As winter settles in, concerns are growing about the safety of vitamin D supplements, especially for those experiencing specific troubling symptoms. It’s essential to stay informed about how these supplements can affect your health.
During the winter months, obtaining adequate vitamin D can be challenging, particularly for those who leave home before dawn and return long after sunset. To counter this, many individuals choose to take supplements.
However, experts caution that taking these supplements may lead to some unwelcome side effects.
According to a statement from the NHS, “From October to March, we can’t produce sufficient vitamin D from sunlight. To maintain healthy bones and muscles, a daily supplement of 10 micrograms is advisable. These supplements are widely available at pharmacies and retailers.”
It can be difficult to get enough vitamin D during the winter months (Janina Steinmetz/Getty Images)
According to reports from The Mirror, you should discontinue vitamin D supplements immediately if you notice any of the following four symptoms.
Nausea, Burping, or Stomach Upset
Experiencing nausea or stomach discomfort is never ideal, particularly after taking supplements. Experts suggest taking your vitamin D with food to mitigate these side effects. If you find that sprays or gummies upset your stomach, consider switching to standard tablets, which may be easier on your digestive system.
Many sprays contain sweeteners that may irritate the digestive tract, an issue less common with regular tablets.
Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination
The Mirror elaborated on how excessive vitamin D intake can disrupt your body’s fluid and salt regulation, resulting in frequent urination and increased thirst. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it could indicate that you’re over-consuming vitamin D.
Cognitive Issues
You might assume that vitamin D would improve clarity and reduce headaches, but paradoxically, taking too much can cause cognitive difficulties such as headaches and brain fog.
Many people take vitamin D supplements in the winter (Kinga Krzeminska/Getty Images)
If cognitive difficulties are an issue, consider switching from gummies to straightforward 10 microgram D3 tablets.
Bone and Muscle Pain
If you’re experiencing persistent bone or muscle pain shortly after taking vitamin D supplements, this should raise a red flag. To alleviate any discomfort, ensure you are staying hydrated and consuming foods rich in essential minerals. Additionally, reducing your vitamin D intake can significantly help in relieving these symptoms.
Awareness of these potential side effects is crucial for safe supplement use. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms.
