Why Do We Need Vitamin B2?

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) is manufactured in the body by the intestinal flora and is easily absorbed, although very small quantities are stored, so there is a constant need for this vitamin.

Signs & Symptoms of Vitamin B2 Deficiency:
Fatigue
Slowed growth
Digestive problems
Cracks and sores around the corners of the mouth (cheilosis)
Swollen magenta tongue
Eye fatigue, bloodshot eyes
Soreness of the lips, mouth, and tongue
Sensitivity to light
Cataracts

Vitamin B2 has been shown to be beneficial in the following conditions:
Prevention of cataracts in combination with other vitamins
Migraine headaches
Burns
Enhances wound strength/healing
Eating disorders
Depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric conditions
Iron deficiency anemia (by enhancing the response to iron supplementation)
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Parkinson¡¦s disease
May help prevent preeclampsia

Prescription Drugs that deplete Vitamin B2:
Antibiotics (only in long term use)
Tricyclic antidepressants
Phenothiazines (such as chlorpromazine).
Birth control pills
Methotrexate.
Phenytoin (Dilantin) in children
Probenecid (Benemid).
Thiazide diuretics (HCTZ, Maxzide, Dyazide, Microzide)
Adriamycin (a chemotherapy drug).

Laboratory testing for Vitamin B2:
Red blood cell glutathione reductase activation test
Leukocyte functional tests.

Vitamin B2 Food Sources:
Brewer's yeast, almonds, organ meats such as liver and kidney, fish, whole grains, wheat germ, wild rice, mushrooms, soybeans, milk and milk products, yogurt, eggs, broccoli, brussel sprouts, and spinach.  Flours and cereals are usually fortified with riboflavin.