Functions and Roles of Vitamin B2
Disease description:
I am a 25-year-old female. Recently, I developed several mouth ulcers for unknown reasons. My doctor prescribed vitamin B2 (riboflavin), and I was surprised that vitamin B2 could have such an effect. Could you please explain the functions and benefits of vitamin B2?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays important roles in maintaining human health, as follows:
1. Energy metabolism: Vitamin B2 is one of the essential components involved in the process of energy metabolism. As a structural component of the coenzymes flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and flavin mononucleotide (FMN), it participates in various redox reactions, helping to convert fats, carbohydrates, and proteins from food into energy, thus maintaining normal metabolic activities in the body.
2. Antioxidant function: Vitamin B2 has significant antioxidant capabilities, helping to remove free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. This function helps maintain the integrity and function of cell membranes, potentially slowing the aging process and preventing diseases caused by oxidative damage.
3. Vision health: Vitamin B2 participates in the synthesis of visual pigments and plays a positive role in maintaining the health of the eyes and visual system. Its presence in the cornea helps maintain clear vision and normal function of ocular tissues.
If a patient exhibits symptoms of vitamin B2 deficiency or is considering supplementation, it should be done under the guidance of a physician.
