Understanding Vitamin D
It’s important to know that providing the necessary nutrients to the body, including vitamin D, is an essential part of health. Excessive intake of vitamin D is rare and is usually the result of misuse of the vitamin.
Research shows that food and sunlight rarely lead to excess vitamin D. Note that vitamin D levels remain within normal limits even after prolonged exposure to sunlight (less than 80 ng/mL).
For adults and children over 9 years old, as well as for pregnant and breastfeeding women without deficiency, the allowed daily limit for vitamin D is 100 micrograms (4000 international units). For infants under one year old, the limit is 1500 international units, and from one to three years old, it is 2500 international units, and from 4 to 8 years old, it is 3000 international units.
Vitamin D levels in the body are classified as follows:
- Deficiency: Less than 50 nanomoles per liter or 20 ng/mL.
- Mild deficiency: 50–75 nanomoles per liter or 20–30 ng/mL.
- Target level: 75–150 nanomoles per liter or 30–69 ng/mL.
- Optimal level: 75–250 nanomoles per liter or 30–100 ng/mL.
- Potentially toxic level: More than 250 nanomoles per liter or 100 ng/mL.
In case of vitamin D deficiency, the therapeutic dose can be increased by 2-3 times. Additional doses may be recommended for individuals with nutrient absorption problems, obesity, or those taking medications that affect vitamin D metabolism (such as corticosteroids, antivirals, antiepileptics, antifungals, and orlistat). However, excessive or prolonged use should be avoided without consulting a doctor, as this can lead to increased vitamin D levels in the body.
Symptoms of vitamin D overdose include:
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Increased urination.
- Severe thirst.
- Weakness.
- Nervousness.
- Itching.
If vitamin D overdose is accompanied by an increase in blood calcium levels, neurological and psychological disorders ranging from excitement to coma may occur. Over time, this may progress to kidney failure and calcification (especially in the kidneys).
If you notice similar symptoms, consult your doctor. Do not self-medicate – it poses a risk to your health!