Vitamin B-2 (Riboflavin), a water-soluble B-complex vitamin.

Article by Don Goldberg

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2
 
 DESCRIPTION 
 Riboflavin is a water-soluble B-complex vitamin that is stable to heat, oxidation, and acid, but is unstable in the presence of light. 
 FUNCTIONS 
 Riboflavin acts as an intermediary in the transfer of electrons in numerous essential oxidation-reduction reactions and participates in many metabolic reactions of carbohydrates, fats, and protein. Riboflavin is necessary for cell respiration. It works with enzymes in the utilization of cell oxygen. Riboflavin is easily absorbed through the walls of the small intestine where it is carried by the blood to the tissues of the body, used, and then excess is excreted in the urine. Riboflavin coenzymes are essential for the conversion of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and folic acid into their coenzyme forms and for the transformation of tryptophan into niacin. Riboflavin is not stored in great quantity - must be supplied regularly. Riboflavin is necessary for the maintenance of good vision, skin, nails, and hair. Cancer-preventative. Helps release energy from food. Riboflavin helps maintain healthy respiratory, digestive and circulatory mucous membrane linings. Helps maintain the nervous system. Riboflavin promotes normal growth and development. 
 INDICATIONS 
 Acne, adrenal exhaustion, alcoholism, arthritis, baldness, bedsores, burning sensation in the eyes, burns, cancer, canker sores, carpal tunnel syndrome (50 mg/day), cataracts (15 mg/day)1,2, cheilitis, conjunctivitis, cystic fibrosis, dermatitis, diabetes mellitus, diarrhea, eczema, eyestrain, fever, glaucoma, glossitis, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, indigestion, infections, influenza, keratitis, leg cramps, liver disease, malabsorbtion, Ménière’s syndrome, migraine, multiple sclerosis, nephritis, neuritis, night blindness, Parkinson’s disease, pellagra, retarded growth, stomach disorders, stomach ulcer (peptic), stress, stress of an injury or surgery, styes, ulcers, vaginitis, vertigo, visual fatigue, worms. 
 SIGNS OF DEFICIENCY 
 Riboflavin deficiency’s include baldness, burning of the eyes, cataracts1,2, cracks and sores in the corners of the mouth, depression., dermatitis, digestive disturbances, dilation of pupils, dizziness, dropsy, eye fatigue, feeling of grit or sand on the inside of the eyelids, hair loss, impaired lactation, inability to urinate, inflammation of the tongue and lips, insomnia, lack of stamina and vigor, lesions of the lips, oily skin, red sore tongue, scaling around the nose, mouth, forehead, and ears, sensitivity to light, sluggishness, tension, trembling, vaginal itching, weight loss. 
 SIGNS OF TOXICITY 
 There are no known toxic effects with riboflavin, however, large doses may cause B-complex imbalances. Dark urine, nausea, vomiting.
 DRUG INTERACTIONS 
 Drugs that have been reported to have a negative influence on the absorption or metabolism of riboflavin are Ouabain ( a drug used for treatment of congestive heart failure), Theophylline (a smooth muscle relaxant, diuretic, and central nervous stimulant), Penicillin, Boric acid, Probenecid (an anti-gout remedy), Chlorpromazine (an anti-psychotic drug), Phenothiazines (major tranquilizers), Barbiturates, Streptomycin (an antibiotic), and oral contraceptives. The following decrease the effect of Vitamin B2: antidepressants, phenothiazines or probenecid. Tobacco use decreases the absorption of Vitamin B2. Alcohol can prevent the uptake and absorption of Vitamin B2. 
 CONTRAINDICATIONS 
 Allergies to Vitamin B2, chronic kidney failure. Consult your health care professional if you are pregnant. 
 SYNONYMS 
 Antipellagra factor, antipellagra vitamin, hepatoflavin, lactoflavin, ovoflavin, riboflavin, riboflavine, vitamin G. 
 FOOD SOURCES 
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