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Riboflavin

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What is Riboflavin?

Riboflavin is a water-soluble vitamin. It is needed for normal cell function, growth, and energy production. Small amounts of riboflavin are found in most animal and plant tissues. Healthy individuals who eat a balanced diet rarely need riboflavin supplements. Milk (and other dairy products), eggs, enriched cereals/grains, meats, liver and green vegetables (like asparagus or broccoli) are especially good sources of riboflavin.



Side Effects

Burning/prickling sensation, discolored urine, itching, numbness.



Reactions / Interactions

Anticholinergics, drugs for malaria, doxorubicin (Adriamycin®), methotrexate, birth control pills, phenobarbitol, phenothiazine antipsychotic drugs (like chlorpromazine), phenytoin (DIlantin®), probenecid, tamoxifen, tetracycline, thiazide diuretics, tricyclic antidepressants (like imipramine, desimpramine, amitriptyline or nortriptyline), b-complex vitamins, and other herbs or supplements with similar effects.



What is Riboflavin?

Riboflavin is a water-soluble vitamin. It is needed for normal cell function, growth, and energy production. Small amounts of riboflavin are found in most animal and plant tissues. Healthy individuals who eat a balanced diet rarely need riboflavin supplements. Milk (and other dairy products), eggs, enriched cereals/grains, meats, liver and green vegetables (like asparagus or broccoli) are especially good sources of riboflavin.

Side Effects

Burning/prickling sensation, discolored urine, itching, numbness.

Reactions / Interactions

Anticholinergics, drugs for malaria, doxorubicin (Adriamycin®), methotrexate, birth control pills, phenobarbitol, phenothiazine antipsychotic drugs (like chlorpromazine), phenytoin (DIlantin®), probenecid, tamoxifen, tetracycline, thiazide diuretics, tricyclic antidepressants (like imipramine, desimpramine, amitriptyline or nortriptyline), b-complex vitamins, and other herbs or supplements with similar effects.

Safety

Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to riboflavin. Since the amount of riboflavin a human can absorb is limited, riboflavin is generally considered safe. Riboflavin is generally regarded as being safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for riboflavin in pregnant women is higher than for non-pregnant women, and is 1.4mg daily (1.6mg for breastfeeding women).

Dosage

Adults (18 years and older)

U.S. Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adults (taken by mouth): 1.0mg for female teenagers (14-18 years old); 1.3mg for male teenagers (14-18 years old); 1.1mg for female adults (older than 18 years); 1.3mg for male adults (older than 18 years); 1.4mg for pregnant women (any age); 1.6mg for breastfeeding women (any age).

Children (18 years and younger)

U.S. Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for infants and children (taken by mouth): 0.3mg for 0-6 months old; 0.4mg for 7-12 months old; 0.5mg for 1-3 years old; 0.6mg for 4-8 years old; 0.9mg for 9-13 years old; 1.0mg for female teenagers (14-18 years old); 1.3mg for male teenagers (14-18 years old).

Evidence

Condition: Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) in newborn infants Grade: A

Condition: Riboflavin deficiency (ariboflavinosis) Grade: A

Condition: Anemia (iron deficiency) Grade: C

Condition: Anorexia/bulimia (eating disorders) Grade: C

Condition: Cancer of the esophagus Grade: C

Condition: Cataracts Grade: C

Condition: Depression Grade: C

Condition: Ethylmalonic encephalopathy Grade: C

Condition: Malaria Grade: C

Condition: Mental function Grade: C

Condition: Migraine headache prevention Grade: C

Condition: Preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy) Grade: C

Disclaimer: These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Content provided by:

"Content Licensed by Natural Standard. Copyright 2009 by Natural Standard Corporation."


While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy. The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.

Riboflavin Videos

Riboflavin Articles

  • List of Foods Containing Riboflavin

    riboflavin (vitamin B2) is a micronutrient (needed in small amounts) that is essential for human health. The main function of riboflavin is to act as a co-enzyme in energy metabolism--in other word...

  • 5 Things You Need to Know About Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

    We need Vitamin B2, or riboflavin, to process the calories out of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. It helps metabolize fats in our body. Our bodies need riboflavin to promote healthy cell growth ...

