Upset stomach is a general term describing symptoms such as nausea, bloating and belching. It is also known as indigestion or dyspepsia. There are many causes of upset stomach, but too much vitamin D in your body from overdosing on supplements is one possible cause. Reducing your vitamin D intake may therefore cure an upset stomach. Do not take supplements unless approved by your doctor.
Side Effects
Side effects from vitamin D supplements include nausea, vomiting, poor appetite and constipation. You may also experience confusion and problems with your heart rate. You may feel thirstier than usual, have to urinate more and have a metallic taste in your mouth. Sore eyes and itchy skin are also side effects. Bone pain and muscle problems are possible as well.
Upset Stomach Vitamins
Taking too much vitamin A, vitamin C or vitamin B-3, also known as niacin, can also cause upset stomach. Drinking a lot of alcohol, high cholesterol, liver problems or lack of protein may increase your chance of experiencing side effects from vitamin A. Other symptoms of too much vitamin A include dizziness, clumsiness, headache, blurred vision and liver problems, plus possibly increase your risk of osteoporosis. Vitamin C overdosing may also lead to kidney stones and increased iron absorption. Too much niacin may make your skin red or flushed.
Interactions
An upset stomach and other side effects from vitamin D toxicity may be more likely to happen if you are taking certain medications. Vitamin D supplements cause your body to better absorb calcium. High calcium levels increase the chances of side effects from digoxin, a drug for irregular heart rhythms. Upset stomach is a common side effect of toxic levels of digoxin. Supplements may also interact with other medications. Drugs to control cholesterol, known as statins, may be less effective if you also take vitamin D supplements. Vitamin D can also interfere with calcium channel blockers for heart conditions or high blood pressure.
Safely Preventing a Deficiency
Once your vitamin D levels are back to normal, you may need a supplement to prevent a future deficiency. The exact amount of vitamin D supplements that are safe for you depends on your diet, amount of sun exposure and skin color. Your body produces vitamin D from being in the sunlight. Darker skin colors absorb less vitamin D from sun exposure. People who live in areas with low sunlight also get less vitamin D from the sun. Adults may generally take 800 IUs per day to safely maintain healthy vitamin D levels. Children may take half that amount. Speak with your doctor for the best supplement amount to take for preventing a vitamin D deficiency safely.
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