Vitamin D plays an essential role in your body. In addition to supporting the absorption of calcium and phosphorus into your bones, vitamin D also helps strengthen your immune system. Your body produces it when your skin is exposed to sunlight. Too little vitamin D can lead to brittle bones and muscle weakness, while too much can also cause problems. But what exactly is that?
How much vitamin D do you need daily?
How much do you actually need every day? According to the Health Council, adults and children aged 4 years and older need 10 micrograms of vitamin D per day. A higher recommended daily amount applies to babies, young children, the elderly, people with a tanned skin color, people who rarely spend time outdoors and pregnant women. However, overdose is also possible. It is certainly important to know how to find the right balance and what happens if you consume too much vitamin D.
Too much vitamin D: is that possible?
Vitamin D overdose is usually not caused by the sun or diet, but by too many supplements. When you take too much vitamin D, your body can absorb too much calcium, which can lead to kidney stones, heart problems and bone loss. So it is important to be careful when taking supplements and seek advice from a medical professional first.
What are the symptoms of a vitamin D overdose?
What happens if you consume too much vitamin D? The symptoms of an overdose, also called hypervitaminosis D, can vary. Early signs are often subtle symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, weakness and weight loss. In severe cases, these symptoms can escalate to heart problems, kidney stones, or kidney damage. Are you worried that you are getting too much vitamin D? Please contact your doctor. It is important to find a healthy balance and to know how to avoid an overdose.
Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency
- Brain fog: difficulty thinking clearly, difficulty concentrating, and feeling confused or forgetful.
- Joint pain: in your knees, hips, shoulders and ankles, for example.
- Depression: vitamin D is very important for the formation of dopamine, also known as ‘the happiness hormone’.
- Insomnia: Without enough vitamin D, there is also a good chance that you have a melatonin deficiency. This is the substance that ensures that you sleep long and deeply.
- Poor immune system: the building material is very important in building a strong immune system.
