Hypervitaminosis, Why Supplement Excess Doesn’t Equal Drug Danger.
What is Hypervitaminosis?
Hypervitaminosis is a condition of toxic levels of one or more vitamins in the body. (1). The most common types of hypervitaminosis are due to fat-soluble vitamins, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K. Fat soluble vitamins accumulate in the fat and body tissues and can reach toxic levels. Unlike water-soluble vitamins, which are excreted in urine. (4).
Vitamin A toxicity in retinol form can cause birth defects in pregnant women when used at doses over 10,000 IUs, however in beta carotene form, Vitamin A is safe even for pregnant women.
Vitamin D toxicity can lead to too much calcium in the blood. However, most of the population today have vitamin D levels that are too low. (5) Vitamin D levels can be checked by a lab draw.
Vitamin E and K toxicity can lead to clotting and bleeding concerns. (6)(7)
Since B and C are water soluble and excreted form urine, they do not become toxic but can have side effects like flushing from Vitamin B3 (niacin) or diarrhea and abdominal cramps form too much vitamin C.
Are prescription drugs safer than vitamins and supplements since they are regulated?
When looking at data to determine if pharmaceuticals are safer than vitamins, vitamins really did not pose any health concerns vs pharmaceuticals. In 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reported that there were an estimated 107,543 drug overdose deaths in the United States. This includes deaths from both prescription and illicit drugs. (2) In comparison, the latest report for death from hypervitaminosis showed that in 2004 the reported deaths from vitamin overdoses in 2004, were only 3! Two from vitamins, D and E, and one from a multivitamin containing iron.(1) The numbers speak for themselves.
Conclusion:
Vitamins support immunity, aid in metabolism, are needed in mitochondrial energy production, and promote wound healing and bone health.
Vitamins do not pose a threat to your health. In fact, your body needs vitamins to maintain your health and energy. However fat soluble vitamins, A, D, E, and K can build up to levels that can cause adverse symptoms when taken at high doses over long periods of time. Since our soil is depleted of so many vitamins and minerals, supplementation is necessary to obtain therapeutic levels. To safely determine what levels are safe and therapeutic, please seek the care of a naturopathic physician or a certified holistic nutritionist to determine what doses are right for you.
Sources:
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypervitaminosis
2. United States drug overdose death rates and totals over time - Wikipedia
3. Hypervitaminosis A: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
4. Vitamin Toxicity: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment
5. Vitamin D deficiency soars in the U.S., study says | Scientific American
6. Vitamin E Toxicity: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment - DoveMed
7. Vitamin K Excess - Disorders of Nutrition - MSD Manual Consumer Version
