Vitamin B2 - Riboflavin
What Is It?
Riboflavin was discovered in the early 19th century as a growth factor. Part of the B-complex family, this water soluble mineral is not completely destroyed by cooking, however it is easily destroyed by light, antibiotics and alcohol.
Flavins, are coenzymes derived from riboflavin and they play an important role in the metabolism and elimination of toxins, drugs, carcinogens and steroid hormones.
Vitamin B is destroyed by alcohol, oral contraceptive pills, tea, coffee and cooking (heat)
Why Do We Need It?
Riboflavin is necessary for red blood cell formation, antibody production, cell respiration. It is vital for metabolism, energy production, repair and maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails. It aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates and promotes growth, fertility, riboflavin also helps regulate body acidity.
Together with vitamin A it contributes to good vision and helps in the prevention of cataracts, it can also help with the absorption of iron and vitamin B6. Riboflavin is also required for the metabolism of the amino acid Tryptophan.
The need for vitamin B2 increases if using oral contraceptive, or if doing strenuous exercise.
B2 is especially important during pregnancy as a lack of this vitamin can damage a developing foetus.
In combination with other B vitamins including B6 (pyridoxine) and B3 (niacin) it may help with alzheimer's, epilepsy, stress, anxiety and multiple sclerosis.
Deficiency Symptoms
Deficiency symptoms can include alopecia, blurred vision, cataracts, cheilosis, cracking at corners of mouth, depression, dermatitis, digestion problems, dizziness, glossitis, growth impairment, insomnia, red, itching, burning, gritty sensation in eyes, sensitivity to bright lights, slow mental response, tongue inflammation, migraine, split nails, dental problems, anaemia and heart disease.
A riboflavin deficiency can reduce the efficiency of glutathione an important antioxidant
Where Can We Find It?
Natural Sources include apple, asparagus, avocado, banana, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, cherry, grape, green leafy vegetables, kale, lettuce, mango, mushrooms, orange, passion fruit, peas, plums, pomegranate, raspberries, spinach, spirulina, squash, strawberries, swiss chard, tomato, watercress and wheatgrass.
You can also find in herbs such as:- Alfalfa, burdock root, cayenne, chamomile, fennel seed, ginseng, nettle, peppermint and sage.
Be Aware...
Taking high doses of Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) may increase the risk of magnesium deficiency.
Supplementing excessively over a long period of time can lead to cataracts and retinal disease.
Studies/Research
Clinical studies have shown that taking thiamine intramuscular has been known to produce toxic side effects including generalised urticaria, facial deem, dyspnea, cyanosis, wheezing and anaphylactic shock.
Rare side effects have been reported from oral supplementation such as itching, shortness of breath, tachycardia, feeling hot and sweating.
Please Note
Vitamins are an essential part of maintaining a fully functional, healthy body - they assist in the growth and development of the body. In combination with all the other essential nutrients they play a part in many roles including metabolism, immunity and digestion. The best and natural way to meet your vitamin needs is to eat a balanced diet containing a variety of raw fruits and vegetables. If you can't meet your needs through food alone, then, and only then you may require dietary supplements. If you feel you need help via alternative methods you must seek guidance from your doctor, nutritionist or natural juice therapist before taking supplements.
References
www.fao.org
Nutritional Healing Phyllis A. Balch, CNC
Vitamins and Minerals demystified - Dr Steve Blake
The healing nutrients within - Eric R Braverman M.D.
Nurtitional Influences on Illness - Melvyn R. Werbach M.D.
Disclaimer
Please be aware that we are not Doctors, so it is important BEFORE making any changes that you consult with your GP or Medical Practitioner. The suggestions above are not meant as an alternative to any current medical treatment so please DO NOT stop taking any medications you are on. They are also not an endorsement of their effectiveness, nor a recommendation that they should be followed but instead, provided for informational purposes. None of the information on the Natural Juice Therapy site is intended or implied to treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease.