Effects of deficiency or supplementation of riboflavin on energy metabolism: a systematic review with preclinical studies.

This systematic review focuses on the role of riboflavin (vitamin B2) in regulating energy metabolism related to lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates, based on preclinical in vivo and in vitro studies. Riboflavin acts as a precursor of flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and flavin mononucleotide (FMN), essential cofactors in mitochondrial energy production and redox reactions. The review found that riboflavin deficiency impairs lipid metabolism, enzymatic activity, gluconeogenesis, and energy balance, while supplementation enhances fatty acid oxidation, polyunsaturated fatty acid synthesis, adiponectin release, and reduces food intake and body weight in animal models. These findings highlight riboflavin's involvement in primary metabolic pathways and suggest potential benefits of pharmacological riboflavin use for energy balance regulation.