B2 400 mg Side Effects: Comprehensive Guide to Riboflavin Usage and Safety
What are the side effects of B2 400 mg. How does riboflavin affect the body. What precautions should be taken when using vitamin B2. What are the potential interactions of riboflavin with other medications. How to determine the proper dosage of B2 400 mg.
Understanding Riboflavin: The Vital Vitamin B2
Riboflavin, commonly known as vitamin B2, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. This water-soluble vitamin is naturally present in a wide range of foods, including both plant and animal sources. Milk, meat, eggs, nuts, enriched flour, and green vegetables are among the primary dietary sources of riboflavin.
The importance of riboflavin in the human body cannot be overstated. It is integral to numerous physiological processes, including:
- Proper skin development
- Maintenance of the digestive tract lining
- Formation and function of blood cells
- Supporting brain function
Given its widespread availability in food, most individuals with a balanced diet typically do not require additional riboflavin supplementation. However, certain conditions may necessitate the use of B2 supplements, particularly in higher doses such as 400 mg.
The Efficacy of B2 400 mg: Proven Uses and Potential Benefits
While riboflavin is essential for overall health, research has shown that higher doses, such as 400 mg, may have specific therapeutic applications. The effectiveness of B2 400 mg has been studied in various contexts, with some uses showing more promise than others.
Treating Riboflavin Deficiency
Is B2 400 mg effective for treating riboflavin deficiency? Yes, oral supplementation with riboflavin, including doses up to 400 mg, has been proven effective in treating and preventing riboflavin deficiency, also known as ariboflavinosis. This condition can occur due to poor dietary intake, certain medical conditions, or lifestyle factors that interfere with riboflavin absorption.
Managing Hyperhomocysteinemia
Can B2 400 mg help with high homocysteine levels? Research suggests that taking riboflavin orally for 12 weeks can significantly decrease homocysteine levels in some individuals, particularly those with a specific genetic predisposition. In some cases, reductions of up to 40% have been observed, which is promising for cardiovascular health, as high homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk of heart disease.
Migraine Prevention and Management
Does B2 400 mg offer relief for migraine sufferers? High-dose riboflavin supplementation, such as 400 mg daily, has shown modest but significant benefits in reducing both the frequency and severity of migraine headaches in adults. However, its efficacy in children remains unclear and requires further investigation.
While these applications have shown promise, it’s important to note that research into other potential uses of high-dose riboflavin is ongoing. Many other purported benefits lack sufficient scientific evidence to support their efficacy at this time.
Navigating the Side Effects of B2 400 mg
When considering any supplement, including B2 400 mg, it’s crucial to be aware of potential side effects. While riboflavin is generally considered safe, even at higher doses, some individuals may experience adverse reactions.
Are there any common side effects of B2 400 mg? The most frequently reported side effects include:
- Bright yellow urine: This harmless but noticeable effect is due to the body excreting excess riboflavin.
- Nausea: Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
It’s worth noting that riboflavin is considered likely safe for most people when taken orally in doses up to 400 mg daily. However, as with any supplement, individual responses can vary, and some people may be more sensitive to higher doses.
Essential Precautions for B2 400 mg Usage
While riboflavin is generally safe, certain populations should exercise caution when considering high-dose supplementation like B2 400 mg.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Is B2 400 mg safe during pregnancy and lactation? Riboflavin is considered likely safe when consumed in amounts commonly found in foods. For pregnant women, the recommended daily intake is 1.4 mg, while breastfeeding women should aim for 1.6 mg daily. Higher doses should only be taken under medical supervision.
Children
Can children safely take B2 400 mg? Riboflavin is likely safe for most children when consumed in amounts typically found in foods. Some studies have safely used higher doses of 100-200 mg daily in children, but 400 mg doses should only be administered under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Liver Disease
How does liver disease affect B2 absorption? Individuals with liver disease may have decreased riboflavin absorption. This could potentially impact the effectiveness of supplementation and may require adjusted dosing or alternative treatments.
Potential Interactions: B2 400 mg and Other Medications
When considering B2 400 mg supplementation, it’s crucial to be aware of potential interactions with other medications. One notable interaction involves tetracycline antibiotics.
Does B2 400 mg interfere with antibiotics? Riboflavin may decrease the body’s ability to absorb tetracyclines, potentially reducing their effectiveness. To avoid this interaction, it’s recommended to take riboflavin supplements at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after taking tetracycline antibiotics.
