Vitamins and Overdose

Vitamins are essential nutrients for your life and health. They are classified as water soluble and fat soluble. Water-soluble nutrients include B and C vitamins. If water-soluble vitamins are taken in excess, they are not stored in the body and soon eliminated in the urine. Therefore, the risk of side effects and overdose is low. On the other hand, fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D and E accumulate in fat cells and are used by the body on demand. Therefore, the most dangerous vitamin overdose is linked with taking too many fat soluble vitamins. Always consult a health care professional before starting to take supplements.

Vitamin A

When excessive amounts of vitamin A are accumulated in the body, a condition called hypervitaminosis A occurs. Symptoms include liver and central nervous system dysfunction, decreased bone density and birth defects. Symptoms of acute intoxication from ingesting overly high amounts of vitamin A over a short period of time includes headaches, digestive problems, vision disturbances, dizziness and lack of coordination. The most common cause of vitamin A overdose is from taking high amounts in supplement form.

Vitamin E

You cannot overdose on vitamin E from foods, but using excessive amounts of vitamin E supplements might have toxic effects, possibly causing internal bleeding, increased risk of developing stroke and, according to one study, possible death.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is found in some foods, is produced in the skin when exposed to sunlight and is also available as a supplement. Possible overdose of this nutrient occurs from taking too many supplements, and symptoms include loss of appetite and weight loss, excessive urination and heart rhythm problems. It might also increase calcium blood levels and the risk of developing kidney stones.

Considerations

The best way to avoid vitamin overdose is to not take excessive amounts of these nutrients on your own. Instead, consult a qualified health care professional who can recommend the optimal dosages and who can also monitor your blood levels of these nutrients. Vitamins might also interact with some medications and herbs. Keep in mind that vitamins and other supplements cannot and should not replace any conventional drugs prescribed for a specific medical condition.