Vitamin D performs many important functions in our body. It is very important for the health of bones and teeth. Besides, it also helps a lot in increasing our immunity. Apart from sunlight, some food items cure Vitamin D deficiency. However, its overdose can prove fatal. Let us know the side effects of Vitamin D overdose
Our body needs various nutrients to function properly. All the nutrients present in the body play an important role in our proper development and making us healthy. Vitamin D (Vitamin D overdose) is one of these nutrients, which is essential for the health of our bones, teeth and muscles. In such a situation, it is very important to fulfill it in the body, but it is said that excess of anything is harmful for health. This saying also holds true with Vitamin D.
Just as its deficiency in the body is harmful, similarly its excessive quantity can also prove fatal for you. Recently, 89-year-old David Michener died in the UK due to high levels of Vitamin D. He was taking Vitamin D supplements for the last nine months. In such a situation, today in this article we will tell you about some side effects of having excess Vitamin D in the body.
Why is Vitamin D important?
Vitamin D plays an important role in improving overall health by regulating calcium and phosphorus absorption, improving bone health, and strengthening immunity. It also helps build bones and teeth, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and helps muscle function. Additionally, vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases, including heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and some cancers.
Serious consequences of vitamin D overdose
The best source of Vitamin D is sunlight. Besides, it can also be supplied in the body through some food items like fatty fish and fortified foods. Apart from this, many people also overcome its deficiency in the body with the help of supplements. However, when one consumes these supplements in large amounts, it can lead to vitamin D toxicity or hypervitaminosis. Vitamin D toxicity usually occurs when vitamin D is consumed in excess.
How to Identify Vitamin D Toxicity
The severity of the illness can affect the symptoms of vitamin D intoxication. Early on, symptoms could include nausea, vomiting, anorexia, constipation, weakness, and weight loss. In more serious situations, too much vitamin D can result in hypercalcemia, or elevated blood calcium levels. Confusion, disorientation, increased thirst, frequent urination, and renal damage are some of the symptoms of hypercalcemia.
How to prevent vitamin D toxicity?
When it comes to protecting against vitamin D toxicity, prevention is key. To avoid this, Vitamin D supplements should be taken in sufficient quantity. The recommended amount of vitamin D for most adults ranges from 600 to 800 IU per day. Apart from this, consumption of fortified foods and cod liver oil should also be done with caution, because excessive consumption can lead to excess of Vitamin D.
Rich source of Vitamin D
Vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and strong immunity, can be obtained from various sources. Sunlight is its natural source. Additionally, some food items are rich in vitamin D, including fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel, as well as fortified dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheese.
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