This interaction underscores the importance of discussing all supplements and medications with a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Determining the Right Dosage: From RDA to B2 400 mg
Understanding the appropriate dosage of riboflavin is crucial for maximizing its benefits while minimizing potential risks. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) provides a baseline for daily intake, but therapeutic doses like B2 400 mg may be prescribed for specific conditions.
Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)
What is the daily recommended intake of riboflavin? The RDA for riboflavin varies based on age, sex, and life stage:
- Adult males: 1.3 mg daily
- Adult females: 1.1 mg daily
- Pregnant women: 1.4 mg daily
- Breastfeeding women: 1.6 mg daily
These amounts are typically achievable through a balanced diet rich in riboflavin-containing foods.
Therapeutic Dosing
When might higher doses like B2 400 mg be recommended? Higher doses of riboflavin, including 400 mg daily, may be prescribed for specific therapeutic purposes such as migraine prevention or treatment of riboflavin deficiency. These doses significantly exceed the RDA and should only be taken under medical supervision.
To enhance absorption, it’s often recommended to take riboflavin supplements with food. This can increase the amount that the body absorbs, potentially improving the supplement’s efficacy.
The Broader Impact of B2 400 mg: Beyond Basic Nutrition
While the primary role of riboflavin is in maintaining basic cellular functions, research into higher doses like B2 400 mg has revealed potential broader impacts on health and disease prevention.
Oxidative Stress and Cellular Health
How does B2 400 mg affect cellular health? Riboflavin plays a crucial role in the body’s antioxidant systems, helping to neutralize harmful free radicals. At higher doses, such as 400 mg, riboflavin may enhance these protective effects, potentially reducing oxidative stress and supporting overall cellular health.
Energy Metabolism
Can B2 400 mg boost energy levels? As a key component in energy metabolism, high-dose riboflavin supplementation may support more efficient energy production at the cellular level. While this doesn’t directly translate to a noticeable energy boost, it may contribute to overall metabolic health and potentially benefit individuals with certain metabolic disorders.
Cardiovascular Health
Beyond its effects on homocysteine levels, does B2 400 mg offer other cardiovascular benefits? Some research suggests that high-dose riboflavin may have protective effects on the cardiovascular system, potentially through its role in maintaining the health of blood vessels and supporting proper blood pressure regulation. However, more research is needed to fully understand these potential benefits.
Navigating the Supplement Market: Choosing Quality B2 400 mg Products
With the increasing popularity of high-dose riboflavin supplements, it’s important for consumers to navigate the market carefully to ensure they’re choosing high-quality products.
Form and Bioavailability
Are all B2 400 mg supplements equally effective? Not necessarily. Riboflavin supplements come in various forms, including regular riboflavin and riboflavin-5′-phosphate. Some research suggests that the phosphate form may be more bioavailable, meaning the body can utilize it more efficiently. When choosing a B2 400 mg supplement, consider products that offer this potentially more effective form.
Third-Party Testing
How can consumers ensure the quality of B2 400 mg supplements? Look for products that have undergone third-party testing. These independent evaluations can verify the purity and potency of the supplement, ensuring that it contains the stated amount of riboflavin and is free from contaminants.
Additional Ingredients
What should consumers look for on B2 400 mg supplement labels? Pay attention to additional ingredients listed on the label. Some products may contain unnecessary fillers or additives. Opt for supplements with minimal additional ingredients to reduce the risk of adverse reactions or interactions.
Future Directions: Emerging Research on B2 400 mg
As scientific understanding of riboflavin’s role in the body continues to evolve, new areas of research are emerging that may expand the therapeutic applications of high-dose supplements like B2 400 mg.
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Could B2 400 mg play a role in preventing neurodegenerative diseases? Preliminary research suggests that riboflavin’s antioxidant properties and its role in energy metabolism may have neuroprotective effects. Studies are exploring the potential benefits of high-dose riboflavin in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease, though much more research is needed before any definitive conclusions can be drawn.
Athletic Performance
Might B2 400 mg enhance athletic performance? Given riboflavin’s crucial role in energy metabolism, some researchers are investigating whether high-dose supplementation could benefit athletes or individuals engaging in intense physical activity. While early results are promising, more robust studies are needed to confirm any performance-enhancing effects.
