50 000 Units Of Vitamin D Per Week Side Effects
Introduction
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that our body requires for various functions such as maintaining strong bones and teeth, regulating immune system, and promoting calcium absorption. However, some people suffer from vitamin D deficiency due to various reasons such as inadequate dietary intake, lack of sunlight exposure, and medical conditions that affect vitamin D metabolism. In such cases, doctors often prescribe high doses of vitamin D supplements to correct the deficiency. One such dosage is 50,000 units per week. But, is it safe? Let's find out.
What Are 50,000 Units Of Vitamin D Per Week?
Vitamin D supplements are available in different doses such as 1000, 2000, and 5000 units. However, in some cases, doctors may prescribe a higher dose of 50,000 units per week to treat severe vitamin D deficiency. This dose is also known as ergocalciferol or vitamin D2. It is a synthetic form of vitamin D that is derived from plant sources such as fungi and yeast. It is available in the form of capsules or tablets and should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
What Are The Side Effects Of 50,000 Units Of Vitamin D Per Week?
While vitamin D is essential for our body, too much of it can be harmful. High doses of vitamin D supplements can cause various side effects such as:
- Hypercalcemia: It is a condition in which the calcium levels in the blood become too high. This can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, and kidney stones.
- Weakness: High doses of vitamin D can cause muscle weakness, which can affect your ability to perform daily activities.
- Headaches: Some people may experience headaches after taking high doses of vitamin D supplements.
- Dizziness: High doses of vitamin D can cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Nausea and vomiting: Some people may experience nausea and vomiting after taking high doses of vitamin D supplements.
- Weight loss: High doses of vitamin D can cause weight loss in some people.
- Irregular heartbeat: In rare cases, high doses of vitamin D can cause an irregular heartbeat or heart palpitations.
Who Should Avoid High Doses Of Vitamin D Supplements?
High doses of vitamin D supplements should be avoided by:
- People with kidney disease: People with kidney disease have a reduced ability to excrete excess calcium from the body. Taking high doses of vitamin D supplements can further increase the calcium levels in the blood, which can be harmful.
- People with hyperparathyroidism: Hyperparathyroidism is a condition in which the parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone, which can lead to high calcium levels in the blood. Taking high doses of vitamin D supplements can worsen this condition.
- People with sarcoidosis: Sarcoidosis is a condition in which small patches of inflamed cells develop in different parts of the body, including the lungs and lymph nodes. Taking high doses of vitamin D supplements can increase the risk of developing high calcium levels in the blood, which can be harmful.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women: High doses of vitamin D supplements can be harmful to pregnant and breastfeeding women and their babies. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Conclusion
While vitamin D is essential for our body, high doses of vitamin D supplements can be harmful. It is important to only take high doses of vitamin D supplements under the supervision of a healthcare professional. People with certain medical conditions should avoid high doses of vitamin D supplements. It is always better to maintain adequate levels of vitamin D through a healthy diet and safe sunlight exposure.