Because it is a fat-soluble vitamin stored in your body's fat tissue, vitamin D levels can get too high, causing potentially serious effects. Although you get vitamin D both from exposure to the sun and from the foods you eat, toxicity generally results from taking too high a dose of a vitamin D supplement, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. The established upper limit for vitamin D intake is 4,000 IU for people older than 9.
Calcium Levels
When too much vitamin D builds up in your body, your intestines will begin to absorb too much calcium, which then begins to circulate in your bloodstream. When blood calcium levels are too high, you may develop calcium deposits throughout your body, such as in your lungs and heart. These deposits can then affect how these organs function, MedlinePlus reports.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Too much vitamin D can also cause bothersome gastrointestinal symptoms. Some people develop nausea and vomiting as a result of excessive vitamin D intake, the Office of Dietary Supplements reports. Some people also notice a decrease in appetite, which may result in weight loss. Constipation can also develop because of high vitamin D levels in the body.
Heart Effects
Taken in high doses, vitamin D can start to affect your heartbeat and heart rhythm. For this reason, people who have heart disease should avoid taking vitamin D supplements unless under the care of a doctor who can monitor your intake and potential side effects.
Pain
Another possible side effect of excess vitamin D intake is pain. Both bone pain and muscle pain and tenderness have been linked to high vitamin D levels. Problems with muscle weakness can also develop, MedlinePlus reports.
Altered Mental State
In some cases, high levels of vitamin D can affect your mental state. People have become disoriented and suffered from mental confusion as a result of high vitamin D levels, the Office of Dietary Supplements notes.
Kidney Problems
When you body stores too much vitamin D, it may begin to affect your kidneys. In some cases, kidneys can suffer irreversible damage as a result, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Kidney stones also are possible, because of calcium deposits left in the body.
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