Gut Health and Microbiome
How does B2 400 mg impact gut health? Emerging research is exploring the relationship between riboflavin and the gut microbiome. Some studies suggest that riboflavin may influence the composition of gut bacteria, potentially offering benefits for digestive health and overall wellbeing. This area of research is still in its early stages but represents an exciting frontier in understanding the full impact of high-dose riboflavin supplementation.
As research in these areas progresses, it’s possible that new therapeutic applications for B2 400 mg may be discovered, further expanding its potential health benefits. However, it’s crucial to approach these emerging areas of research with caution and to always consult with healthcare providers before incorporating high-dose supplements into one’s health regimen.
Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews
Overview
Riboflavin is vitamin B2. It is widely found in both plant- and animal-based foods, including milk, meat, eggs, nuts, enriched flour, and green vegetables.
Riboflavin is involved in many body processes. It’s required for the proper development of the skin, lining of the digestive tract, blood cells, and brain function.
People most commonly use riboflavin to prevent riboflavin deficiency, for migraine, and for high levels of homocysteine in the blood. It’s also used for acne, muscle cramps, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these other uses.
Uses & Effectiveness ?
Effective for
- Riboflavin deficiency (ariboflavinosis). Taking riboflavin by mouth can increase levels of riboflavin in the body, helping to treat and prevent riboflavin deficiency.
Possibly Effective for
- High levels of homocysteine in the blood (hyperhomocysteinemia).
Taking riboflavin by mouth for 12 weeks decreases levels of homocysteine by up to 40% in some people with a specific gene type. - Migraine. Taking high-dose riboflavin by mouth seems to modestly reduce the number and severity of migraine headaches in adults. It’s unclear if it helps children.
There is interest in using riboflavin for a number of other purposes, but there isn’t enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Side Effects
When taken by mouth: Riboflavin is likely safe for most people in doses of up to 400 mg daily. In some people, riboflavin can cause the urine to turn a bright yellow color. It may also cause nausea.
Special Precautions and Warnings
When taken by mouth: Riboflavin is likely safe for most people in doses of up to 400 mg daily. In some people, riboflavin can cause the urine to turn a bright yellow color. It may also cause nausea. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Riboflavin is likely safe when consumed in amounts commonly found in foods.
The recommended intake is 1.4 mg daily during pregnancy and 1.6 mg daily during lactation.
Children: Riboflavin is likely safe for most children when consumed in amounts commonly found in foods. Higher doses of 100-200 mg daily have also been safely used.
Liver disease: Riboflavin absorption is decreased in people with liver disease.
Interactions ?
Riboflavin might decrease the amount of tetracyclines that the body can absorb. Taking riboflavin along with tetracyclines might decrease the effects of tetracyclines. To avoid this interaction, take riboflavin 2 hours before or 4 hours after taking tetracyclines.
Moderate Interaction
Be cautious with this combination
Dosing
Riboflavin is an important nutrient that is found in many foods. The amount that should be consumed on a daily basis is called the recommended dietary allowance (RDA).
For adult males, the RDA is 1.3 mg daily. For adult females, the RDA is 1.1 mg daily. During pregnancy, the RDA is 1.4 mg, and during breastfeeding, the RDA is 1.6 mg. Recommended amounts for children depend on age.
Riboflavin is also available in supplements. Taking riboflavin supplements with food will increase how much the body absorbs. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.
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Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing
Uses
Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is used to prevent or treat low levels of vitamin B2 in people who do not get enough of the vitamin from their diet. Most people who eat a normal diet do not need extra vitamin B2. However, some conditions (such as stomach/intestinal problems, prolonged infection, liver disease, alcoholism, cancer) can cause low levels of vitamin B2. Vitamin B2 plays an important role in the body. It is needed to keep your skin, eyes, nerves, and red blood cells healthy.
How to use Riboflavin
Take this vitamin by mouth.
Read and follow all directions on the product package before taking this vitamin. If you have any questions, ask your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this vitamin, take it as directed.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Take this vitamin regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.
If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
Side Effects
This vitamin may cause your urine to turn bright yellow. This effect is harmless and will disappear when the vitamin is stopped.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this vitamin is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US –
In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before taking riboflavin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this vitamin, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this vitamin. Riboflavin is safe to take during pregnancy when used as directed at recommended doses.
