Vitamin B2 is also referred to as riboflavin. Riboflavin produces reactive and carcinogenic substances that allow our bodies to use oxygen properly. Riboflavin assists in the metabolism (breakdown) of amino acids and fatty acids by breaking through their shields that protect them. Riboflavin, as does thiamine (Vitamin B1), helps in the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B2 is necessary for maintaining healthy skin, nails, and hair growth; and also helps in regulating processes taking place in the thyroid gland.

Riboflavin assists in the production of hormones in the adrenal gland and is used in the activation Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), which helps to convert the amino acid tryptophan into nicotinic acid (Vitamin B3). As you can see all the vitamins in the B-category all work together to help each other. Vitamin B2 also helps in the process of cell respiration and growth and with the production of much needed antibodies. Riboflavin helps in the treatment and prevention of many optical disorders such as: cataracts, bloodshot eyes, burning or itchy eyes, and some types of light sensitivity. Other uses for riboflavin include helping the digestive tract by protecting certain mucus membranes and inhibiting the intake of excessive protein.

Deficiencies of Vitamin B2 can include: sores and cracks at the corners of the mouth, lesions on your skin such as dermatitis, tongue inflammation, insomnia, hair loss, burning feet, dizziness, and slow mental responses. Unfortunately, Vitamin B2 is not contained in many foods; hence proper intake is not sufficient for most people, especially the elderly. Food sources that contain riboflavin include: leafy green vegetables, cheeses, milk, liver, almonds, soybeans, and yeast. Keep these foods out of well lit areas because, light destroys riboflavin.

Vitamin Depot Online.com offers Vitamin B2 Powder, a powder form of riboflavin and B2 Caps, riboflavin in a capsule form. The recommended daily allowance of Vitamin B2 in the body is properly provided by both forms.