What is vitamin B2 and what role does it play in the body?
Vitamin B2, or riboflavin, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates, and for maintaining energy in the body.
What are the dietary sources of vitamin B2?
Dietary sources of riboflavin include milk, cheese, eggs, lean meats, green leafy vegetables, nuts and fortified cereals.
What are the signs of vitamin B2 deficiency?
Symptoms of riboflavin deficiency can include cracked corners of the mouth, inflammation of the tongue and throat, dry lips, flaky skin, and increased sensitivity to light.
How much vitamin B2 should I consume daily?
The recommended daily intake of vitamin B2 varies according to age, sex and other conditions, such as pregnancy or breast-feeding.
Can vitamin B2 be toxic if overdosed?
As vitamin B2 is water-soluble, overdosing is rare, as excess is generally eliminated through the urine. However, excessive consumption can sometimes lead to undesirable effects.
Is vitamin B2 important during pregnancy?
Yes, riboflavin is essential during pregnancy for the development of the foetus and can help prevent certain complications.
Is vitamin B2 available in dietary supplements?
Yes, vitamin B2 is available in supplement form, often in combination with other B-complex vitamins.
Does vitamin B2 have any known interactions with drugs?
Certain medications can affect the absorption of vitamin B2, and vice versa. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before combining supplements with medications.
How does vitamin B2 influence the body's energy levels?
Riboflavin plays a key role in the conversion of food into energy and in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.
Do vegetarians and vegans need to worry about their vitamin B2 intake?
Vegetarians, and especially vegans, need to pay close attention to their vitamin B2 intake, as the main sources are often of animal origin. Supplements may be an option for these groups.
Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, is one of the essential B-complex vitamins. It plays an important role in the body's overall health. Riboflavin contributes to normal energy metabolism, maintenance of normal mucous membranes, maintenance of healthy skin, maintenance of normal red blood cells, protection of cells against oxidative stress, and maintenance of normal vision.
It is found naturally in a variety of foods, including meat, eggs, dairy products, nuts, certain green vegetables and fortified cereals. Daily vitamin B2 requirements vary according to age, gender and other factors. Riboflavin deficiency can lead to a variety of health problems, such as skin lesions, mucous membrane damage, sensitivity to light and red eyes.
Vitamin B2 supplements are also available for those who may have difficulty obtaining enough of this vitamin in their diet. However, it's always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting a new supplement, especially if you're in the online pharmacy and natural remedies business, to ensure that the product is appropriate and doesn't interact with other drugs or supplements.