Riboflavin passes into breast milk and is considered to be safe during breast-feeding when used as directed at recommended doses. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
This vitamin may interfere with certain lab tests, possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this vitamin.
Does Riboflavin interact with other drugs you are taking?
Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911.
Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Keep all regular medical and lab appointments.
This product is not a substitute for a proper diet. It is best to get your vitamins from healthy foods. Riboflavin can be found in milk, bread, fortified cereals, meat, green vegetables, and other foods. Consult your doctor, pharmacist, or nutritionist for more details.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Check the product package for instructions on how to store this vitamin, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed.
Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
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💊 The composition of the drug Riboflavin-Mononucleotide ✅ Use of Riboflavin-Mononucleotide Save Search for analogues Description of the active ingredients of the preparation Riboflavin Mononucleotide The scientific information provided is general and cannot be used to make decisions. Update date: 2020.09.21 Marketing authorization holder: PHARMSTANDART-UFA VITAMIN PLANT, OJSC ATX code: A11HA04 (Riboflavin (vitamin B2)) Active substance: Rec.INN WHO registered Dosage form
Release form, packaging and composition |
No.: LSR-002944/07
By regulating redox processes, it takes part in protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism, as well as in maintaining normal visual function of the eye and hemoglobin synthesis.
| B15 | Acute hepatitis A |
| B16 | Acute hepatitis B |
| B17.1 | Acute hepatitis C |
| B18.0 | Chronic viral hepatitis B with delta agent |
| B18.1 | Chronic viral hepatitis B without delta agent |
| B18.2 | Chronic viral hepatitis C |
| E53.0 | Riboflavin deficiency |
| F48.0 | Neurasthenia |
| h20.2 | Other acute conjunctivitis |
h20. 4 | Chronic conjunctivitis |
| h26 | Keratitis |
| h26.0 | Corneal ulcer |
| h30.0 | Acute and subacute iridocyclitis (anterior uveitis) |
| h30.1 | Chronic iridocyclitis |
| h35 | Senile cataract |
| h36 | Other cataracts |
| H53.1 | Subjective visual disorders |
| K59.9 | Functional bowel disorder, unspecified |
| K73 | Chronic hepatitis, not elsewhere classified |
L20. 8 | Other atopic dermatitis (neurodermatitis, eczema) |
| L23 | Allergic contact dermatitis |
| L24 | Simple irritant contact dermatitis |
| L28.0 | Lichen simplex chronicus (limited neurodermatitis) |
| L30.0 | Coin-shaped eczema |
| L56.2 | Photocontact dermatitis [berloque dermatitis] |
| L98.4 | Chronic skin ulcer, not elsewhere classified |
| T66 | Unspecified effects of radiation (radiation sickness) |
T79. 3 | Post-traumatic wound infection, not elsewhere classified |
Dosage regimen
The route of administration and dosing regimen of a particular drug depends on its form of release and other factors. The optimal dosage regimen is determined by the doctor. Compliance of the dosage form of a particular drug with indications for use and dosing regimen should be strictly observed.
Apply intramuscularly, internally, externally and topically. The dose, method and schedule of application are determined individually, depending on the indications, the age of the patient and the dosage form used.
Side effects
Possible: allergic reactions, impaired renal function, impaired vision.
Contraindications for use
Hypersensitivity to riboflavin, nephrolithiasis.
Pregnancy and lactation
Riboflavin may be used during pregnancy and lactation (breastfeeding) if indicated.
Use in children
May be used in children according to indications, in recommended doses and dosage forms.
Special instructions
Colors urine light yellow.
Drug interaction
When used simultaneously with m-anticholinergics, the absorption and bioavailability of riboflavin increases (due to a decrease in intestinal motility).
When used simultaneously with thyroid hormones, the metabolism of riboflavin is accelerated.
With simultaneous use, the activity of doxycycline, tetracycline, oxytetracycline, erythromycin and lincomycin decreases.
Riboflavin is incompatible with streptomycin.
With simultaneous use, the side effects of chloramphenicol (impaired hematopoiesis, optic neuritis) are reduced and prevented.
With the simultaneous use of chlorpromazine, amitriptyline, due to the blockade of flavinokinase, disrupt the incorporation of riboflavin into flavin adenine mononucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide and increase its excretion in the urine.
