Functional impact of riboflavin supplementation in urban school children

Abstract Functional consequences of subclinical riboflavin deficiency and the effect of riboflavin supplementation on these functions were investigated in children belonging to low-income group. Children who received 5 mg riboflavin supplement daily for one year were either in normal or marginal riboflavin status, whereas children in placebo group continued to be in the deficient state as judged by the erythrocyte glutathione reductase test. Supplementation brought about significant improvement in the hand steadiness and in the incidence of glossitis. It had no impact on the episodes of angular stomatitis, morbidity, performance in a running test and hand-grip strength.