2023-09-19 14:33:22
Title: The Risks of Overdosing on Dietary Supplements: Expert Warns of Potential Organ Damage
Subtitle: Calcium and Potassium Overdose Pose Serious Health Risks
By: Juliane Gutmann
Published: September 19, 2023, 5:12 a.m
In today’s health-conscious society, many individuals turn to dietary supplements to compensate for nutritional deficiencies. However, a recent warning from experts emphasizes the potential risks associated with long-term and excessive use of these supplements. Notably, certain vitamins can lead to overdose and even organ damage if not consumed responsibly.
Dietary supplements are concentrated forms of vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, or other nutrients that aim to supplement one’s daily diet. These products are widely available over-the-counter, in drugstores, pharmacies, or online shops. While they can serve as a convenient means of addressing nutritional gaps, caution must be exercised, as their quality, purity, and appropriate dosage may not always be guaranteed.
One of the primary concerns surrounding dietary supplements is the risk of overdosing on micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Excessive intake of certain vitamins can have adverse effects on the body. Consequently, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist before initiating any supplement regimen. Experts still advocate for a well-balanced diet as the best source of essential nutrients.
Renowned professor of pharmaceutical nutrition, Martin Smollich, warns against the dangers of overdosing on calcium through dietary supplements. Smollich highlights that excessive calcium intake beyond 1,500 milligrams per day can escalate the risk of heart attacks. Similarly, an overdose of potassium can prove life-threatening, leading to intestinal obstruction, muscle weakness, paralysis, lung failure, and cardiac arrhythmias. The German Society for Nutrition recommends consuming no more than five to six grams of potassium daily, provided kidney function remains unaffected.
Angela Clausen, a consumer advocate from the North Rhine-Westphalia Consumer Center, emphasizes the importance of strictly adhering to the manufacturer’s dosage recommendations. Disruptive metabolic changes may occur with an overdose, making it essential to limit daily doses of vitamins and minerals to 100 percent of the reference amount without medical advice.
Furthermore, vitamins themselves can cause adverse effects when consumed in excessive amounts. The AOK cautions against excessive intake of certain vitamins, such as vitamin A, which can lead to reduced bone stability and harm the unborn child in pregnant women. Overdosing on vitamin B3 may manifest as skin redness, headache, drop in blood pressure, diarrhea, burning heart, abdominal pain, and even liver damage. Excessive vitamin B6 intake can result in nerve disorders and an unsteady gait, while an overdose of vitamin D may cause high calcium levels, nausea, headaches, muscle weakness, kidney stones, kidney damage, calcification, and cardiac arrhythmias. Lastly, an excessive intake of vitamin E can increase the bleeding tendency in individuals.
While dietary supplements can play a role in supporting overall health, it is crucial to approach them with caution. Responsible use, proper dosages, and consultations with healthcare professionals can help mitigate potential risks. Ultimately, a well-rounded and balanced diet remains the foundation for meeting nutritional needs.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information on health topics and is not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment, or medication. It does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. Individual questions about medical conditions cannot be answered by our editorial team.
Note: This article was created with the assistance of machine technology and carefully reviewed by Editor Juliane Gutmann before publication.]
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