Riboflavin

Riboflavin

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is a vitamin in the vitamin B complex. It is needed to help break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to be used by the body.

Common sources of riboflavin include:

  • Meats (especially liver and kidney) and fish.
  • Milk, cheese, and eggs.
  • Green leafy vegetables.
  • Whole grains and legumes.

The daily requirement for riboflavin is 1.7mg for adult men and 1.3mg for adult women. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding need more than this requirement.

Insufficient riboflavin in the diet (which is very uncommon) can lead to health problems, including skin and vaginal itching, trembling, sluggishness, dizziness, and clouding of the lens of the eye (cataract).

Credits

Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD
- Diet and Nutrition
Specialist Medical Reviewer Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE
- Diabetes Educator
Last Updated February 23, 2007