3. Antioxidant Defence:

Vitamin B2 acts as a potent antioxidant, helping to neutralise harmful free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to ageing and disease. By scavenging free radicals, riboflavin helps protect our cells from oxidative stress and promotes overall health and longevity.

4. Eye Health:

Riboflavin is essential for maintaining healthy vision and eye function. It plays a key role in the production of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant found in the lens of the eye, which helps protect against cataracts and other age-related eye conditions.

5. Nervous System Support:

Vitamin B2 is necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system. It helps maintain the myelin sheath, a protective covering that surrounds nerve cells and facilitates the transmission of nerve impulses. Adequate riboflavin intake is essential for optimal nerve function and neurotransmitter synthesis.

Food Sources of Vitamin B2

Fortunately, vitamin B2 is readily available in a variety of foods, making it easy to incorporate into your diet. Some of the best food sources of riboflavin include:

• Dairy products (milk, yoghourt, cheese)
• Eggs
• Lean meats (chicken, turkey, beef)
• Fish (salmon, trout, tuna)
• Leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale, broccoli)
• Whole grains (brown rice, whole wheat bread, oats)
• Nuts and seeds (almonds, sunflower seeds)

Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin B2 Deficiency

Vitamin B2, or riboflavin, deficiency is relatively rare in developed countries but can still occur, especially in certain populations or individuals with poor dietary habits. Some common signs and symptoms of vitamin B2 deficiency include:

1. Skin Issues:

One of the most noticeable signs of vitamin B2 deficiency is skin problems. This can manifest as cracks or sores at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis), redness or scaling of the skin (dermatitis), or a smooth, purplish tongue (magenta tongue).

2. Eye Disorders:

Riboflavin deficiency can lead to eye-related symptoms such as sensitivity to light (photophobia), itching, burning, or watering of the eyes. In severe cases, it may contribute to the development of cataracts or other vision problems.

3. Mouth and Throat Symptoms:

Vitamin B2 deficiency can cause inflammation and soreness of the throat, as well as a swollen, sore, or inflamed tongue (glossitis).

4. Fatigue and Weakness:

Since vitamin B2 is involved in energy production, deficiency can lead to feelings of fatigue, weakness, and lethargy. Individuals may experience a general lack of energy and find it difficult to perform daily activities.

5. Digestive Issues:

Riboflavin deficiency can affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as indigestion, nausea, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain.

6. Neurological Symptoms:

In severe cases of vitamin B2 deficiency, individuals may experience neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy).

7. Mood Changes:

Some research suggests that vitamin B2 deficiency may be associated with mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, although more studies are needed to fully understand this relationship.

Determining Vitamin B2 Deficiency

Determining a vitamin B2 deficiency typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history, and laboratory testing. Here’s how healthcare professionals may diagnose vitamin B2 deficiency:

1. Clinical Evaluation:

Healthcare providers will start by assessing your signs and symptoms. They may ask about your medical history, dietary habits, and any factors that could contribute to vitamin B2 deficiency, such as certain medical conditions or medications.

2. Physical Examination:

During a physical examination, healthcare providers may look for characteristic signs of vitamin B2 deficiency, such as skin issues (angular cheilitis, dermatitis), mouth and throat symptoms (glossitis), and eye-related symptoms (photophobia).

3. Laboratory Testing:

Laboratory tests can help confirm a diagnosis of vitamin B2 deficiency. These tests may include:

Blood Tests: Blood tests can measure levels of riboflavin and related compounds in the blood. However, blood tests for riboflavin levels are not routinely performed because riboflavin is not stored in the blood and levels may not accurately reflect tissue status.

Urinary Excretion Tests: Urinary excretion tests measure the amount of riboflavin or its metabolites excreted in the urine over a certain period. This test can provide more accurate information about riboflavin status than blood tests.

Complete Blood Count (CBC): A complete blood count may reveal abnormalities associated with vitamin B2 deficiency, such as changes in red blood cell size and shape (anemia) or changes in white blood cell counts.

4. Response to Treatment:

If healthcare providers suspect a vitamin B2 deficiency based on clinical evaluation and laboratory tests, they may recommend treatment with riboflavin supplements. Improvement in symptoms after supplementation can further support the diagnosis of vitamin B2 deficiency.

It’s important to note that vitamin B2 deficiency is relatively rare in developed countries and is often associated with other nutrient deficiencies or underlying health conditions.

In conclusion, vitamin B2, or riboflavin, is a powerhouse nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining our overall health and well-being. From energy production to antioxidant defense, cell growth to eye health, riboflavin is involved in a wide range of essential functions in the body.

To ensure you’re getting an adequate intake of vitamin B2, aim to include a variety of riboflavin-rich foods in your diet on a daily basis. By prioritizing nutrient-dense foods and supporting your body’s vitamin B2 needs, you can harness the power of riboflavin to optimize your health and vitality for years to come.