The problem, however, arises when you take too much. The recommended dose for children one year of age and older and adults is 10 micrograms (mcg) per day. However, infants up to one year of age need 8.5 to 10 micrograms of vitamin D per day.
Dr. Bing is concerned: “Taking too much vitamin D can lead to calcium buildup in the blood, which can affect the brain and cause symptoms such as confusion, fatigue, depression, and sometimes even psychosis.”
"While vitamins and minerals are important for our bodies to function properly, moderation is key, as with almost everything else in life. More is not always better."
According to the Mayo Clinic, a buildup of calcium in the blood is called hypercalcemia and has some pretty unpleasant symptoms. Hypercalcemia can lead to stomach upset and vomiting, weakness and frequent urination, as well as bone pain and kidney problems like kidney stones.
Vitamin A
The second supplement to look out for is vitamin A, commonly known as retinol. Vitamin A supports the normal function of the immune system, improves vision in low light, and maintains healthy skin and mucous membranes in certain parts of the body, such as the nose.
The NHS emphasises that the total vitamin A content of food is usually expressed in micrograms (µg) of retinol equivalents (RE). Adults aged 19 to 64 are advised to have a daily vitamin A requirement of 700 µg for men and 600 µg for women.
Dr. Bing said, “Vitamin A is fat-soluble, which means it is stored in the liver and can accumulate over time.”
“Excess of these substances can lead to a condition called pseudotumor cerebri, which is an increase in pressure in the brain that resembles a brain tumor, causing headaches, blurred vision, and even permanent vision loss.”
