The Negative Effects of Too Much Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a nutrient that is required for the body to function properly. In the United States, 40% of adults do not have adequate levels of Vitamin D in their bodies.

Vitamin D is required for the adaptive immune system as well as the innate immune system to function properly. It is also necessary for muscle growth and development, as well as skeletal system maintenance. Lack of Vitamin D in the body can result in a weak body that is prone to diseases, brittle bones, and other negative effects. Most people rely on supplements to compensate for vitamin deficiencies and insufficiencies.

Role of supplements

Vitamin D supplements have become extremely popular and are completely safe to take. The chances of supplements causing toxicity in the body are extremely slim. People with certain medical conditions, on the other hand, are more susceptible to Vitamin D toxicity. Granulomatous disorders, deregulated vitamin D metabolism, congenital disorders, and some lymphomas make the body more vulnerable to vitamin toxicity. Toxicity can also be caused by prescription errors, accidental overdose, and the misuse of a high-dose supplement.

But how does one know if they have a toxic condition? We’ve compiled a list of the symptoms and side effects of Vitamin D toxicity.

What do elevated levels of vitamin D mean?

Vitamin D levels in the body are thought to be optimal at 30-60 ng/mL. Toxic levels must be greater than 100ng/mL, and even after consuming large amounts of supplements, the chances of toxicity remain nil. It is most likely caused by incorrect supplement dosing or prescription errors. Keeping the daily intake below 10,000 IU per day would eliminate the possibility of toxicity. Regardless of the information you find, you should always consult a physician before taking supplements to ensure that your prescription is in sync with your bodily conditions and existing ailments.

Elevated blood calcium levels

Because Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium from food, high levels of Vitamin D in the body would imply high levels of Calcium. Calcium levels in the body should be between 8.5 and 10.8 mg/dL. Symptoms of high calcium levels include digestive distress such as nausea, constipation, and stomach ache. Dizziness, hallucinations, excessive urination, loss of appetite, kidney stones, high blood pressure, dehydration, and heart abnormalities are some of the other symptoms. Hypercalcemia can be fatal and should be treated as soon as possible.

Altered mental status

Because hypercalcemia is a direct result of high vitamin D levels, it can cause an altered mental state characterized by confusion, psychosis, and depression. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor right away.

Kidney complications

Toxic levels of vitamin D in the body can cause kidney damage or failure. Because high levels of Vitamin D cause calcium levels to rise, which causes water loss due to excessive urination and kidney calcification. Kidney blood vessel constriction, which can result in decreased kidney function.

Gastrointestinal symptoms