Vitamin B2 deficiency: the most effective dietary supplements

Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, is an essential water-soluble vitamin involved in many of the body’s metabolic processes. It is a key component of two major coenzymes: flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), which are essential for redox reactions — that is, hydrogen transfers — involved in cellular energy production. Riboflavin is also vital for the activation of other B vitamins, notably vitamin B6 and vitamin B3, and plays an important role in the production and maintenance of red blood cells, as well as in the proper functioning of the adrenal glands. It is primarily absorbed in the proximal part of the small intestine, requiring a specific transporter to enter cells where it is then converted into its active coenzymatic forms, FMN and FAD.

Dietary sources of riboflavin

Riboflavin is found in a wide variety of foods, primarily those of animal origin. Dairy products, particularly milk and cheese, are among the main dietary sources of riboflavin, providing about half of the total dietary intake of riboflavin. Other important sources include organ meats such as liver, eggs, legumes, brewer's yeast, almonds, wheat germ, brown rice, and mushrooms. It is important to note that riboflavin is light-sensitive, which can lead to significant losses when it is exposed to sunlight. However, it is relatively stable to heat, oxidation, and acids, which means that most cooking methods do not reduce its concentration in foods. Refined grains, such as white rice or white flour, are low in riboflavin because the refining process removes a large portion of this vitamin.

Symptoms and consequences of riboflavin deficiency

Although riboflavin deficiency, or ariboflavinosis, is relatively rare, it can have significant health consequences. Early signs of a deficiency include weakness, fatigue, mouth inflammations, as well as eye problems such as burning or itching. Riboflavin deficiency primarily affects rapidly renewing tissues, such as the skin and mucous membranes, resulting in symptoms like seborrheic dermatitis, anemia, and peripheral neuropathy. People at increased risk of developing riboflavin deficiency include those with liver disease, chronic alcoholism, as well as those taking certain medications such as oral contraceptives, tricyclic antidepressants, and chemotherapeutic drugs.

Supplementation and prevention of deficiencies

Prevention of riboflavin deficiency mainly relies on a varied and balanced diet rich in dairy products, organ meats, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables. Daily riboflavin needs vary according to age, sex, and health status, with recommended amounts of around 1.7 mg per day for adults. For people at increased risk of deficiency, riboflavin supplementation may be necessary. In cases of severe deficiency, therapeutic doses of riboflavin, generally around 5 to 30 mg per day, are administered for a period of one month. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to assess specific riboflavin needs, particularly in the presence of chronic medical conditions or when taking medications that could interfere with the absorption or metabolism of riboflavin.