Vitamin B2 or riboflavin was discovered in the 1920s, and the B factor was isolated in 1933. The word "riboflavin" comes from “ribose” – the sugar found in many vitamins and enzymes, while “flavin” means yellow. This is because it is a yellow-orange crystalline substance. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is not destroyed by boiling in an acid solution. Though large quantities are not stored in the body, riboflavin is stored in the heart, kidneys and liver, with the latter containing most of the vitamin. Most of the riboflavin is excreted through the urine and some through the bile and sweat.
Functions of Vitamin B2
Riboflavin performs important functions in the body. It is part of a group of enzymes which are essential for the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins, as well as tissue oxidation and respiration. Since it is involved in chemical reactions, it is vital for maintenance of tissues and helps the body cells to use oxygen to release energy. Therefore, it is required for growth and overall good health.
Riboflavin prevents constipation and aids digestion. Moreover, it boosts the functioning of the nervous system. It strengthens the mucous lining of the mouth, tongue and lips and is also responsible for healthy skin, nails and hair. Finally, it alleviates eye strain, and keeps eyes healthy. It plays a vital role in the prevention of glaucoma. Vitamin A is responsible for good vision, while vitamin B2 strengthens the nerves and muscles of the eyes.
Sources of Vitamin B2
Riboflavin is widely found in fruits and vegetables but in limited quantities. It is found in green vegetables like turnip greens and broccoli; beets; carrot leaves and lotus stems, while fruit sources are custard apples, raisins, papaya and apricots. Other foods include skimmed or whole-milk powder, eggs and sheep liver, and nuts like almonds, walnuts and pistachios. It is found in the germ and bran of cereals like wheat and rice. Germination of cereals and pulses enhances the content.
Causes of Deficiency of Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2 is sensitive to any kind of light, so exposure to light or sun drying of food leads to a loss of the vitamin. It is not affected by boiling in an acid or neutral solution, but rapidly destroyed by heat in an alkaline solution. Moreover, if food is cooked in a large quantity of water, some of the vitamin is drained out. Milling of rice and wheat means removal of the bran and germ, so this too leads to a loss of the vitamin. Finally, an inadequate diet, especially in combination with alcohol and sulpha drugs, causes a loss of the vitamin.
Symptoms of Deficiency of Vitamin B2
There are a number of symptoms resulting from a deficiency of vitamin B2. The eyes are affected and appear bloodshot, leading to burning and itching and sensitivity to light. The skin may become oily and wrinkled, with whiteheads, blackheads and sores, while the hair too becomes oily and dull. There is inflammation of the mouth, a sore and burning tongue and cracked lips and split nails. Even a mild deficiency leads to brown pigmentation of the skin. Other results of deficiency are anemia, cataract and improper functioning of the adrenal gland.
Riboflavin has therapeutic uses in the treatment of eye problems, digestive disorders, nervous depression and skin conditions. It is found in small quantities in items like fruits and vegetables, and is essential for overall good health. Its deficiency usually occurs along with other deficiencies of other vitamins, so it is essential to maintain a well balanced diet.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only; it should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his/her health should contact a licensed medical professional.
Sources:
Goyal, G.C, Vitamins for Natural Healing, Diamond books, 2005
Bakhru, Dr.H.K, Vitamins that Heal, Orient paperbacks, 1998
Vitamins-supplements.org, Vitamins & health supplements guide--vitamin B2 (accessed March 15, 2011).
Umm.edualtmed/articles, Vitamin B2 (accessed March 15, 2011).
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