Pharmacist Issues Warning to Anyone Who Takes Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining healthy bones, supporting muscles, and helping the body absorb calcium. However, health professionals warn that taking very high doses of vitamin D supplements without medical guidance can be harmful.
The concern is not normal vitamin D intake, but excessive supplementation. Too much vitamin D can cause calcium levels in the blood to rise, which may lead to problems.
Possible signs of too much vitamin D
- Nausea or vomiting
- Poor appetite
- Constipation
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Weakness or fatigue
- Confusion
- Kidney problems, including kidney stones
Who should be cautious?
Talk with a healthcare professional before taking high-dose vitamin D if you:
- Have kidney problems
- Take calcium supplements
- Take prescription-strength vitamin D
- Have medical conditions that affect calcium levels
The key message
Vitamin D can be beneficial when your body needs it, but more is not always better. Use the dose recommended by a healthcare professional or follow established daily intake guidelines rather than taking large amounts on your own.
If you are unsure whether you need a vitamin D supplement, a healthcare provider can help determine the right approach, sometimes with a blood test.