Source: Mount Sinai

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