All eight B-complex vitamins play an important role in human metabolism and growth. Vitamin B-2, also known as riboflavin, is often taken in supplement form to prevent certain health problems and increase energy. Like the other B vitamins, B-2 is water-soluble, which means that it is not stored in the body and needs to be replenished from outside sources.
Body Functions
Riboflavin plays an important role in many body functions. Like other B vitamins, it helps the body metabolize food into glucose, providing fuel for growth. Riboflavin also possesses antioxidant properties, which help to combat the harmful effects of free radicals and prevent chronic disease. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, riboflavin helps the body convert other vitamins, such as B-6 and folate, into their active forms, and it aids in the production of red blood cells.
Deficiency
Adequate riboflavin intake prevents riboflavin deficiency, which may result in a variety of undesired symptoms. Fortunately, riboflavin is found in many food sources, including milk, dairy products, meat, grains, eggs and mushrooms. Riboflavin deficiency is particularly common in the elderly and in alcoholics. Symptoms include mouth sores, cracking at the sides of the mouth and inflammation of the tongue. Riboflavin deficiency may also cause other vitamin deficiencies, such as niacin, B-6 and folate, according to the Clemson Cooperative Extension.
Other Benefits
Riboflavin is often used for a variety of other health conditions, according to MedlinePlus. These include cervical cancer, migraine headaches, acne, muscle cramps, burning feet syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, blood disorders and eye problems. However, not all of these uses have been proven effective. MedlinePlus rates riboflavin as "possibly effective" for only two of these: the prevention of migraine headaches and cataracts. Although riboflavin does not decrease the severity of migraines, it can reduce their frequency.
Recommended Dosage
The recommended daily intake for riboflavin varies depending on your gender and age. For example, males older than 19 need 1.3 mg. per day, whereas women over age 19 need only 1.1 mg. per day. However, pregnant and nursing women need even more than men, with a recommended daily intake of 1.4 mg/day during pregnancy and 1.6 mg./day during lactation. Most people are able to meet their recommended daily intake through dietary sources alone, without needing supplementation.
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