Can one take too much vitamins?

Yes, it is possible to take too many vitamins, and this can lead to a condition called hypervitaminosis.

The risk of vitamin overdose depends on the specific vitamin, because some vitamins are water-soluble and others are fat-soluble.

Vitamin C and the B vitamins (such as B6 and B12) are water soluble. The body usually excretes excess amounts of these vitamins through the urine. Although it is more difficult to overdose on water-soluble vitamins, very high intakes can still cause side effects, such as diarrhea and stomach upset with vitamin C, and nerve damage with extremely high doses of vitamin B6.

Vitamins A, D, E and K are fat soluble. These vitamins can accumulate in body fat and the liver, meaning the risk of overdose is higher.

Too much Vitamin A can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headaches, and even liver damage. Vitamin D overdose can lead to a buildup of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia), which can result in nausea, weakness, and kidney problems. Too much vitamin E can increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you take blood-thinning medications. Although Vitamin K overdose is rare, very high intakes can interfere with blood-thinning medications.

It is important to take supplements according to the recommended daily amounts and to be careful when combining multiple supplements that contain the same vitamins.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024