Vitamin D Toxicity

Vitamin and minerals are essential to our body to carry out several functions. Vitamins are essential nutrients that can be acquired from plant as well as animal source. Vitamin A, B, C, D, E, K are the different types of vitamins required by the human body. Here we will see more on vitamin D, its uses and toxicity.

An Overview on Vitamin D
Calciferol or vitamin D is a group of fat soluble vitamins essential for proper absorption of calcium and phosphorous in bones. It is also required for enhancing the immune system and maintaining normal calcium and phosphorous levels in the body. It helps in prevention of diseases like rickets, rheumatoid arthritis and osteomalacia. This vitamin is directly obtained from sunlight, hence, it is also known as the 'sunshine vitamin'. However, milk, eggs (egg yolk), cod liver oil, etc. are the other sources of vitamin D. We all know that lack of any essential nutrients lead to deficiency disease. In order to prevent deficiency diseases, one is advised to take adequate amounts of vitamins or supplements. However, in some cases, a person taking larger amounts of vitamin supplements than prescribed can lead to toxicity or overdose which can be harmful.

Toxicity Causes
Excess intake of supplements result in toxicity. Adults require 5 mcg (200 IU) vitamin D every day which can be obtained simply by exposure to sunlight for a few minutes. However, many people consume vitamin supplements without being aware of the fact that excess of it is equally harmful. Secondly, as vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, its excess does not get washed away from the body. On the contrary, it gets stored in the body which can lead to harmful symptoms.

Toxicity Symptoms
Vitamin D overdose leads to excess absorption of calcium in the body which leads to a harmful condition known as hypercalcemia. At the same time, the following symptoms are observed:

• Muscle weakness
• Dehydration / Constipation
• Heart rhythm abnormalities
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Kidney Stone
• Weight loss
• Confusion
• Nervousness
• Irritability

Treating Toxicity of Vitamin D
If a person observes any of the above mentioned symptoms, he should consult a doctor as soon as possible. Many of these symptoms can be linked to any other health problems. Therefore, to be on a safer side, it is essential to consult a health practitioner for proper diagnosis of the condition. The treatment depends on toxicity levels. In minor cases, the person is immediately advised to stop consuming vitamin D supplements and also other foodstuffs containing calcium. Secondly, if the condition is severe, he is given medications to treat the other symptoms observed. Also, fluids and IV is given to keep the body hydrated. Vitamin D toxicity in extreme cases can be fatal, but, it is extremely rare. However, kidney diseases and kidney failure caused due to it cannot be treated.

Now that you know about the severity of vitamin D overdose or toxicity, it is necessary to keep a check on the intake of supplements. However, as a concluding note, it can be said that it is advisable to consume vitamin supplements only on the recommendation and prescription of the doctor. Take care!