Where Do You Get Vitamin G From? The Surprising Truth

December 17, 2025 •

4 min read

The term 'Vitamin G' can be confusing, as it actually has multiple meanings, referring to both a forgotten name for an essential nutrient and a modern wellness concept. The most critical distinction is between the actual chemical compound, a B vitamin, and the metaphorical use of the term for the psychological benefits of nature.

Quick Summary

This article explores the dual identity of 'Vitamin G', distinguishing the essential nutrient Riboflavin from the metaphorical wellness benefits derived from exposure to natural green spaces.

Key Points

Dual Meaning: "Vitamin G" can refer to the nutrient Riboflavin or metaphorically to the psychological benefits of green space exposure.
Riboflavin Sources: Excellent food sources of the actual nutrient Riboflavin include milk, eggs, lean meats, organ meats, and fortified grains.
Nature's Benefits: Exposure to nature, or 'Green Vitamin G,' can reduce stress, lower cortisol levels, and boost mental energy.
Simple Access: A 20-minute walk in a park or spending time gardening can provide a meaningful dose of 'Green' Vitamin G.
Food Preparation Matters: Riboflavin is sensitive to light and can be lost during boiling, so proper storage and cooking methods are important to preserve it.
Distinguish Concepts: It's important not to confuse the essential nutrient Riboflavin with the metaphorical uses of the term for gratitude or grounding.

The question, "Where do you get vitamin G from?" has no single answer because the term has two distinct meanings. Historically, it was another name for the B vitamin riboflavin, which is obtained through food. More recently, the name has been used metaphorically to describe the health-boosting effects of connecting with nature, or "green space". Understanding which version is being discussed is crucial for seeking the correct benefits, whether nutritional or psychological.

Vitamin G as Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)

Riboflavin, also known as Vitamin B2, is a crucial water-soluble B vitamin necessary for the body's energy production. It is vital for cellular function and the metabolism of fats, drugs, and steroids. Since the body stores only small amounts, regular dietary intake is essential. Riboflavin is sensitive to light and can be lost during boiling, affecting its availability in food. While deficiency is rare in developed countries due to fortified foods, certain diets or health conditions can increase risk.

Food Sources of Riboflavin

Riboflavin is found in many foods, including dairy products, eggs, lean meats, and organ meats like liver and kidneys. Fish such as salmon are also good sources, as are fortified breakfast cereals and breads. Nuts like almonds, and green leafy vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and mushrooms also contribute to riboflavin intake.

Vitamin G as Green Space and Nature

Beyond nutrition, "Vitamin G" is a modern term for the restorative benefits of spending time in nature. This metaphorical "G" stands for "green" and highlights the importance of natural environments for a healthy life. Research indicates that time in green spaces positively impacts both mental and physical health. Exposure to nature aids in attention restoration and reduces stress by lowering cortisol and heart rate. While simply viewing nature can help, actively spending time outdoors is most beneficial.

How to Get Your Dose of 'Green' Vitamin G

Incorporating nature into your routine can be simple:

A 20-minute park walk can reduce stress.
Gardening provides a direct connection to greenery.
Choosing commutes through natural areas increases exposure.
Placing your desk near a window with a view or adding plants can help.
Practicing 'Forest Bathing' involves mindful immersion in a forest.

Other Metaphorical Interpretations

The term "Vitamin G" has also been used for "Gratitude," recognized for its positive effects on mental and physical health. Another interpretation is "Grounding" or "Earthing," the practice of connecting directly with the earth's surface. These are distinct from the essential nutrient Riboflavin.

Nutritional vs. Metaphorical Vitamin G


Feature	Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)	Green Space ('Green' Vitamin G)
Classification	Essential nutrient (B vitamin)	Wellness concept/Metaphor
Source	Foods like dairy, meat, eggs, and fortified grains	Exposure to nature; parks, forests, gardens
Benefits	Energy metabolism, cellular function, red blood cell formation	Stress reduction, improved mood, restored mental energy
Deficiency	Causes symptoms like skin disorders, sore throat, and anemia	Linked to mental fatigue and higher stress levels
Intake Method	Oral consumption through diet or supplements	Immersing oneself in a natural environment

Conclusion

To answer where you get vitamin G from, consider the context. If referring to the nutrient, Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) is found in foods like dairy, eggs, meat, and fortified cereals. If in a wellness context, it signifies the benefits of exposure to green spaces and nature. Both are valuable for well-being, highlighting the importance of both a healthy diet and connecting with nature.

What is Vitamin G (Riboflavin)?

Riboflavin is a water-soluble B vitamin, essential for converting food into energy and supporting cellular function. It is important for healthy skin and eyes and must be consumed regularly.

What are the symptoms of Riboflavin deficiency?

Riboflavin deficiency can manifest as skin disorders, a sore throat, cracked lips, and red, itchy eyes. Severe cases may lead to anemia or neurological issues.

Is 'Green Space' a real vitamin?

No, "green space" is a metaphorical term for the health benefits of nature exposure, not a nutritional vitamin.

How much nature exposure is needed for 'Green' Vitamin G?

Even a short duration, such as a 20-minute walk in a park, can positively impact mood and stress.

Can I get Riboflavin from sunlight like Vitamin D?

Riboflavin is obtained from food, not sunlight, and is actually destroyed by light.

Is 'Earthing' the same as getting 'Green' Vitamin G?

'Earthing' involves direct contact with the earth, while 'green space' is a broader term for nature's restorative effects.

Are there supplements for Vitamin G?

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) supplements are available for nutritional needs. For 'green space' benefits, the best approach is spending time outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

The nutritional 'Vitamin G' is the essential B vitamin, Riboflavin, found in foods like dairy and meat. The metaphorical 'Vitamin G' refers to the benefits gained from exposure to green space and nature, such as reduced stress and improved mood.

Some of the best food sources for Riboflavin include beef liver, milk, yogurt, fortified cereals, eggs, mushrooms, and lean meats.

Exposure to nature can lower blood pressure, decrease stress hormones like cortisol, and restore mental energy. It can also enhance mood, concentration, and reduce feelings of anger.

Yes, Riboflavin is water-soluble, which means it can leach into cooking water and be lost, especially during boiling. It is also sensitive to light, so storing foods properly is important.

'Earthing,' or 'Grounding,' is a practice involving walking barefoot on the earth to absorb its electrons. It's a metaphorical form of 'Vitamin G,' but distinct from the broader concept of green space exposure.

For most healthy individuals in developed countries, a varied and balanced diet that includes dairy, meat, and fortified grains is sufficient to meet the body's Riboflavin requirements.

Yes, even city dwellers can get a dose of "Vitamin G" by visiting local parks, walking through tree-lined streets, or adding houseplants to their homes or office.