Vitamin B2 - Galway Independent

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Vitamin B2

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Wednesday, 31 January 2007

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) supplementation may improve iron deficiency anaemia by enhancing the response to iron, writes Dr Bhatti

Vitamin B2, (riboflavin) is one of eight water-soluble B vitamins. Similar to vitamin B1 (thiamine), riboflavin plays a crucial role in certain metabolic reactions, particularly the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose, which is 'burned' to produce energy. This vitamin is also necessary for red blood cell formation, antibody production, cell respiration and growth. It also facilitates the use of oxygen by the tissues of the skin, nails and hair, eliminates dandruff and helps with the absorption of iron and vitamin B6. Riboflavin also works as an antioxidant.

Unlike other B vitamins, riboflavin is not found in many foods, so the most common cause of deficiency is lack of dietary intake, especially in the elderly and people who consume large amounts of alcohol. Symptoms of riboflavin deficiency include fatigue, slowed growth, digestive problems, cracks and sores around the corners of the mouth, swollen tongue, eye fatigue, soreness of the lips, mouth and tongue, and sensitivity to light. Dietary and supplemental vitamin B2, along with other nutrients, are important for normal vision and prevention of cataracts (damage to the lens of the eye which can lead to cloudy vision). In fact, people with plenty of protein and vitamins A, B1, B2, and B3 (niacin) in their diet are less likely to develop cataracts. It can help reduce redness/rosacea and riboflavin may help decrease the frequency and shorten the duration of migraine headaches. It is especially important for people who have sustained serious burns to obtain adequate amounts of nutrients in their daily diet. When the skin is burned, a substantial percentage of micronutrients may be lost. This increases the risk for infection, slows the healing process, prolongs the hospital stay, and even increases the risk of complications and death. Although it is unclear which micronutrients are most beneficial for people with burns, many studies suggest that a multivitamin, including the B complex vitamins, may aid in the recovery process.

Levels of important nutrients may also be quite low in people with anorexia or bulimia. At least 20 per cent of people with anorexia admitted to a hospital for treatment are deficient in vitamins B2 and B6 (pyridoxine). B-complex vitamins may help alleviate stress and reduce symptoms of depression, frequently associated with eating disorders.

Children with sickle-cell anaemia (a blood disorder characterized by abnormally shaped red blood cells) tend to have lower levels of certain antioxidants, including riboflavin. Studies also suggest that riboflavin supplementation may improve iron deficiency anaemia by enhancing the response to iron. Low levels of riboflavin in the diet and/or riboflavin deficiency has been associated with rheumatoid arthritis, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Crohn's disease, colon cancer, atherosclerotic heart disease and multiple sclerosis.

Natural sources of vitamin B2 include: cheese, egg yolks, fish, legumes, meat, milk poultry, spinach, whole grains and yogurt, Brussels sprouts, leafy greens, nuts, chamomile, nettle, sage and hops.

Always consult your GP before starting any new regime or self-treatment. The contents of this article are for information purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions. Next week's topic is Vitamin B3. If you would like a topic covered, contact The Clinic of Complementary and Natural Medicine, Kiltartan House, Forster St., Galway on 091-568804.

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