Side Effects Of Taking To Much Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in maintaining good health. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the body against free radicals and prevent oxidative stress. While vitamin C is essential for overall health, taking too much of it can lead to several side effects. In this article, we will discuss the side effects of taking too much vitamin C.
What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is found in many fruits and vegetables. It is essential for the growth, development, and repair of body tissues. Vitamin C is also important for the production of collagen, a protein that is essential for the health of your skin, bones, and joints.
Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the body against free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Side Effects of Taking Too Much Vitamin C
While vitamin C is essential for overall health, taking too much of it can lead to several side effects. Here are some of the most common side effects of taking too much vitamin C:
1. Digestive Issues
One of the most common side effects of taking too much vitamin C is digestive issues. High doses of vitamin C can cause diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps. These symptoms usually occur when you take more than 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C per day.
2. Kidney Stones
Another side effect of taking too much vitamin C is the formation of kidney stones. High doses of vitamin C can increase the amount of oxalate in your urine, which can lead to the formation of kidney stones. This is especially true for people who have a history of kidney stones or who are at risk of developing them.
3. Iron Overload
High doses of vitamin C can also lead to iron overload in the body. Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron from the foods you eat. However, taking too much vitamin C can cause your body to absorb too much iron, which can lead to iron overload. This can be especially dangerous for people who have a genetic predisposition to iron overload.
4. Headaches
Some people may experience headaches when they take high doses of vitamin C. This is usually a temporary side effect that goes away once you stop taking the vitamin.
5. Insomnia
Some people may experience insomnia when they take high doses of vitamin C. This is because vitamin C is a stimulant that can increase energy levels and make it difficult to fall asleep.
How Much Vitamin C Should You Take?
The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for vitamin C is 75-90 milligrams for adults. However, some people may need more vitamin C depending on their health status and lifestyle. It is generally safe to take up to 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C per day. However, taking more than 2,000 milligrams per day can lead to side effects.
The Bottom Line
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in maintaining good health. While it is generally safe to take up to 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C per day, taking too much can lead to several side effects. If you are considering taking vitamin C supplements, it is important to talk to your doctor first to determine the appropriate dose for your individual needs.