Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) blood test in Chiswick
Checks your riboflavin level, a B vitamin involved in energy production and in recycling other B vitamins. Useful if you avoid dairy and eggs, have cracked lips or a sore tongue, or follow a restrictive diet.
What the test measures
Riboflavin, also called vitamin B2, is part of two coenzymes that the body uses to release energy from food and to support the work of other vitamins, including B6 and folate. It is water-soluble and only stored in small amounts, so a steady intake matters. Milk, yoghurt, eggs, meat, mushrooms and fortified cereals are among the main sources in a UK diet.
Low riboflavin is uncommon on its own and tends to appear alongside other B vitamin shortages. It is more likely if you eat few animal products without fortified alternatives, drink heavily, or have a condition affecting absorption. Signs can include cracks at the corners of the mouth, a sore red tongue and sore, itchy eyes, though these have many other causes. The price includes the blood sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner and a GP feedback report on request.
Who it is for
- You follow a vegan or dairy-free diet and want to check your intake is adequate.
- You have cracks at the corners of your mouth, a sore tongue or sore eyes that have not settled.
- You drink alcohol regularly and want to look at your B vitamin status.
- You have a digestive condition or have had surgery that affects how you absorb nutrients.
- You are older and your appetite or diet has become limited.
Understanding your result
Your report shows the riboflavin result with the laboratory reference range. A low level can point towards low intake or reduced absorption, and it can occur at the same time as low B6 or folate, so your practitioner may suggest looking at those too. Results inside the range are reassuring, although they do not explain every symptom.
High levels are usually harmless and reflect supplements, as extra riboflavin is passed out in urine. A result outside the range is a starting point for discussion with your practitioner rather than a diagnosis.
Preparing for your test
We will confirm any preparation when you book, as some laboratories prefer a fasting sample. Mention any riboflavin, B complex or multivitamin supplements you take, including high-dose riboflavin used for migraine, since these will raise the result.
If you would like to check other B vitamins at the same time, see our vitamin B12 test or the Nutritional and Digestive Health check. Compare every blood test and price in Chiswick.
Questions
How much is a vitamin B2 blood test in Chiswick?
The vitamin B2 (riboflavin) blood test costs £139. This covers your sample at our Chiswick clinic, laboratory analysis, a review of the result with a practitioner and a GP feedback report if you would like one.
Can vegans be low in riboflavin?
It is possible, because dairy and eggs are major sources in the UK. Fortified plant milks, cereals, mushrooms, almonds and yeast extract help. A test can show whether your intake is meeting your needs.
Why has my urine turned bright yellow?
This is a harmless and well-known effect of riboflavin supplements or B complex tablets, as extra riboflavin is passed out in urine.
Will a low result explain my sore mouth?
It may contribute, but cracked lips and a sore tongue can also be linked to low iron, B12, folate, infections or skin conditions. Your practitioner will look at the whole picture.
