Taking Vitamins for Health? The Hidden Dangers: Increased Risk of Stroke and Cancer

Risk of Seizures and Organ Damage with High-Dose, Long-Term Use

Fat-Soluble Vitamins Can Accumulate and Cause Toxicity

Supplement stock photo. Getty Images Bank

Experts have issued a warning that vitamins, often taken for health, can actually become harmful. While they are essential nutrients, excessive intake can disrupt the body's balance and lead to a variety of side effects.

Recently, American Doctor of Pharmacy Megan Nunn explained in an interview with health media outlet Verywell Health that "the problem of vitamin overdose is most likely to occur when specific ingredients are consumed in high doses over a long period." She added, "Symptoms can start with mild skin rashes or vomiting, and in severe cases, may progress to seizures, stroke, or organ damage."

"Too much can be toxic"... May even increase risk of death

The risks of excessive vitamin intake have also been confirmed in research. According to a study by the University of New South Wales in Australia, taking more than 400 IU of vitamin E per day over a long period may increase the risk of death. Additionally, some studies have shown that excessive consumption of vitamins A, B6, and B12 can raise the risk of lung cancer.

Supplement reference photo. Pixabay

Fat-soluble vitamins can turn toxic when accumulated

The side effects of vitamins vary depending on their type. In particular, fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K have a tendency to accumulate in the body, which greatly increases the risk of toxicity if taken in excess.

Excessive intake of vitamin A can cause skin peeling, liver damage, decreased vision, and increased intracranial pressure. During pregnancy, it may also negatively affect the fetal development of the heart and brain.

Excess vitamin D can cause symptoms such as severe thirst, frequent urination, and neurological abnormalities, and in extreme cases, may lead to a coma. Studies have also shown that taking large amounts of both vitamins A and D can lower bone density and increase the risk of fractures. Accumulation of excessive vitamin E can increase the tendency for bleeding and raise the risk of stroke.

Water-soluble vitamins are not always safe... Side effects from overuse

Although water-soluble B vitamins and vitamin C are relatively safe as they dissolve in water and are excreted more easily, excessive intake can still lead to side effects. Overconsumption may cause non-specific symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rashes, so caution is needed. Taking multiple supplements at once can increase total intake and lead to unexpected excess.

Infants, children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those taking multiple supplements are particularly vulnerable to vitamin toxicity. Children may easily overdose by eating sweet, jelly-like vitamins as if they were candy, and pregnant women who take too much vitamin A are at higher risk of fetal abnormalities. The elderly may also experience side effects even at standard dosages due to reduced metabolic and excretion capacity.

"Only as much as needed"... Avoid indiscriminate use

Experts emphasize that healthy adults who eat a balanced diet do not necessarily require additional vitamin supplements. In fact, a study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) found that many people obtain sufficient vitamins from their diet alone.

Before taking vitamin supplements, it is advisable to check for deficiencies through blood tests. This is especially important for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, follow special diets, or have chronic diseases—they should consult with medical professionals first.

Dr. Megan Nunn stressed, "Vitamins are beneficial to health only when taken in appropriate amounts," adding, "Taking more does not increase effectiveness, so it is most important to tailor intake to individual needs."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.