Health experts warn that exceeding recommended Vitamin D supplement doses can lead to serious complications, including heart problems and kidney stones. Dr. Oscar Duke highlights the need for caution during low-sunlight months.
Vitamin D’s Role in Health
Vitamin D helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels, supporting strong bones, teeth, and muscles while boosting the immune system. In regions with limited sunlight, such as the UK, many people face deficiencies, making supplementation essential from late autumn through early spring.
Official Dosage Guidelines
Health authorities recommend 10 micrograms (400 international units, or IU) of Vitamin D daily for individuals over one year old, from October to early March. Dr. Oscar Duke states, “In these winter and autumn months, it’s really important to supplement our vitamin D because we don’t get enough from sunlight.”
Over-the-counter supplements often contain 800 to 1,000 IU per dose, making it easy to surpass safe levels unintentionally.
Dangers of Excessive Intake
Intakes above 4,000 IU daily risk Vitamin D overdose. Prolonged excess causes hypercalcaemia, a buildup of calcium that harms the body. Dr. Duke explains, “If you get too much calcium in your body, then that can affect your heart. You can get calcium stones in your kidneys, and it can really upset your tummy.”
Officials set 4,000 IU (100 micrograms) as the safe upper limit for adults, noting that toxicity remains rare but preventable.
Prevalence of Deficiency
Survey data shows about one in six UK adults lacks sufficient Vitamin D levels during winter. Dr. Duke urges sticking to guidelines: “The NHS and government recommendation is that we take 400 international units of vitamin D a day during those autumn and winter months.” He adds, “If you’re getting over 4,000 international units, then you’re at potential risk of vitamin D overdose.”
Always check supplement labels and consult a doctor if unsure about dosage to avoid health risks while addressing deficiencies.
