Daily OTC Pearl: Vitamin B2

OTC/Lifestyle Pearl of the Day: Vitamin B2

Indication: Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is needed to help break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It also makes it possible for oxygen to be used by your body.

Insight:

• Vitamin B2 is a water-soluble vitamin that is flushed out of the body daily, so it must be restored each day.
• The best way to obtain this vitamin is by eating foods that are rich in riboflavin.
• Foods with vitamin B2: Riboflavin is found in eggs, nuts, dairy products, meats, broccoli, brewer's yeast, brussels sprouts, wheat germ, wild rice, mushrooms, soybeans, green leafy vegetables, and whole grain and enriched cereals and bread.
• Causes of vitamin B2 deficiency may include alcoholism, burns, cancer, diarrhea, fever, illness, infection, and liver disease.
• Recommended daily allowance for Riboflavin is as below:
  • Adults and teenage males—1.4 to 1.8 mg per day.
  • Adults and teenage females—1.2 to 1.3 mg per day.
  • Pregnant females—1.6 mg per day.
  • Breast-feeding females—1.7 to 1.8 mg per day.
  • Children 7 to 10 years of age—1.2 mg per day.
  • Children 4 to 6 years of age—1.1 mg per day.
  • Children birth to 3 years of age—0.4 to 0.8 mg per day

Sources:

• Riboflavin (Oral Route) Description and Brand Names - Mayo Clinic
• Riboflavin (Oral Route) Proper Use - Mayo Clinic
• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Sources, Benefits and Dosage | Live Science