Riboflavin

Riboflavin is a B vitamin that is required for a wide variety of cellular processes. It plays a key role in metabolizing energy from fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.

Deficiencies: Riboflavin deficiency is characterized by weakness, sore throat, cracked and red lips, and inflammation of the lining of the mouth and tongue. The eyes may become bloodshot, itchy, watery, and sensitive to bright light. Long-term effects are unknown, although deficiency in children results in reduced growth. Riboflavin deficiency is always accompanied by deficiency of other vitamins.

Food sources: Small amounts of riboflavin are present in most plant and animal tissues. Especially good sources are milk, eggs, enriched cereals and grains, ice cream, liver, some lean meats, and green vegetables such as broccoli. As much as a third of North American intake is attributed to milk and other dairy products.

2000-Calorie Diet Recommendations

Shown below are the reference numbers used to compute the Daily Value percentages that appear on the Nutrition Facts labels on foods sold in the U.S. These numbers are meant to approximate the nutrients needed for the average person consuming 2000 calories per day.

Click any of the vitamin or nutrient names below to learn more about the importance of each element, and to see detailed dietary allowances for specific population groups.

***Daily Value recommendations are based on a 2000-calorie diet. Recommendations for individuals will vary depending on gender, age, weight, and other factors.