Vitamin B2 Deficiency

Will it make any difference to overall health, if the body does not get its daily vitamin B2 (riboflavin) dosage from natural sources? Yes, of course! Riboflavin benefits are plenty. From assisting in energy production to promoting metabolism of certain compounds, from healing skin disorders like acne to improving immunity against infections, the presence of vitamin B2 in sufficient amounts is necessary to carry out these processes effectively. So, the onset of vitamin B2 deficiency is certainly bad time for health. It is discussed below:

Symptoms

Eye Problems
Patients with low vitamin B2 often complain about eye irritation and watery eyes. Although, inadequate vitamin B2 levels might not interfere with normal vision, it is likely to trigger unusual painful burning sensations in the eyes. Persistent redness and itchy feeling in the eyes followed by increased sensitivity to light also point towards vitamin B2 deficiency. However, long-standing deficiency of riboflavin can also make adults prone to eye diseases like cataracts, amblyopia and corneal vascularization.

Mouth Problems
In some cases, cracks at the corners of the mouth are distinctly visible. Sores may also erupt in the mouth. This may be followed by inflammation in the lining of the mouth and throat, thus making it difficult to swallow food. A diet rich in vitamin B2 promotes youthful, healthy glowing skin. So, with low levels of vitamin B2, skin health takes a backseat. It accelerates aging of skin. As a result, person deficient in vitamin B2, may soon notice wrinkles getting formed on the facial skin.

Hair Problems
With a diet lacking in vitamin B2, do not expect healthy locks of hair. Hair lose their natural shine and appear more oily. No wonder, people showing low riboflavin in blood tests are found complaining about dullness in hair. Moderate to severe vitamin B2 shortage can also make a person susceptible to hair loss problems.

Skin Problems
Even a slight deviation of vitamin B2 levels from the normal range can immediately turn the skin oily. Moderate to severe deficiency can lead to formation of skin lesions. The presence of skin problems like dermatitis has also been linked to shortage of vitamin B2. Flaky, peeling skin near the nose is also observed in patients diagnosed with insufficient vitamin B2 levels.

Causes

Poor Diet
Not following a healthy diet is one of the primary reasons behind low vitamin B2 in the body. Bad food choices deprives the body of its essential nutrients. So, one has to be very careful what one prefers to eat during meals. Diet lacking in riboflavin foods like green vegetables, milk and dietary products such as yogurt and cheese is one of the main factors responsible for causing vitamin B2 deficiency.

Alcoholism
Too much alcohol or coffee consumption also increases the risk of low vitamin B2 levels. Apart from alcohol, excessive smoking or intake of other tobacco based products can also lead to sharp fall in vitamin B2 levels.

Diseases
Chronic illnesses are yet another culprits behind sudden deviation of vitamin B2 levels. People who have had suffered from prolonged illnesses of the liver or other chronic infections may be diagnosed with vitamin B2 deficiency.

Considering these bothersome symptoms, it would be wise to follow a healthy diet. Healthy food choices can work wonders to prevent and overcome health problems associated with vitamin B2 shortage. Additionally, the doctor may recommend the necessary supplements that need to be taken orally to alleviate symptoms.