Vitamin B2

Vitamin B2

About

Vitamin B2 or riboflavin is water-soluble vitamin involved in the processing of carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

Description

The vitamin helps to produce energy from food stuffs. It promotes healthy skin, hair, nails and mucous membranes. It is involved in red cell production and certain steroids and hormones.

Deficiency Symptoms

Deficiencies produce cracked skin and painful mucous membranes. Reddening of the tongue, eczema and fatigue are also symptoms.

At a Glance...

Vitamin B2 is an important hormone involved in many biochemical roles, including the functioning of nerves and hormones.

Functions Dosage Toxicity Further Information What you need to eat

Vitamin B2 has anti-oxidant properties, protects against anaemia, boost energy production and helps in the sense of vision.

The RDA is 1.6 mg, but deficiencies are common.

Toxicity is rare and only in high doses. Minor symptoms include itchy burning skin.

Heavy drinkers and the elderly are susceptible to deficiencies, and show signs of scaly skin rash, sores in the mouth, tongue and lips, sensitivity to light and itchy eyes.

Lean meats, liver, kidneys, milk, cheese, green vegetables especially broccoli.

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