Vitamins Can Be Dangerous

    Vitamin deficiency is actually uncommon in Western countries, but many people consume over-the-counter vitamins and minerals with the hope of improving their health and preventing disease. Their benefits are often highlighted, but their harmful effects are usually receive little attention. 

    High doses of some vitamins, especially when taken regularly, can be toxic, especially fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) that accumulate in the body. Excessive intake of vitamins like A, D, B6, and minerals like iron can cause severe damage including nerve and liver damage, kidney stones and increased cancer or fracture risks. 

    These can be dangerous because they build up in fat reserves, making them easy to overdose on compared to water-soluble vitamins. Excessive intake of the following can be especially dangerous: 

 

Vtamin A can cause headaches, liver damage, weaker bones and birth defects. 

 

Vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood) leading to kidney stones, heart problems, confusion and even death. 

 

Vitamin B6 can lead to severe sensory peripheral neuropathies (nerve damage). 

 

Vitamin E may increase the risk of prostate cancer in men. 

 

Beta-carotene supplements may increase the risk of lung cancer and death, particularly in smokers. 

 

Iron is dangerous to take without deficiency; excess causes nausea, vomiting, liver damage and is potentially fatal toxicity.