Taking vitamins and supplements can be beneficial for your health, but it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with taking too much. Consuming more than the recommended amount of vitamins and supplements can be costly and may also increase the risk of side effects. For instance, an excessive intake of vitamin A can lead to headaches, liver damage, weakened bones, and birth defects. Too much iron can cause nausea, vomiting, and damage to the liver and other organs.
An overconsumption of vitamin C or zinc can result in nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Selenium in excess can cause hair loss, gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, and mild nerve damage. The first sign that you've taken too many vitamins or supplements is usually gastrointestinal. You may experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. This could mean that you've taken a vitamin on an empty stomach that you can tolerate better with food, or that you're taking more supplements than your body should. To be on the safe side, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting a new vitamin or supplement regimen.
Vitamin K may reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants, while vitamin E may increase their potency, increasing the risk of bleeding. He says that manufacturers have changed their approach from what they extract from food (such as fat, sugar or salt) to what they add, whether it's vitamin D, probiotics or omega-3 fats, whatever nutrient is in vogue. In a 10-year study, researchers analyzed surveillance data from 63 hospital emergency departments to estimate the annual number of emergency department visits associated with the adverse effects of dietary supplements. If you take vitamins, supplements, or herbal products, always read the safety labels that come with the package. However, there is no evidence that taking large doses of any vitamin can stop or reverse the effects of aging. Vitamin and mineral supplements can also interfere with prescription medications and medical treatments.
In some cases, the FDA has identified supplements that contain prescription drugs and other active ingredients that are not listed on the label, increasing the risk of side effects and additional reactions. Some complementary medications, such as vitamin and mineral supplements, can interact with prescription drugs and medical treatments. Taking megadoses of certain vitamins is commonly believed to act as a medication to cure or prevent certain ailments. In addition, dietary supplement packages are not required to include possible side effects, nor are there any rules on the maximum size of pills (an obvious risk for older people).Fresh fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals, but manufacturers also add them to everyday foods such as breakfast cereals and beverages. Feeling under pressure doesn't automatically lead to a vitamin deficiency; therefore taking a vitamin supplement won't necessarily make feelings of stress go away.
