Human Nutrition 3(3+0)

Lesson 21 : Vitamin D

Toxic effects of excess Vitamin D

Vitamin D may have toxic effects when consumed in excessive amounts through supplementation. The earliest sign is loss of appetite. Nausea and vomiting are frequently associated.

• Intense thirst and polyuria may soon follow.
• The affected child will be dull and weak in appearance and wasting of muscles is observed.
• Excess vitamin D raises blood calcium levels, leading to stone formation in kidneys where calcium becomes concentrated in an effort to excrete it.
• If over dosage is continued, the increased blood calcium levels result in calcification of soft tissues such as arteries, kidneys and lungs, leading to death.