What are the side effects of Vitamin D?
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 7, 2024.
Vitamin D has very few side effects when taken at dosages recommended for your age. Side effects are more likely if you take too much vitamin D in the form of supplements, which would then increase your absorption of calcium. These side effects may include:
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Bone pain
- Confusion or disorientation
- Constipation
- High blood calcium levels
- Kidney stones
- Muscle weakness or fatigue
- Nausea
- Poor appetite
- Stomach pain.
Vitamin D is an important vitamin for good bone health. It helps with the absorption of calcium and the regulation of other minerals in the body. Without it, bones will become fragile, misshapen and soft, known as rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Vitamin D deficiency has also been associated with some cancers, heart disease, depression, and weight gain.
We make vitamin D in our skin when it is exposed to sunlight; however, people who are institutionalized or immobile, spend most of their time indoors, with dark skin, or cover their skin for religious reasons are at risk of vitamin D deficiency.
For more information about vitamin D see here
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How much Vitamin D should you take?
Most adults need 600–800 International Units (IU), or 15–20 micrograms (mcg), of vitamin D per day to support bone and immune health.
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Vitamin D Deficiency: What are the symptoms?
Vitamin D deficiency symptoms can vary from subtle to severe and often develop gradually. Early signs include fatigue, bone or back pain, muscle weakness or cramps, frequent illness, and hair loss.
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Should I take magnesium with vitamin D?
Yes, taking magnesium with vitamin D is generally safe — and often beneficial — because magnesium helps your body activate and use vitamin D effectively.
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