Definition: Riboflavin, or vitamin B-2, is a member of the water-soluble family of B-Complex vitamins. It's required for glucose metabolism so your body can produce energy from carbohydrates, normal red blood cell production and general body growth. Deficiency is rare.
Daily Requirements
Males
1 to 3 years: 0.5 milligrams per day
4 to 8 years: 0.6 milligrams per day
9 to 13 years: 0.9 milligrams per day
14 + years: 1.3 milligrams per day
Females
1 to 3 years: 0.5 milligrams per day
4 to 8 years: 0.6 milligrams per day
9 to 13 years: 0.9 milligrams per day
14 to 18 years: 1.0 milligrams per day
18+ years: 1.1 milligrams per day
Riboflavin is found naturally in lean meats, eggs, leafy green vegetables, nuts, legumes, fortified breads and cereals, milk and dairy products. It's sensitive to light, so foods rich in riboflavin should not be stored in clear containers. Riboflavin intake is usually adequate in a normal diet so supplementation should not be necessary.
Also Known As: vitamin B2
