You need vitamin C for your tissues, skin, tendons, cartilage and blood vessels, among other areas of your body. Even though this vitamin is water-soluble -- meaning, your body expels the excess -- taking too much in the form of supplements can have adverse effects, including insomnia, which can, in turn, make you tired. Talk to your doctor about your vitamin C intake and let him know if you are having trouble with fatigue.
Side Effects of Too Much Vitamin C
If you take a large amount of vitamin C supplements, you may experience digestive upset in the form of nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps and indigestion. You may also experience headaches and even develop kidney stones. All of these symptoms can be distressing and may disrupt your sleeping habits or cause you to become tired throughout the day. Too much vitamin C can also lead to insomnia, and if you are deprived of sleep, this will lead to feelings of fatigue, as well.
Upper Limits and RDA
To avoid the tiredness and other side effects of taking too much vitamin C, keep your daily intake under 2,000 mg, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Keep in mind that the recommended dietary allowance, or RDA, for vitamin C is only 90 mg for men and 75 mg for women, also according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. People who eat healthy diets that include a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as strawberries and peppers, can typically meet their recommended intake without needing to consume supplements. Talk to your doctor about whether or not supplements are right for you, and be sure to discuss the proper dosage.
Other Causes of Fatigue
Your feelings of tiredness and fatigue may not be the result of your vitamin C intake. Lifestyle factors such as alcohol or caffeine consumption, excessive or insufficient physical activity, unhealthy dietary habits or lack of sleep can all make you tired. Tiredness can also be caused by psychological problems like anxiety and stress, as well as medical conditions like anemia, cancer, sleep apnea and diabetes. See a doctor if you are concerned about your fatigue.
Additional Considerations
While too much vitamin C can have adverse effects, you need to make sure that you meet the RDA, as not enough vitamin C can cause problems, as well. These include anemia, rough skin, a slow metabolism and swollen joints. If you need help designing a diet that gives you the proper amount of vitamin C, consider working with a licensed nutritionist. Always consult with your doctor before you alter your diet or supplement intake.
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