Goals: Brain, Heart, Migraines, Essential for Energy Production, Beauty, Mood, Eye, Gut & Colon, Immune System, Men's Good Aging, Pre-workout, Sleep & Awaken, Stress & Depression, Weight Management, Women's Good Aging
Role: Riboflavin is part of two major coenzymes, FMN and FAD, which are involved in energy production, growth and development, and the metabolism of fats, drugs, and steroids. It helps maintain normal levels of homocysteine, associated with heart disease, and is necessary for converting the amino acid tryptophan into niacin (Vitamin B3) and vitamin B6 into its active form.
Daily Intake: The net RDA for adults is 1.3 mg for men and 1.1 mg for women. During pregnancy and lactation, the intake should increase to 1.4 mg and 1.6 mg respectively.
Supplementation: Symptoms of deficiency may include cracked lips, sore throat, swollen tongue, hair loss, skin rash, itchy red eyes, and in severe cases, cataracts. Riboflavin is considered safe as the body excretes excess amounts, and no toxic level has been observed from food sources or supplements.
Research: Researchers believe there may be a link between riboflavin, mitochondrial cell function, and migraines. Mitochondria are your body’s energy makers, and riboflavin may ease stress and minimize nerve inflammation contributing to migraines, especially in people with chronic migraines. Some experts suggest that riboflavin prevents cancer-causing substances (carcinogens) from damaging cells. Also may play a role in preventing or treating conditions such as cataracts, preeclampsia, seizures, and dementia.