Side Effects Of Taking Vitamin C And Zinc
Vitamin C and zinc are two essential nutrients that are necessary for our body to function well. Both of these nutrients have numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system, promoting wound healing, and improving skin health. However, taking high doses of these nutrients can lead to several side effects. In this article, we will discuss some of the side effects of taking vitamin C and zinc.
Side Effects Of Taking High Doses Of Vitamin C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is found in many fruits and vegetables. It is an essential nutrient that our body needs to form collagen, which is important for skin, bones, and cartilage. However, taking high doses of vitamin C can lead to several side effects:
Gastrointestinal Disturbances
Taking high doses of vitamin C can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. This is because vitamin C is acidic and can irritate the lining of the stomach.
Kidney Stones
High doses of vitamin C can increase the risk of kidney stones, especially in people who are prone to developing them. This is because vitamin C is metabolized into oxalate, which can lead to the formation of kidney stones.
Iron Overload
High doses of vitamin C can increase the absorption of iron from food and supplements, which can lead to iron overload in people who are already at risk of it. Iron overload can cause damage to organs such as the liver, pancreas, and heart.
Side Effects Of Taking High Doses Of Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral that is needed for many functions in the body, including wound healing, cell growth, and immune function. However, taking too much zinc can lead to several side effects:
Gastrointestinal Disturbances
Taking high doses of zinc can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. This is because zinc can irritate the lining of the stomach.
Copper Deficiency
High doses of zinc can interfere with the absorption of copper, which can lead to copper deficiency. Copper is an essential mineral that is needed for the formation of red blood cells, and a deficiency can lead to anemia and other health problems.
Immune System Dysfunction
Taking too much zinc can lead to immune system dysfunction, as zinc is important for the proper functioning of immune cells. This can increase the risk of infections and other health problems.
Conclusion
While vitamin C and zinc are important nutrients that our body needs, taking high doses of these nutrients can lead to several side effects. It is important to follow the recommended daily intake of these nutrients and to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.