What is Riboflavin?

Riboflavin is also known as vitamin B2?

Riboflavin is a vital nutrient essential for metabolic energy production?

The term 'lactochrome' was coined in 1879?

Alexander Wynter Blyth derived a luminescent substance from cow milk whey?

Frederick Gowland Hopkins proposed diets lacked essential nutrients?

Elmer McCollum distinguished fatsoluble A and water-soluble B?

Riboflavin is the second identified vitamin after Vitamin C.

Riboflavin was initially called ovaflavin.

Riboflavin acts as a coenzyme in over 140 flavoproteins.

Riboflavin maintains healthy skin, eyes, and mucous membranes.

Riboflavin plays a vital role in the synthesis of red blood cells.

Riboflavin supports the overall well-being of the cardiovascular system.

Infants require an adequate riboflavin intake of 1.4 mg/day.

Pregnant women should aim for a daily riboflavin intake of 1.6 mg/day.

Deficiency intake of riboflavin can cause alopecia.

Riboflavin research indicates potential benefits in lowering the frequency and severity of osteoporosis.

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)

Known as Vitamin B2, riboflavin is essential for metabolic energy production.
Initially termed ovaflavin, it was the second vitamin identified after Vitamin C.
Acts as a coenzyme in over 140 flavoproteins, playing a crucial role in various metabolic processes.
Necessary for maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and mucous membranes.
Important for the synthesis of red blood cells, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.

Historical Context

The term 'lactochrome' was coined in 1879, referring to a substance related to riboflavin.
Alexander Wynter Blyth extracted a luminescent substance from cow milk whey.
Frederick Gowland Hopkins highlighted the importance of essential nutrients in diets.
Elmer McCollum was instrumental in distinguishing fat-soluble vitamins, specifically vitamin A, and water-soluble vitamin B.

Nutritional Requirements

Infants need an adequate riboflavin intake of 1.4 mg/day for proper growth and development.
Pregnant women should aim for a daily intake of 1.6 mg/day to support fetal health and development.

Health Implications

A deficiency in riboflavin can lead to alopecia (hair loss).
Research suggests riboflavin may help lower the frequency and severity of osteoporosis, indicating its importance for bone health.

Test your knowledge about the essential nutrient riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, and its role in metabolic energy production. Learn about its sources and how it contributes to powering up energy levels.