Keep
If you want to place a link to the description of this drug – use this code
Riboflavin Mononucleotide . Description of the drug in the reference book Vidal.
functions, deficiency symptoms, replenishment pathways
Riboflavin (also known as vitamin B2 or lactoflavin) – very important for human health and life, one of the group B, which, like many others, is water soluble. It occurs naturally in some foods and is also available as a dietary supplement.
In 1933, this nutrient was withdrawn from the B group of vitamins as a high temperature resistant yellow element. It is a component of two main coenzymes: flavin mononucleotide (also known as riboflavin-5-phosphate) and flanulin-adenine nucleotide, which play a major role in energy generation as well as in the synthesis of other B vitamins. People need to consume vitamin B2 every day, since the body can only store it in small quantities, and stocks are rapidly depleted.
Functions of vitamin B2 in the human body
It is called the “beauty vitamin” due to its ability to influence the condition of hair and skin. Riboflavin mononucleotide plays an important role in metabolism, helps the body process proteins, fats and carbohydrates, and provides oxygen for energy production. Thanks to him, carbohydrates from food are converted into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which produces energy for accumulation in the muscles.
Vitamin B2 is involved in the synthesis of glutathione, an antioxidant essential for eye health and normal functioning of the immune system. A diet rich in this substance may help reduce the risk of developing cataracts later in life. It regulates other vitamins and minerals: affects the production and absorption of vitamins B3, B6 and B9, as well as iron. B2 is known to be effective in the treatment of migraine, so people suffering from persistent headaches can feel the great effects of riboflavin. Some studies have shown that in children with autism, supplements containing vitamins b1, b2, b6, b12, and magnesium can reduce the levels of abnormal organic acids in the urine.
In general, b2 vitamin is essential for:
- the health of the mucous membranes in the digestive system
- the support of liver function
- conversion of tryptophan to the amino acid niacin
- maintenance of healthy eyes, nerves, muscles and skin
- absorption and activation of iron, folic acid and vitamins B1, B3 and B6
- production of hormones by glands
- prevention of cataracts
903 23 normal fetal development, especially in areas where vitamin deficiencies are common.
Daily requirement of vitamin b2
Oregon State University Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of lactoflavin for men aged 19years and older is 1.3 mg, and for women – 1.1 mg per day. During pregnancy, women should have 1.4 mg of this nutrient per day, and while breastfeeding – 1.6 mg. An amount less than 40 mcg per day indicates its deficiency. The level of excretion of riboflavin in the urine may decrease with age and increase due to the influence of stress and certain drugs.
Recommended Dietary Allowances for Riboflavin | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Age | Male | Woman | Pregnancy | Lactation |
Births before 6 months | 0.3 mg | 0.3 mg | ||
7-12 months * | 0.4 mg | 0.4 mg | ||
1-3 years | 0.5 mg | 0.5 mg | ||
4-8 years | 0.6 mg | 0.6 mg | ||
9-13 years old | 0. | 0.9 mg | ||
14-18 years old | 1.3 mg | 1.0 mg | 1.4 mg | 1.6 mg |
19-50 years old | 1.3 mg | 1.1 mg | 1.4 mg | 1.6 mg |
51+ years | 1.3 mg | 1.1 mg | ||
9 mg Bacteria in the colon produce free riboflavin, which can be absorbed by the colon in amounts dependent on diet. The body stores only small amounts in the liver, heart, and kidneys. When consumed in excess, the substance is either not absorbed, or it enters in small quantities and is excreted in the urine.
More is produced from plant-based foods than from meat-based foods. Ultraviolet light can quickly inactivate vitamin b 2 and its derivatives. Through this sensitivity, prolonged light therapy to treat neonatal jaundice or skin disorders can lead to riboflavin deficiency. The risk of loss from exposure to light is why milk is usually best stored in glass containers.
Vitamin B2 deficiency and its consequences
Usually vitamin deficiency B2 is quite rare. In 2003-2006, studies were conducted in the United States that showed that only 6% of the population of the country had a level of consumption of riboflavin from food and nutritional supplements below the norm. An analysis of data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey found that vitamin B2 intake was greater in lacto-egg vegetarians (2.3 mg/day) than in non-vegetarians (2.1 mg/day).
