Side Effects From Taking Too Much Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a vital nutrient that plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy body. It is an essential antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart diseases, and arthritis. Vitamin C is naturally found in many fruits and vegetables, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. However, taking too much vitamin C can have adverse side effects on your body. In this article, we will discuss the side effects of taking too much vitamin C and how to avoid them.
What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is naturally found in many fruits and vegetables. It is an essential nutrient that the body needs to function correctly. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects the body from free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can cause damage to cells and tissues.
Recommended Daily Intake of Vitamin C
The recommended daily intake of vitamin C varies depending on age, gender, and health status. According to the National Institutes of Health, the recommended daily intake of vitamin C for adults is 75-90 milligrams per day. However, some experts recommend higher doses of up to 500-1000 milligrams per day for optimal health benefits.
Side Effects of Taking Too Much Vitamin C
Taking too much vitamin C can have adverse side effects on your body. Here are some of the side effects:
Gastrointestinal Distress
Taking high doses of vitamin C can cause gastrointestinal distress such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. This is because vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is excreted through the urine. When there is an excess of vitamin C in the body, it can cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.
Kidney Stones
Taking high doses of vitamin C can increase the risk of developing kidney stones. This is because vitamin C is converted into oxalate in the body, which can accumulate in the kidneys and form stones. People who have a history of kidney stones should avoid taking high doses of vitamin C.
Interference with Medical Tests
High doses of vitamin C can interfere with medical tests such as blood glucose level tests and urine tests for glucose and ketones. This can lead to false-positive or false-negative test results, which can have serious implications for the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.
Iron Overload
Taking high doses of vitamin C can increase the absorption of iron from food and supplements. This can lead to iron overload, which can cause serious health problems such as liver damage, diabetes, and heart diseases.
How to Avoid Taking Too Much Vitamin C
To avoid the side effects of taking too much vitamin C, you should follow these guidelines:
- Stick to the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.
- Avoid taking high doses of vitamin C supplements unless prescribed by a healthcare professional.
- Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamin C.
- Consult with your healthcare professional before taking any dietary supplements.
Conclusion
Vitamin C is a vital nutrient that plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy body. However, taking too much vitamin C can have adverse side effects on your body. To avoid these side effects, it is essential to follow the recommended daily intake of vitamin C and consult with your healthcare professional before taking any dietary supplements.