Vitamin D side effects
When taking a vitamin D supplement, it is crucial not to exceed the recommended daily amount. Exceeding the recommended daily amount increases the risk of high blood vitamin D levels. However, a vitamin D surplus and its potential side effects are rare. This is in contrast to a vitamin D deficiency , which affects 60% of the Dutch population.
The reason it's recommended not to exceed the recommended daily amount is because vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin . This means that excess vitamin D is stored in the liver and kidneys. This is in contrast to water-soluble vitamins, which are excreted in urine when there is an excess. Vitamin C is an example of this.
Side effects of too much vitamin D
Although vitamin D overdose is rare in the Dutch population, side effects cannot be completely ruled out. This is because the body stores vitamin D in the liver and kidneys.
In very rare cases, it can occur that there is too much vitamin D in the blood, which can cause side effects. An excess of the nutrient increases calcium levels, which can have several consequences for the body:
- Itch
- Skin rash
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- A dry mouth
- Muscle pain
- Bone pain
- Heart palpitations
Besides the aforementioned rare side effects of vitamin D, it is also possible to be hypersensitive to the nutrient. This can be considered a natural allergy of the body. In this case, it is a genetic disorder called hypercalcemia or renal calcification. However, this disorder is very rare. If you have any doubts about the side effects or a possible hypersensitivity, it is always advisable to contact your doctor or pharmacist.