Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, plays important roles in the body, such as increasing blood production, maintaining proper metabolism, promoting growth, and protecting vision and the nervous system.
This vitamin can be found in foods such as whole grains, milk, yogurt, soy, egg and wheat germ, and its deficiency can cause the following symptoms in the body:
- Inflammation and sores in the corners of the mouth;
- Red and swollen tongue;
- Vision tired and sensitive to light;
- Tiredness and lack of energy;
- Decreased growth;
- Sore throat;
- Skin inflammation and desquamation;
- Anemia.
In addition to dietary deficiency, lack of vitamin B2 can also occur due to some trauma suffered by the body, such as burns and surgeries, or due to chronic diseases such as tuberculosis, rheumatic fever and diabetes.
To treat the lack of B2 in the body, one should increase the intake of foods rich in this vitamin and, when necessary, take supplements recommended by the doctor. See the full list of foods rich in vitamin B2.
Excess of vitamin B2
The excess of this vitamin usually does not cause symptoms because it is easily eliminated through the urine. However, in cases of overuse of dietary supplements, there may be an increased risk of developing kidney stones, light sensitivity, itching, and a pricking sensation on the skin.
See the full list of the benefits of this vitamin here.
