Side Effects Of Too Much Vitamin B Supplements
Introduction
Vitamin B is a group of essential nutrients that play an important role in maintaining good health. They are water-soluble, which means that excess amounts are eliminated from the body through urine. However, taking high doses of vitamin B supplements can lead to side effects that can be harmful to your health.
What are the types of vitamin B supplements?
There are eight types of vitamin B, which are:
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
- Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
- Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
- Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)
- Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
What are the side effects of too much vitamin B supplements?
Taking too much vitamin B supplements can lead to the following side effects:
1. Nausea and Vomiting
High doses of vitamin B6 can cause nausea and vomiting. This is because the body is unable to absorb excess amounts of vitamin B6, which leads to its accumulation in the bloodstream.
2. Skin Rash
Excess amounts of vitamin B3 can cause skin rash, itching, and flushing. This is because vitamin B3 causes the blood vessels to dilate, which leads to increased blood flow to the skin.
3. Headaches
Taking high doses of vitamin B2 can cause headaches. This is because vitamin B2 is involved in the metabolism of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit signals in the brain.
4. Nerve Damage
Excess amounts of vitamin B6 can cause nerve damage, which can result in numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. This is because vitamin B6 is involved in the synthesis of nerve cells.
5. Increased Risk of Cancer
Taking too much vitamin B9 (folic acid) can increase the risk of cancer. This is because folic acid is involved in the synthesis of DNA, which is the genetic material of cells.
Conclusion
Vitamin B supplements are important for maintaining good health, but taking too much can lead to harmful side effects. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare provider before taking any vitamin B supplements.