Vitamin B2: Essential for Energy and Cellular Health

Vitamin B2, or riboflavin, is a crucial water-soluble vitamin that supports various bodily functions, including energy metabolism, enzyme activity, and the maintenance of healthy skin and eyes. It plays a vital role in growth, development, and overall well-being.

Energy Production and Metabolism

Riboflavin is essential for energy production through its involvement in forming two key coenzymes: flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and flavin mononucleotide (FMN). These coenzymes facilitate the conversion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy, ensuring the body's metabolic processes function efficiently.

Antioxidant and Cellular Protection

This vitamin possesses powerful antioxidant properties, contributing to the regeneration of glutathione, a key antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress. By combating free radicals, riboflavin supports cellular health and may play a role in slowing the aging process and preventing disease.

Eye and Skin Health

Vitamin B2 is closely linked to maintaining healthy vision, helping to prevent cataracts and support overall eye function. Additionally, it promotes the integrity of skin, mucous membranes, and the digestive tract lining, ensuring proper skin structure and a well-functioning digestive system.

Role in Iron Metabolism

Riboflavin plays a lesser-known but essential role in iron metabolism. It aids in converting vitamin B6 and folate into their active forms, supporting red blood cell production and ensuring efficient iron utilization in the body.

Deficiency Risks and Symptoms

Deficiency in vitamin B2 can arise from inadequate dietary intake, digestive disorders affecting absorption, or increased needs during certain life stages. Alcohol consumption can also impair riboflavin absorption and lead to excessive excretion, increasing deficiency risk. Symptoms of deficiency include sensitivity to light, loss of appetite, fatigue, irritability, mouth inflammation, cracked lips, a red tongue, and itchy, tired eyes.

Maintaining Optimal Levels

As a water-soluble vitamin, excess riboflavin is excreted through urine, necessitating consistent daily intake. A balanced diet typically prevents deficiency, but supplementation can provide additional support. Nannar supplements, sourced from high-quality, grass-fed, antibiotic-free organ meats, offer a potent and natural way to maintain optimal riboflavin levels and support overall health.