There are two types of riboflavin deficiency: primary, when there is not enough of it in the diet, and secondary, when the intestines cannot absorb the vitamin properly, and therefore it is excreted very quickly.
Vitamin B2 deficiency is also known as the disease ariboflavinosis.
In addition to inadequate intake, lactoflavin deficiency can be caused by endocrine disorders (eg thyroid hormone deficiency) and some other diseases.
One of the signs of a lack of a substance is problems with digestion and a decrease in energy levels. Since riboflavin helps turn food into energy, its deficiency affects overall well-being, causing lethargy and weakness. Vitmain b2 is involved in the production of red blood cells, which help provide oxygen to the body. If it is not enough, there may be dizziness.
Needed for hair and skin. Nutrient deficiency is displayed by external hair loss and skin deterioration, as well as vision problems. In order for the hair, skin and vision to be in good condition, a sufficient amount of vitamin B2 is required.
Mental problems can be a symptom of much more serious health problems, but can also be caused by a lack of riboflavin. Deficiency of the substance manifests itself in the form of insomnia and nightmares, as well as mood swings.
Main symptoms of deficiency:
- skin disorders (flaking, etc.)
- hyperemia (excess of blood) and swelling of the mouth and throat
- angular stomatitis (lesion in the corners of the mouth) cracked lips)
- hair loss
- reproductive problems
- sore throat
- liver and nervous system degeneration
- scrotal dermatitis
- mucous membrane fluid
- iron deficiency anemia
- eye sensitivity to bright light, itching, watery or red eyes.
People with riboflavin deficiency usually suffer from other nutrient deficiencies as well, such as impaired metabolism of B vitamins due to reduced levels of the coenzyme flavin. If the deficiency of this nutrient is pronounced and prolonged, anemia and cataracts can develop, while taking vitamin supplements with vitamin B2 rarely neutralizes late anatomical changes (for example, cataract formation).
Risk groups for riboflavin deficiency
Vitamin B2 deficiency can occur with poor nutrition, because the human body constantly releases it, but does not store it.
A person with a lack of lactoflavin usually also lacks other vitamins. A greater risk for its deficiency is observed in people who consume excess amounts of alcohol.
Those most likely to have low riboflavin include:
Vegetarian athletes. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics of Canada and the American College of Sports Medicine state that vegetarian athletes are at risk of vitamin B2 deficiency due to the fact that some of them exclude all animal products from the diet, including milk, yogurt, cheese and eggs, which are good sources of this nutrient. To avoid this potential problem, they are advised to consult a sports nutritionist about changing their diet.
Pregnant and lactating women. Pregnant or lactating women who rarely consume meat or dairy products are at risk of riboflavin deficiency, which may adversely affect maternal and infant health. For example, its deficiency during pregnancy can increase the risk of preeclampsia.
Taking riboflavin during pregnancy has a positive effect on the weight and height of the newborn.
Infants of mothers with vitamin B2 deficiency or low vitamin B2 intake (less than 1.2 mg per day) during pregnancy are at greater risk of certain birth defects (such as heart defects).
Nutrient deficiency in pregnant women can compromise the growth of the baby and increase the risk of pre-eclampsia, which is associated with high blood pressure during pregnancy. This is a serious condition that can be life-threatening.
People who consume little milk. Vegans and those who consume little milk and meat are at risk of riboflavin deficiency and the health problems associated with it.
People with infantile Brown-Vialetto-Van Lare syndrome. This is a very rare neurological disease that can begin at any age and is associated with deafness, bulbar palsy (motor neurone disease), and breathing difficulties. The disease is caused by mutations in the SLC52A3 gene, which codes for the intestinal riboflavin transporter. As a result, these patients are deficient in vitamin B2.
Vitamin complexes can be a life-saving method for the treatment of this disease.
Vitamin B2 in food
Foods that are particularly rich in riboflavin are: eggs, organ meats, lean meats and milk, green vegetables, fortified cereals. The largest dietary contributor to total riboflavin intake in men and women is milk and dairy drinks, bread and bread products, mixed foods whose main ingredient is meat, ready-to-eat cereals, and mixed foods whose main ingredient is grain.
Since riboflavin dissolves in water, approximately half of it is lost when food is boiled. Whereas when cooked in other ways, such as steamed or microwaved, all of the riboflavin is retained.
Cereal products may not contain much natural riboflavin by the time they reach your table. This is why it is sometimes added to cereals to improve their nutritional properties.
