Side Effects Of Taking Vitamin D And Calcium Together
Introduction
Vitamin D and calcium are essential nutrients that are important for strong bones and teeth. In fact, taking vitamin D and calcium together has been shown to provide numerous health benefits. However, combining these two supplements can also have side effects if taken in excess. In this article, we will discuss the side effects of taking vitamin D and calcium together and how to avoid them.
What Is Vitamin D And Calcium?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is produced naturally when the skin is exposed to sunlight. It is also found in certain foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified milk. Calcium, on the other hand, is a mineral that is essential for strong bones and teeth. It is found in dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods.
Benefits Of Taking Vitamin D And Calcium Together
Taking vitamin D and calcium together has been shown to provide numerous health benefits, including:
- Reducing the risk of osteoporosis
- Preventing bone fractures
- Boosting the immune system
- Reducing the risk of certain cancers
- Lowering blood pressure
Side Effects Of Taking Vitamin D And Calcium Together
While taking vitamin D and calcium together can provide numerous health benefits, there are also some side effects to be aware of. These side effects can occur if you take too much of either supplement, especially if you have an underlying medical condition. The most common side effects of taking vitamin D and calcium together include:
Kidney Stones
Taking too much calcium can increase the risk of kidney stones, which are small, hard deposits that form in the kidneys. This is because excess calcium can build up in the kidneys and form crystals, which can then turn into stones. Symptoms of kidney stones include severe pain in the back and side, nausea, vomiting, and blood in the urine.
Constipation
Calcium supplements can cause constipation, especially if you take them in high doses. This is because calcium can slow down the movement of food through the digestive system. Symptoms of constipation include difficulty passing stools, infrequent bowel movements, and abdominal pain.
Hypercalcemia
Hypercalcemia is a condition in which there is too much calcium in the blood. This can occur if you take too much calcium supplements or if you have an underlying medical condition such as hyperparathyroidism. Symptoms of hypercalcemia include nausea, vomiting, constipation, fatigue, and confusion.
Interference With Medications
Taking vitamin D and calcium supplements can interfere with certain medications, including antibiotics, blood pressure medications, and certain diuretics. This is because calcium can reduce the absorption of these medications, making them less effective.
How To Avoid Side Effects
To avoid the side effects of taking vitamin D and calcium together, it is important to take them in the recommended doses. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D is 600-800 IU for adults, while the recommended daily intake of calcium is 1000-1200 mg for adults. If you are unsure about how much to take, consult your doctor or a registered dietitian.
In addition, it is important to take vitamin D and calcium supplements with food to help with absorption. Avoid taking them with high-fiber foods or medications that can interfere with their absorption.
Conclusion
Vitamin D and calcium are essential nutrients that are important for strong bones and teeth. Taking them together can provide numerous health benefits, but it can also have side effects if taken in excess. To avoid these side effects, it is important to take them in the recommended doses and with food. If you experience any symptoms of side effects, consult your doctor immediately.