  • How to Treat a Chronic Headache

    Take over-the-counter pain relievers. These include aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Be careful when taking acetaminophen, because in large quantities it can cause liver damage, especially whe...

  • Foods High in Vitamin B Complex

    The vitamin B complex is a group of vitamins and supplements that are essential for proper nutrition. They help to boost the nervous system, aid in cell reproduction and are a key component in hear...

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Images provided by Google

Food for Thought

Nabisco Fig Newtons (snack pack)

...RON, THIAMINE MONONITRATE [VITAMIN B1], RIBOFLAVIN [VITAMIN B2], FOLIC ACID), FIGS PRESERVED WITH SULFUR DIOXIDE, ...

Calories: 200     Fat: 4g     Cholesterol: 0mg     Sodium: 230mg     Total Carbohydrates: 39g     Fiber: 3g     Sugars: 22g     Protein: 2g     Vitamin C:    

WestSoy Plus Vanilla

...them with calcium, vitamins A and D and riboflavin. This way you can use Plus as you would whole dairy milk and wo...

Calories: 130     Fat: 3g     Cholesterol:     Sodium: 125mg     Total Carbohydrates: 19g     Fiber: 3g     Sugars: 14g     Protein: 7g     Vitamin C:    

Ritz Snack Crackers, Whole Wheat

...RON, THIAMINE MONONITRATE [VITAMIN B1], RIBOFLAVIN [VITAMIN B2], FOLIC ACID), WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT FLOUR, SOYBEAN OIL...

Calories: 70     Fat: 2.5g     Cholesterol: 0mg     Sodium: 120mg     Total Carbohydrates: 11g     Fiber: >1g     Sugars: 2g     Protein: 1g     Vitamin C:    

celery, raw

...holesterol. It is also a good source of Riboflavin, Vitamin B6, Pantothenic Acid, Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphoru...

Calories: 6     Fat: .07g     Cholesterol: 0mg     Sodium: 32mg     Total Carbohydrates: 1.19g     Fiber: .6g     Sugars: .73g     Protein: .28g     Vitamin C: 2%    

Panera Bread Sourdough XL Loaf

...in, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), water, salt, yeast, dough conditioners (ascorbic ...

Calories: 140     Fat: 0.5g     Cholesterol: 0mg     Sodium: 290mg     Total Carbohydrates: 28g     Fiber: 1g     Sugars: 0g     Protein: 5g     Vitamin C:    

Dunkin' Donuts Donut, Vanilla Kreme Filled

...cin, Reduced Iron, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Water, Sugar, Palm Oil, Partially Hydrogenated So...

Calories: 320     Fat: 16g     Cholesterol: 0mg     Sodium: 360mg     Total Carbohydrates: 39g     Fiber: 1g     Sugars: 19g     Protein: 4g     Vitamin C: 0%    

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Conversations On Riboflavin

  • Percentages on various things


    • Posted On March 8, 2007 12:20:11 PM

      ...min E 1.91333333 Thiamin (B1) 0.204 Riboflavin (B2) 0.153 Niacin (B3) 2.28 Vitamin B6 2.505 Folic Acid (Folate) 30 Phosphorus 0.4 Magnesium 28.1 Panthothenic Acid 0.1701 Zinc 4... Read More

    • Posted On March 8, 2007 08:13:34 AM

      I need to know what % of my daily value is good for items just as Sugars, Carbs, protein, etc. I am at 7% right now for the day but what is a good percent for these items. Read More

  • P90x Recovery Forumla: Good or Bad?


