Vitamin B2 RiboflavinRiboflavin: General Information and Food SourcesVitamin B2 riboflavin, discovered in 1933, was the second B-complex vitamin to be identified. It is commonly known as riboflavin because of its fluorescent yellow pigment (flavus is Latin for yellow). It is also sometimes referred to as vitamin G. Foods naturally high in riboflavin B2 include liver, veal, lamb, fatty fish (like salmon), whole milk, yogurt, cheese, egg yolks, avocados, oysters, nuts, legumes, whole grains, broccoli, dark leafy green vegetables (like spinach), asparagus, and green peas. Foods rich in vitamin B2 riboflavin should not be stored in clear (i.e., glass) containers because riboflavin is damaged by light exposure. Vitamin B2 Riboflavin: Function of RiboflavinAn essential function of riboflavin B2 is to metabolize carbohydrates, proteins (amino acids), and fats for use by the body.Riboflavin is also necessary for red blood cell formation, antibody production, cell respiration, normal fetus growth, proper functioning of the heart and eyes, the development of body tissues (like hair, skin, and nails), and the maintenance of mucous membranes in the digestive tract. Vitamin B2 riboflavin is sometimes used in the treatment of cataracts, migraines, carpal tunnel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, stress, muscle cramps, skin conditions (like acne, dermatitis, and eczema), and eye fatigue. Riboflavin Deficiency SymptomsRiboflavin deficiency symptoms may include cracks and sores at the corners of the mouth, inflammation and reddening of the mouth and tongue, sensitivity to light, burning or itching of the eyes, anemia, dermatitis, scaling of the skin, skin lesions, skin rash, dizziness, hair loss, poor digestion, loss of appetite, weakness, fatigue, slowed mental response or depression (due to nerve tissue damage), abnormal fetus growth, abnormal growth in infants and children, impaired lactation, or inability to urinate.Vitamin B2 Riboflavin: Precautions and InteractionsVitamin B2 Riboflavin has extremely low toxicity. As a result, dosage precautions for riboflavin are mostly unnecessary. The body has a limited capacity to absorb and store riboflavin, which is water-soluble, and excess amounts are simply excreted with the urine. High does may cause the urine to become bright yellow in color. This color change is harmless, but high levels of riboflavin B2 in urine could interfere with certain urine tests.Taking high doses may also interfere with the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy and anti-cancer drugs (such as Methotrexate). The following may negatively influence the body’s ability to absorb or metabolize vitamin B2 (and potentially cause vitamin B2 deficiency): inadequate dietary intake, specific mal-absorption syndromes, lactose intolerance, strenuous exercise, systemic infections, liver disease, alcohol, oral contraceptives, antacids, caffeine, tobacco, certain antibiotics and antidepressants. Pregnant and nursing women, and those on prescription medications or who have a known health condition, should consult with their physician before beginning supplementation of any kind. Tips on Choosing a Vitamin B2 Riboflavin SupplementTips on Choosing a Vitamin B2 Riboflavin Supplement1. Dietary supplements in the U.S. are largely unregulated, and both private and government parties have determined consumers only have a 1 in 5 chance of buying a product that actually contains the amount of ingredients stated on the label or one that is not contaminated. Therefore, only purchase from pharmaceutical GMP compliant facilities, which adhere to the most exacting manufacturing standards. This way, you can be sure you are getting the amount of riboflavin B2 you paid for, and one that is not contaminated. 2. Buy a riboflavin B2 product that contains other B vitamins as well as they work synergistically. Why not buy the best? Your health depends on it.
One company that produces a product that meets the above requirements -- and more -- is Xtend-Life from New Zealand, which has one of the strictest regulatory environments in the world for the manufacture of dietary supplements, far exceeding U.S. FDA standards. Their flagship Formula, Total Balance, contains Vitamin B2 Riboflavin along with many other B vitamins, in addition to a full spectrum of herbal extracts, minerals, vitamins, amino acids, enzymes and speciality nutrients. In fact, it contains the majority of supplements we cover on this entire site!
We here at Nutritional-Supplement-Info have been taking
Total Balance
for almost 2 years with excellent results: we have noticed an increase in energy, mental clarity, and general feeling of well being.
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