Vitamin B2 Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, is one of eight essential vitamins that are part of the B-complex group. It’s a water-soluble vitamin that the body needs to produce amino acids and absorb vitamins B6 and B9 (folic acid). Like all B vitamins, the body requires vitamin B2 to convert carbohydrates into fuel for the body to carry out necessary functions. Vitamin B2 can only be obtained through food sources like liver, eggs and spinach, as the body cannot produce essential vitamins on it own.^1,2

Vitamin B2 Health Uses and Health Benefits

Obtaining enough vitamin B2 in your diet through food sources and supplementation is essential to preventing riboflavin deficiencies. Following a diet that’s deficient in vitamin B2 can result in chronic migraines, fatigue, anemia, depression and lack of focus and concentration. Other common signs of a vitamin B2 deficiency include cracked mouth and lips, skin inflammation and sore throat.^2,3

Having a vitamin B2 deficiency may also increase the risk of developing certain eye diseases. Consuming diets high in riboflavin can help prevent degenerative eye conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts.²

In some cases, vitamin B2 can also act as an antioxidant. Having a diet high in vitamin B2 can help prevent against an accumulation of free radicals—substances that cause cellular damage that leads to long-term disease. Consuming enough vitamin B2 can help detox the liver and keep the digestive tract healthy, preventing the risk of cancer.^2,3

References

1. https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hn-2925007
2. https://draxe.com/vitamin-b2/
3. https://www.drweil.com/vitamins-supplements-herbs/vitamins/vitamin-b2-for-adrenal-health/