Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) functions and benefits
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Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) Functions in Human Physiology
Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for human health. It acts as a precursor to the coenzymes flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), which are crucial for many enzymatic reactions in the body. These coenzymes are involved in energy production, particularly in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, the citric acid cycle, and the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Riboflavin is also necessary for the synthesis of other vitamins, such as the conversion of vitamin B6 to its active form and the synthesis of niacin from tryptophan. Additionally, it plays a role in the folate cycle, cholesterol and steroid hormone synthesis, and DNA repair processes 13679.
Energy Metabolism and Homeostasis
Riboflavin is vital for maintaining energy balance in the body. It serves as a cofactor for enzymes that regulate the metabolism of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates, ensuring efficient energy production and homeostasis. Deficiency in riboflavin can disrupt these metabolic pathways, leading to impaired energy production and various health complications 1369.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Riboflavin has significant antioxidant properties, helping to protect the body from oxidative stress by participating in the glutathione redox cycle and other mechanisms. This antioxidant action helps reduce lipid peroxidation and protects tissues from oxidative injury. Riboflavin also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting inflammasome activation and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can help regulate the body’s inflammatory response 245.
Immune Function and Antimicrobial Activity
Riboflavin supports immune function by modulating host immune responses and enhancing pathogen clearance. It has demonstrated antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of various bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. When exposed to light, riboflavin can produce reactive oxygen species that have bactericidal effects, making it a promising candidate for antimicrobial therapies and photodynamic treatment of infections 1410.
Neurological, Cardiovascular, and Skin Health
Adequate riboflavin intake is linked to better neurological function, cardiovascular health, and skin integrity. It supports erythrocyte (red blood cell) synthesis and helps maintain healthy skin and nervous system function. Riboflavin deficiency can lead to tissue damage, particularly affecting the epithelial, reproductive, and nervous systems, and may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases due to its role in homocysteine metabolism 169.
Special Considerations: Women’s Health and Dietary Sources
Riboflavin is especially important for women due to increased demands during menstruation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Functional foods and probiotics that produce riboflavin are being explored to help meet these needs. Animal-derived foods are richer in riboflavin compared to plant-based sources, making vegetarians and vegans more susceptible to deficiency. While gut microbiota can produce some riboflavin, this is often not enough to fully compensate for lower dietary intake in plant-based diets 67.
Safety and Supplementation
Riboflavin is generally safe, even at high doses, as excess amounts are rapidly excreted in urine, sometimes causing bright-yellow urine. Severe deficiency is uncommon but can occur with inadequate intake or certain medical conditions, leading to serious health risks. Supplementation is often used to prevent or treat deficiency, especially in populations at risk 68.
Conclusion
Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is essential for energy metabolism, antioxidant defense, immune function, and the maintenance of neurological, cardiovascular, and skin health. Its broad range of benefits underscores the importance of adequate dietary intake for overall well-being. Special attention should be given to populations with increased needs or restricted dietary sources to prevent deficiency and its associated health risks 13467910.
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