Background on vitamin B-2
Riboflavin (vitamin B-2) was originally recognized as a growth factor in 1879 and named vitamin B-2 according to the British nomenclature system.
Here’s what we know today.
- Riboflavin has two active coenzyme forms.
- Riboflavin 5′-phosphate (R5P)
- Flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD).
- Dietary sources include milk, eggs, meats, yogurt, broccoli, almonds, cheese, soy, fortified grains, and dark green vegetables, in descending order of concentration.
- Bacteria in the colon also synthesize riboflavin.
- Riboflavin or its coenzymes contributes to cellular growth, enzyme function, energy production, and carbohydrate, fat, and amino acid synthesis.
The bottom line?
- Research supports the use of riboflavin in…
- Anemia
- Cataracts
- Hyperhomocysteinemia (a condition that damages the blood vessel lining)
- Migraine prophylaxis
- Alcoholism
- A riboflavin deficiency can result in…
- Angular stomatitis (inflammation at the corner of the mouth)
- Seborrhea (scaly, flaky, itchy, red skin)
- Glossitis (swelling and color change of the tongue)
- Nervous disorders
- Anemia
1/21/09 20:26 JR