Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) has a scientifically recognized role in supporting red blood cell production and overall hematological health, though its direct use as a treatment for anemia is limited primarily to cases of riboflavin deficiency. Riboflavin is a precursor of flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and flavin mononucleotide (FMN), which are cofactors essential for various enzymatic reactions in cellular energy production and metabolism, including those involved in the maturation and maintenance of erythrocytes (red blood cells). Deficiency in riboflavin can cause a form of anemia that resembles iron deficiency anemia, characterized by normocytic or microcytic hypochromic red blood cells. Several studies have shown that riboflavin supplementation corrects anemia only in populations with confirmed riboflavin deficiency, such as in malnourished individuals or certain regions with low dietary intake. For example, research from the 1970s onwards has documented improvement in hematological parameters with riboflavin supplementation in deficient subjects, but not in those with adequate riboflavin status. There is also evidence that riboflavin may modestly enhance iron absorption and utilization, but this effect is not strong enough to warrant its use as a primary treatment for anemia outside of deficiency states. In summary, riboflavin is scientifically validated as supportive in anemia due to deficiency, but there is limited evidence for its efficacy in other types of anemia. Routine supplementation is not generally recommended unless a deficiency is suspected or confirmed.

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