Description

PROPERTIES OF VITAMIN B2
B2 is an antioxidant, water-soluble (like all B vitamins) that is poorly stored by tissues. Therefore, it must be taken continuously with food or supplements.
The deficiency of vitamin B2 is usually accompanied by a deficiency of other vitamins and minerals, it usually occurs in people (mainly the elderly) who eat fast food, a lot of coffee drinks, cookies and sweets. Other categories of people at risk of riboflavin deficiency are chronic alcoholics and chronic liver patients, as well as those receiving total parenteral nutrition.
Another, although rare, but often fatal deficiency, since it causes lactic acidosis, is that which can be caused by certain treatments for AIDS (nucleoside analogues therapies). Taking riboflavin quickly corrects acidosis. Riboflavin participates in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins and has an important role in the energy production process. It is necessary for the oxygenation of cells, for growth and reproduction, for the health of epithelial tissues (mainly gastrointestinal system), eyes, skin, nails and hair. It is thought to fight dandruff. B2 participates in many enzymes and enzymatic processes and has important antioxidant properties, either alone or as a component of the enzyme glutathione reductase.
Epidemiological research in Iran, China and Africa shows a link between esophageal cancer and riboflavin deficiency, while according to one study its administration reduced the number of precancerous cells in the esophagus.
In high doses (400mg daily) B2 protects about 55% of those who suffer from migraines, as shown in a related study lasting 3 months, while the same seems to be the case with malaria. Surprisingly, B2 deficiency has also been shown to protect against the disease! (Obviously, due to the presence of antimalarial riboflavin antagonists in the blood).
Riboflavin is resistant to heat, but is easily destroyed by light, as well as by substances with an alkaline reaction, such as baking powder.
It is preferable to take it with food, so it is absorbed by about 60%, while when taken alone the absorption drops to 15%. Due to its easy elimination and non-storage by the body, riboflavin is considered one of the safest nutritional ingredients.
Very high doses (350 - 450mg) can cause polyuria and diarrhea in some people. The color of riboflavin is bright yellow, which also affects the color of urine, without affecting it.