What form of riboflavin is commonly used in dietary supplements?

Riboflavin-5-phosphate, also known as flavin mononucleotide (FMN), is the phosphorylated form of riboflavin (vitamin B2) and is commonly found in dietary supplements. This form is bioactive and plays vital roles in cellular metabolism, including acting as a coenzyme in various enzymatic reactions essential for energy production and the metabolism of fats, drugs, and steroids.

Its use in dietary supplements is popular because it is more readily absorbed and utilized by the body compared to regular riboflavin. By providing riboflavin in the form of riboflavin-5-phosphate, manufacturers can ensure that individuals receive an efficient means of supplementation that supports key biological functions, especially in populations at higher risk for deficiency, such as pregnant women and individuals with certain metabolic disorders.

In contrast, riboflavin diglucoside and other flavin derivatives like flavin mononucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide have specific roles but are not as widely used in everyday dietary supplements geared towards general health applications. Their roles are more specialized in biochemical pathways rather than serving as a primary source of vitamin supplementation.