Vitamin D is essential
for bone health and calcium regulation, but
more isn’t always better. Excess vitamin D
usually comes from taking too much supplementation over time, rather than from ordinary sun exposure or food. It can cause vitamin D toxicity (hypervitaminosis D), which raises calcium levels in the blood.
4 warning signs you may be taking too much
-
Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
Excess calcium can upset the digestive system and may cause persistent nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, or reduced appetite. -
Unusual thirst and frequent urination
High calcium levels can make you unusually thirsty and cause you to urinate more often. -
Weakness, fatigue, or confusion
Hypercalcemia can produce marked tiredness, muscle weakness, headaches, or confusion. -
Kidney problems
Severe or prolonged vitamin D toxicity can contribute to kidney stones or kidney injury. Flank/back pain or significant changes in urination warrant medical attention.
How much is too much?
For most adults, the tolerable upper intake level is 4,000 IU (100 micrograms) of vitamin D per day from all sources, unless a healthcare professional has prescribed a higher dose for a specific medical reason. The appropriate dose can vary depending on your vitamin D level and health circumstances.
Importantly, these symptoms don’t prove that vitamin D is the cause. Similar symptoms can result from many other conditions. If you’re taking high-dose vitamin D and develop these symptoms, speak with a healthcare professional rather than simply stopping or changing treatment on your own.
If you tell me how many IU of vitamin D you’re taking per day and for how long, I can explain whether that dose is within the usual range.
