Vitamine D bijwerkingen

Vitamin D side effects

Vitamin D side effects are relatively unknown when it comes to supplement use. Despite their rarity, it's important to be aware of potential side effects when taking a supplement. But how common is an excess? And what are the most common side effects of vitamin D? This article discusses various topics and answers questions related to these issues.

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.