Are Mega-doses Of Vitamins Safe

Are Mega-Doses Of Vitamins Safe?

Summary: In today's health-conscious society, much attention has been paid to vitamin supplementation and the role it plays in total body health. In addition to promoting optimum wellness, vitamin supplements are taken for reasons such as protecting the heart, reducing the risk of cancer, boosting the immune system, relieving the symptoms of PMS, alleviating depression and anxiety, improving the memory, and even weight loss.

There have been some publicized theories that advocate t...

vitamins, vitamin supplements, health supplements, multi-vitamins

Article Body: In today's health-conscious society, much attention has been paid to vitamin supplementation and the role it plays in total body health. In addition to promoting optimum wellness, vitamin supplements are taken for reasons such as protecting the heart, reducing the risk of cancer, boosting the immune system, relieving the symptoms of PMS, alleviating depression and anxiety, improving the memory, and even weight loss.

There have been some publicized theories that advocate the use of extremely high doses, or mega-doses, of certain vitamins. Care should be taken when considering this kind of supplementation. While some vitamins are safe in large doses, others can be harmful. Here are the most commonly used vitamins and the safest maximum doses for each:

Vitamin A - Vitamin A is a fat-soluble compound that is crucial for healthy vision, cell growth, and immune system function. Vitamin A should not be taken in excess of , IU which is twice the daily recommended allowance for adults.

Vitamin B - Vitamin B is a water-soluble vitamin that is required for protein metabolism, the delivery of oxygen to cells, and the regulation of blood glucose. Excessive Vitamin B can cause debilitating and dangerous nerve damage. Do not exceed mg of Vitamin B per day.

Vitamin B - Vitamin B is essential to healthy red blood cells and nerve cells in the body. Vitamin B also plays a vital role in the creation of human DNA. Although this compound is well-tolerated and has a low level of toxicity, it is recommended that you do not exceed , mcg per day.

Folic Acid - Folic acid contributes to the development of DNA, and is also needed for the metabolism of important amino acids. It is especially crucial for pregnant women. Folic acid has a low toxicity level, however the recommended maximum dose for adults is , mcg.

Vitamin C - Vitamin C is necessary for the production of collagen, growth and repair of the body's tissues, and a healthy immune system. However, too much Vitamin C can cause harmful oxidation in the body. No more than mg per day should be consumed.

Vitamin D - Vitamin D is essential for normal levels of phosphorus and calcium in the blood. Vitamin D is an important contributor to strong bones and teeth. Excessive Vitamin D intake (more than , IU) can lead to bone pain, nausea, vomiting, and even kidney stones.

Vitamin E - Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect the body against free radicals. However taking more than , mg can cause heart problems and excessive bleeding.

Talk to your doctor to learn more about the safe dosage levels of vitamin compounds. Its not always a good idea to buy into the latest health fads, or to believe the sales copy you read on the product bottle.