Riboflavin is often added to cereals and breads, and is used as a food coloring in candies. Dark yellow urine may be evidence of vitamin B2 intake in large quantities.
Food sources of riboflavin
Foods that provide 20% or more B2 are considered rich sources of nutrients, but foods that provide less vitamins also contribute to a healthy diet.
Forms of riboflavin
Riboflavin is available in vitamin complexes, as well as many dietary supplements. Multivitamin and multimineral preparations with vitamin B2 usually provide 1.3 mg of riboflavin (100% B2) per day. Most supplements contain it in free form, but some contain riboflavin FSD, sodium riboflavin-5-phosphate. On sale there are preparations containing a complex of vitamins of group B, as well as other important vitamins for men.
Usually, riboflavin is taken orally in the form of tablets, but some diseases require it to be taken in ampoules and injections, for faster delivery to the nervous system and blood.
For industrial and medical purposes, riboflavin is produced in several ways:
Extraction from natural raw materials. The method is expensive, as it requires the processing of a large amount of environmentally friendly products. It is used for the production of elite biocomplexes with “kosher”, “vegetarian” markers.
Chemical synthesis from ribose and 3,4-dimethylaniline. This option is most often used in the food industry.
Microbiological. The ability of some microorganisms to produce B2 in large quantities is used. The most commonly cultivated strains are Eremothecium ashbyii, Candida, Ashbya gossypii, Bacillus subtilis. The substance obtained in this way is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry, as well as in the production of functional nutrition.
Forms are available in the following categories:
Solution for injection. It is used only on prescription in a hospital setting. The introduction is carried out intramuscularly.
Vitamin B2 liquid. Oral dietary supplement. Differs in easy reception and pleasant taste.
Tablets. The most convenient form for application. They have a neutral taste and are easy to dose. Vitamin B2 tablets are produced by many companies, so it is difficult to find an option at the best price.
Capsules. Contain natural sources of riboflavin, mainly plant origin, in a strictly defined concentration. The capsule itself can be gelatinous or made from vegetables processed using a special technology.
Vitamin B2 capsules or tablets are available in various strengths. The most popular are 50, 100, 250, 400 mg.
Contraindications and overdose
Vitamin B2 is generally considered safe. Overdose is unlikely as the body can absorb up to 27 milligrams of riboflavin and will expel any additional amount in the urine.
The main risk of excess B2 is liver damage. However, excess riboflavin or its toxicity is rare. To get an overdose of it naturally, you need to eat an almost impossible huge amount of food. Of course, it is possible to get an excess of riboflavin in pill or injectable form, although this is also unlikely since the body does not store this vitamin inside the body.
However, it is very important to talk to your doctor before taking any B2 supplements, as they may reduce the effectiveness of some medications.
Drugs that can affect the level of riboflavin in the body:
- tricyclic antidepressants;
- antipsychotics;
- ethotrexate, which is used for cancer and autoimmune diseases;
- drugs for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and gout
- diuretics.
Some drugs used in cancer therapy can also reduce the level of riboflavin in the body, and it can affect the way doxorubicin works.
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that very high amounts of vitamin B2 can lead to itching, numbness, burning or tingling, yellow or orange urine, and sensitivity to light. To prevent an imbalance of B vitamins, they recommend the use of vitamin complexes.
Terminals
Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is a valuable nutrient that is partly produced in the small intestine but cannot be stored and therefore must be supplied to the body from external sources.
The best option is to optimize the diet in favor of vitamin-containing foods. But taking it in the form of biocomplexes is much more reliable. This makes it easier to choose the dosage and track the intake into the body.
Riboflavin is essential for the normal functioning of the body as a whole. It is involved in all metabolic processes, as well as in hematopoiesis, and ensures the bioavailability of other vitamins. Good vision, good immunity, resistance to stress and other aspects of health are simply impossible without it. Therefore, it is very important to eliminate the deficiency of this vitamin in your body. The first signs that should alert you will be: peeling of the skin, inflammation and cracks on the lips, redness of the oral mucosa and tongue, decreased visual acuity.
The daily allowance depends on the sex, age and lifestyle of the person. For example, athletes spend more of the vitamin than those who suffer from physical inactivity. A doctor or an experienced nutritionist will help you choose the optimal dosage.