An Excess Of This Vitamin May Cause Irreversible Nerve Damage
Vitamins are essential for the proper functioning of our body. They help in the growth and development of our body, improve our immune system, and keep us healthy. However, an excess of some vitamins can be harmful and cause serious health problems. One such vitamin is Vitamin D.
What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for bone health, as it helps in the absorption of calcium in our body. It also plays a vital role in the functioning of the immune system and helps in reducing inflammation.
Our body can produce Vitamin D when our skin is exposed to sunlight. It can also be obtained from food sources such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products.
How Much Vitamin D Do We Need?
The recommended daily intake of Vitamin D varies depending on age, gender, and other factors. For adults, the recommended daily intake is 600-800 IU (International Units) per day. However, some people may require higher doses of Vitamin D, such as those who are deficient in Vitamin D or have certain medical conditions.
What Happens When We Take Too Much Vitamin D?
While Vitamin D is essential for our body, taking too much of it can be harmful. When we consume too much Vitamin D, it can lead to a condition called Vitamin D toxicity, also known as hypervitaminosis D.
Vitamin D toxicity can cause several health problems, such as:
- Irreversible kidney damage
- Irreversible nerve damage
- High levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia)
- Weakness and fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
Who is at Risk of Vitamin D Toxicity?
While anyone can develop Vitamin D toxicity, certain groups of people are at a higher risk. These include:
- People who take high doses of Vitamin D supplements without medical supervision
- People with certain medical conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism
- People who consume large amounts of Vitamin D-fortified foods
Conclusion
Vitamin D is an essential vitamin that plays a vital role in the functioning of our body. However, taking too much of it can be harmful and cause serious health problems, such as irreversible nerve damage. It is essential to follow the recommended daily intake of Vitamin D and avoid taking high doses of Vitamin D supplements without medical supervision.