Vitamin D, commonly known as the sunshine vitamin, plays a significant role in our overall health. It helps to regulate calcium and phosphorus, strengthen bones, boost immune system, and even lower the risk of some types of cancer.
However, recent studies have pointed out that too much vitamin D can harm our kidneys. This article will discuss why excess vitamin D is harmful to our kidneys and how to prevent it.
What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that our body needs to maintain healthy bones, teeth, and muscles. It also helps fight off infections and diseases. Most of the vitamin D we need is produced by our bodies when our skin is exposed to sunlight.
A small amount of vitamin D can also be obtained from food sources like oily fish, liver, egg yolks and fortified cereals.
What are the Recommended Daily Intake of Vitamin D?
The recommended daily intake of vitamin D varies based on age and health conditions. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin D is as follows:.
- Infants 0-12 months: 400 IU/day
- Children 1-18 years: 600-1000 IU/day
- Adults 19-70 years: 600-800 IU/day
- Adults over 70 years: 800-1000 IU/day
How Vitamin D Affects Kidneys?
When we take vitamin D, our body converts it into an active form called calcitriol that helps to absorb calcium from our intestines.
However, if you have kidney problems, high levels of calcitriol can cause excessive calcium absorption that leads to high levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia). This is known as “Vitamin D toxicity.”.
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Vitamin D Toxicity and Kidney Damage
Hypercalcemia can have several negative effects on the kidneys, including:.
- Reduced ability to filter waste products
- Formation of kidney stones
- Damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys
- Lowering of kidney function over time
What are the Symptoms of Vitamin D Toxicity?
Vitamin D toxicity can cause various symptoms, including:.
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Weakness and fatigue
- Trouble sleeping
- Excessive thirst and urination
- Confusion and disorientation
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
How to Prevent Vitamin D Toxicity?
To prevent vitamin D toxicity and ensure that your kidneys stay healthy, you should follow these recommendations:.
- Get your vitamin D levels checked: Before you start taking vitamin D supplements, get your levels checked to determine if you need it.
- Take the right dose: Always follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding the dosage and duration of vitamin D supplementation.
- Do not overdose: Do not take more vitamin D supplements than the recommended daily allowance. Excess intake can lead to toxicity.
- Watch your diet: Consuming too many vitamin D-rich foods can also lead to vitamin D toxicity. Therefore, watch your diet and limit your intake of liver, oily fish, and egg yolks.
- Stay hydrated: Staying hydrated helps to flush out excess calcium from your bloodstream and prevent kidney stones.
- Exercise regularly: Regular exercise helps to reduce the risk of kidney problems and maintain overall health.
Conclusion
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that our body needs to maintain overall health. However, excess vitamin D can lead to toxicity, which can harm our kidneys and cause several negative effects.
Therefore, it is essential to ensure that you take the right dosage of vitamin D supplements, watch your diet, exercise regularly, and stay hydrated. Consult your doctor if you are concerned about your vitamin D levels and kidney health.