    • Posted On March 16, 2009 07:08:37 AM

      ...333% • Calcium 5% Thiamin 30% • Iron 0% Riboflavin 30% • Phosphorus 7% Niacin 30% • Magnesium 60% **Percent Daily Values (DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. †Daily Value (DV) not established... Read More

    • Posted On March 16, 2009 12:12:06 PM

      If you work hard then it is GOOD for you right after a workout. Read More

  • spinach entry way off


    • Posted On March 31, 2008 06:36:52 PM

      ... Vitamin K 1110.6% Thiamin (B1) 11.3% Riboflavin (B2) 24.7% Niacin (B3) 4.4% Vitamin B6 22% Vitamin B12 0% Magnesium 39.1% Panthothenic Acid 0.018mg Zinc 9.1% Manganese 84.0% FYI: I... Read More

    • Posted On March 31, 2008 06:29:21 PM

      Way too many carbs & protein in here http://www.thedailyplate.com/nutrition- ... ic/spinach I noticed this when I entered 3 cups of this for 21 calories & 17 grams of protein. No way ... Read More

  • vitamin content of foods eaten


    • Posted On November 7, 2008 01:27:17 PM

      ...itamin E5 * Thiamin (B1)18.25 * Riboflavin (B2)41.75 * Niacin (B3)23.75 * Vitamin B616.25 * Folic Acid (Folate)20.75 * Vitamin B1237.5 * Magnesium5 * Zinc8 * ... Read More

    • Posted On November 7, 2008 01:41:16 PM

      ...tamin K1 * Thiamin (B1)2.4338 * Riboflavin (B2)4.0054 * Niacin (B3)3.0786 * Vitamin B621.184 * Folic Acid (Folate)5 * Phosphorus3.5 * Magnesium10 * Panthothenic A... Read More

  • Eggs the miracle food????


    • Posted On April 2, 2008 12:20:08 PM

      ...luding iron, zinc, folate, phosphorous, riboflavin, vitamins A, D, E and B-12, and other good stuff, are in the yolks. Edited to add: Oops, leahault beat me to it! Read More

    • Posted On April 2, 2008 09:52:28 AM

      [size=150:y3k9hs3c]ok so i read online somewhere that hard boiled eggs are very good for you becasue your body uses more calories to process the egg than what the egg has is that true?? Read More

  • Weight Watchers Bagels


    • Posted On December 5, 2007 02:23:07 PM

      ...IN, REDUCED IRON, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, RIBOFLAVIN, FOLIC ACID), SOYBEAN OIL, L-CYSTEINE, CALCIUM PROPIONATE (preservative), ENZYMES, ASCORBIC ACID, SUCRALOSE (a no calorie sweetener). Read More

    • Posted On December 3, 2007 04:40:27 PM

      Is the nutritional information on the package right? It claims to have only 32 grams of carbs for that HUGE bagel! I don't know, I'm a little skeptical since most bagels of that size have upwards o... Read More

Show More

Riboflavin Blogs

Ode to the Guinness

Sunday, in my opinion, is always a fun day for a beer. So on this fall day (the perfect time of year to have one), I write my Ode to the Guinness because it is one of my favorite beers out there. Right off the bat, I have to say the first time I ever...

Bamboo

Bamboo is the tallest grass in the world. It has a lot of usage like the trunk can be used in furniture business, cottages or houses. Bamboo shoots is a vegetable with a lot of nutrients. Bamboo furniture is evolving and the world market is big for this...

Mullin' it over

Quick: Name the king of the tree crops. OK, we dont have a clue either, but we do know that the mulberry once held the lofty status of king of the tree crops until it was squished into obscurity. Now, health nuts have rediscovered that mulberries are...

Quick and Tasty Turkey Burgers

Here’s a great recipe for this busy time of year — the holidays.  This is one of my favorite go-to recipes when I need to make a quick dinner.  It tastes great and when served with a vegetable side dish, provides a really quick but...

Show More

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Riboflavin Topic Guide

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Connect With People Who Have Riboflavin

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Talk

maureenmill: Riboflavin/In New Haven/peeps imbibin'/Infuse to reduce confusion/Oh, that's thiamine deficiency #metabo-ill-sm #thegame

ParentsElite: Riboflavin: the “energizing” Vitamin B - http://tinyurl.com/ykr7e25

brosia_18: Don b dwnin sunny d! It got all dha vitamins nd riboflavin for healthy kids!

michellemuffins: Riboflavin<3 ilu.

lankyjoe: Why are persimmons so under-the-radar these days? They are a great source of vitamin C and riboflavin, and taste so good with Irish Cheddar!

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