Vitamin D is an important nutrient for the body, helping to maintain strong bones and teeth, supporting muscle function, and boosting the immune system. However, too much vitamin D can lead to toxicity.

Not getting enough vitamin D in your diet can cause serious health issues affecting both bone and mental health. Conversely, excessive vitamin D can result in concerning side effects.

According to recommendations, taking 60,000 international units (IU) of vitamin D daily for several months can cause toxicity. For Vietnamese individuals, the recommended needs according to the Institute of Nutrition are as follows:

Excessive vitamin D can lead to vitamin D toxicity, also known as hypervitaminosis D, primarily due to high intake of supplements.

1. Excess Vitamin D Causes Loss of Appetite

One of the symptoms of vitamin D overdose is a decreased appetite. When you lose your appetite, you may not want to eat much. This can lead to fatigue and weakness.

Too much vitamin D in the body can increase calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia), which can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, and loss of appetite. In this case, testing vitamin D levels is very important.

2. Irregular Bowel Movements

Excessive vitamin D can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms. One of the key signs of vitamin D toxicity is constipation. High levels of calcium carbonate in the body can cause irregular bowel movements, exacerbating health issues.

3. Feeling Lethargic

Fatigue and lethargy are commonly experienced when hypercalcemia occurs as a result of absorbing too much vitamin D. Individuals may feel extremely low on energy, affecting daily activities.

4. Increased Cancer Risk

Consuming too much vitamin D is associated with an increased risk of cancer, heart issues, and even bone fractures.

5. Frequent Urination

Another symptom related to vitamin D overdose is frequent urination. However, this can also be a sign of various chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and kidney problems.

6. Bone Pain

Bone pain can also indicate a deficiency in vitamin D, but similar symptoms can arise when you consume too much vitamin D, increasing the risk of certain bone-related issues.

Vitamin D toxicity rarely occurs without overdosing on supplements. To avoid vitamin D toxicity, focus on naturally absorbing this important nutrient.

Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and sardines, can help you boost your vitamin D levels naturally. Egg yolks, cod liver oil, and fortified foods are also considered rich sources of vitamin D. Sunbathing in the early morning is one of the best ways to get an ideal dose of vitamin D. It is important to regulate vitamin D intake for optimal health.