Vitamin D plays a crucial role in building and maintaining healthy bones. Vitamin D is also essential for bones and teeth, brain health, and regulation of inflammation. Although the body can create vitamin D from sunlight, some people develop deficiencies, and to treat this deficiency, doctors often prescribe vitamin D supplements. But how much vitamin D is too much?
Earlier this year, a man in Surrey, United Kingdom (UK) died because his vitamin D levels were too high. He was reportedly taking vitamin D supplements nine months before his death. The man suffered from hypercalcemia, or high amounts of calcium, which is caused by high levels of vitamin D in the body.
Ideally, the amount of vitamin D in a human body should be 10 micrograms per day. Dr Tarun Sahni, Senior Consultant Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, explains that excessive intake of vitamin D can lead to a condition known as vitamin D toxicity.
The center can claim 12% GST for health insurance; lowest rate seen to extend coverage
I Lived My Whole Life Afraid I Might Bleed To Death: The Trials and Tribulations of Living with Haemophilia
Raghav Chadha undergoes vitrectomy: What is this procedure and why is it done?
Obese women have a higher risk of developing heart disease, PGI study reveals
“Toxicity usually occurs when an individual ingests excessive amounts of vitamin D supplements or inadvertently consumes high doses of vitamin D. When vitamin D levels in the body are excessively high, it can lead to hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood) “This alteration can have systemic effects, such as impaired kidney function, gastrointestinal symptoms, and cardiovascular complications. In severe cases, hypercalcemia can lead to life-threatening complications,” said Dr. Sahni. Financial Express.com.
It is important to note that vitamin D toxicity is a life-threatening condition, and people should consult with their health care provider before starting or changing vitamin D supplementation, especially in cases of medical conditions underlying, he warned.
“Vitamin D can stay in the body for a long time”
Dr Surender Kumar, Senior Consultant Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, revealed that vitamin D is an oil-soluble vitamin, hence it remains in the body for a long period.
“If excess vitamin D is taken or injected into the body over a long period of time, the body reabsorbs more vitamin D 25, which is converted into an active form of vitamin D that absorbs excess calcium from the This excess calcium in the blood has to be thrown away, which is the job of the kidney. Therefore, the kidney has to filter out excess calcium. Since the kidneys cannot do this, the calcium is deposited in various parts of the body causing hypercalcemia which also leads to calcium deposits in the arteries and other parts of the body.This leads to acute pancreatitis.Calcium deposits in the arteries lead to ischemic diseases and deposits of calcium in other parts, such as ligaments, disrupts the normal functioning of the body,” said Dr. Kumar. Financial Express.com.
He also emphasized that a very high level of calcium in the body can cause disturbances in the functions of the brain and the patient can suffer from severe hyperventilation.
“High levels of vitamin D in the body can also be fatal,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dr. Dinesh Khullar, Chairman, Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplant Medicine, Max Superspecialty Hospital Saket, New Delhi, warned that excessive consumption of vitamin D3 can cause hypervitaminosis D, which can lead to kidney failure.
“Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption, but excessive levels can cause hypercalcemia. This can damage the kidneys by causing acute kidney injury (AKI), impairing their ability to filter waste products and regulate electrolytes “said Dr. Khullar at Financial Express.com.
What are the symptoms of vitamin D toxicity?
Symptoms of vitamin D toxicity include:
- constipation,
- anorexia,
- dehydration,
- fatigue,
- and vomiting
“Therefore, it is essential to follow recommended daily amounts and consult health professionals before taking high-dose vitamin D supplements to prevent adverse effects on kidney function,” said Dr. Khullar.
Regular monitoring of vitamin D levels is also prudent for those taking supplements, he stressed.
“Very high blood calcium levels that cause kidney damage need prompt attention and treatment that includes discontinuing supplements, adequate hydration, and in some cases may require medication to lower the levels and, rarely, even dialysis. Because the vitamin is fat-soluble, it may have a prolonged effect that requires observation for several weeks even after the supplement is stopped,” he added.
#Vitamin #Supplements #Kill #Heres #doctors #Healthcare #News
Image Source : www.financialexpress.com