Rojina Shams Nateri, a pharmacist at Roseway Labs, has alerted vitamin users to the possibility that their supplement routine may be doing more harm than good, potentially affecting their health significantly.
Vitamin users have been issued a warning (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
Many individuals take dietary supplements, believing they can enhance their health and improve sleep quality. However, if you are a regular vitamin user, it is essential to pay attention; you may inadvertently be making significant errors.
Everywhere we look, advice abounds on taking various supplements to improve the condition of our hair, skin, and bones. While these can indeed support health in various ways, there are crucial factors to consider when using them. Rojina Shams Nateri from Roseway Labs has raised a red flag, indicating that supplements can sometimes cause more harm than good.
She recently provided some expert advice on what users should be aware of. Additionally, a doctor has previously mentioned that some supplements yield minimal benefits.
“One of the most frequent mistakes I encounter is the unnecessary stacking of winter supplements that contain identical ingredients,” said Rojina. “For example, if you take a multivitamin, an immune formula, and additional zinc or vitamin C, you may inadvertently triple your intake of those ingredients.”
Numerous products include zinc, vitamin C, and B vitamins. When consumed together, these can exceed the recommended nutrient reference value (NRV), leading many to unknowingly overdose on vitamins they believe are harmless.
A common misconception is that high doses are safe. “People often assume that since vitamins are available over the counter, they are risk-free. This is a misconception,” Rojina clarified.
Exceeding 9.5 mg of zinc daily for men and 7 mg for women can weaken immunity in the long run by interfering with copper absorption. Vitamin D levels above 100 micrograms (4,000 IU) can lead to dangerous calcium levels.
Excessive vitamin A can accumulate in the body; doses exceeding 1.5 mg (1,500 mcg) can harm the liver, and pregnant women should steer clear of high doses altogether. Even vitamin C has its limits.
Rojina added, “The UK’s recommended daily intake is 40 mg, and absorption efficiency diminishes at higher doses. Once intake exceeds 200 mg per day, the excess vitamin C is primarily excreted by the body.”
A particularly concerning issue with supplements is their potential impact on medications. “Calcium, magnesium, iron, and high-dose vitamin C can hinder the absorption of antibiotics, thyroid medications, and some blood pressure drugs,” Rojina cautioned.
“If you are on prescription medication, even for a short time, always consult your healthcare provider before adding supplements.”
What Supplements Are Beneficial?
“In the winter months, vitamin D is advisable for the majority of adults,” she mentioned. “Omega-3 fatty acids with EPA and DHA are beneficial for brain and heart health, and magnesium can aid sleep and alleviate muscle tension.”
“Supplements should enhance your health rather than substitute for adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, and professional medical advice. If you have any doubts, consult your pharmacist. This could prevent potential harm,” she concluded.
It’s important to recognize that excessive vitamin intake can be harmful, leading to toxicity, organ damage, and other health complications. While small quantities are essential, high doses, especially of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), are stored in the body rather than being excreted, which may result in adverse effects.
Moreover, frequently combining multiple supplements or consuming fortified foods alongside pills increases the risk of overdosing. This is why vigilance is necessary.
Always seek medical advice prior to initiating any supplement regimen, especially if you are pregnant, elderly, or have preexisting health conditions. It is crucial to obtain professional guidance.
Ensure our latest headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
