Riboflavin
Riboflavin Benefits
Helps Reduce The Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
One of the top benefits of vitamin B2 is that it helps lower blood pressure by decreasing the levels of homocysteine in the blood.[r69] Homocysteine is an amino acid, mainly found in meat. High levels of this amino acid are connected to the early development of heart disease.
Can Possibly Reduce Migraine Risks
Riboflavin is an extremely beneficial component for reducing the severity of migraines. Vitamin B2 or riboflavin performs an undeniably important function in our bodies – it increases the production of glucose, which helps enhance brain function.[r70] Our brain is known to be one of the top organs that demand glucose. Hence, incorporating riboflavin in our diet helps relieve migraines.
Essential For Healthy Eyes
Consumption of riboflavin or vitamin B2 is known to produce one of the most important antioxidants in the human body known as glutathione. This antioxidant is well-known for its major role in maintaining proper health of the eye. Vitamin B2 also helps prevent cataracts.[r67] In the event of low levels of glutathione in our bodies, the oxidative stress becomes unbearable for the eyes, and they are severely affected.
Excellent For Pregnancy Health
Preeclampsia is a serious condition that appears in the later stages of pregnancy (usually after 20 weeks of pregnancy). This condition entails a sudden rise in blood pressure that is extremely dangerous for both the mother and baby. Riboflavin or vitamin B2 is widely prescribed as supplements to pregnant women for preventing this condition. Vitamin B2 helps keep tabs on the blood pressure and prevents preeclampsia.[r71]
Converts Foods Into Energy
Consumption of riboflavin, along with a balanced diet is essential for overall health and nutrition of the body. Riboflavin in our body helps break down food – especially carbohydrates, proteins, and fats which in turn provide energy and nutrients to the body.
May Help Reduce Risk of Cancer
There is evidence that vitamin B2 or riboflavin can help prevent cancer.[r65] The underlying theory is that B2 can protect cellular DNA from getting damaged by various cancer-causing agents, such as cigarette smoke. Riboflavin is claimed to balance the functions of the cells and in turn protects them from damage.[r65] In this regard, scientists believe that cancers like cervical cancer and esophageal cancer can be reduced with the consumption of riboflavin.
Daily Intake For Riboflavin
Healthy Foods High In Riboflavin
- All food nutrient profiles are based on a weight of 100 grams.
- * RDI values are based on a diet of 2,000 calories a day (Female, Age 19-30).
- All foods are vegetarian.
Sources
- r128. Self Nutrition Data
- r74. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Sources, Benefits and Dosage
- r73. What are the food sources of vitamin B2 (riboflavin)?
- r72. 15 Healthy Foods High in B Vitamins
- r71. Riboflavin deficiency and preeclampsia.
- r70. Riboflavin prophylaxis in pediatric and adolescent migraine
- r69. Riboflavin lowers blood pressure in cardiovascular disease patients homozygous for the 677C-->T polymorphism in MTHFR.
- r68. High-dose riboflavin treatment is efficacious in migraine prophylaxis: an open study in a tertiary care centre.
- r67. Riboflavin
- r66. Learn About Vitamin B2 in 5 Minutes
- r65. Riboflavin (vitamin B-2) and health
- r64. Benefits and sources of vitamin B2