Researchers warn of poisoning from vitamin D supplement

(MENAFN) Excessive and unsupervised use of vitamin D supplements can lead to poisoning and serious health complications, a Turkish endocrinology specialist has cautioned.

Prof. Dr. Mustafa Altay, an expert in endocrinology and metabolic diseases, highlighted that vitamin D levels above certain limits pose significant dangers.

“When the vitamin D level exceeds 100 nanograms per milliliter, there is a risk of vitamin D poisoning,” Altay said.

Discussing the widespread use of supplements, especially during the colder months, he explained that the body’s natural vitamin D production decreases in autumn and winter because sunlight does not reach the Earth at optimal angles. This can leave individuals with insufficient vitamin D stores at risk of deficiency or insufficiency.

Altay noted that a blood vitamin D level of 30 to 50 ng/mL is considered adequate for maintaining musculoskeletal health in healthy adults.

“If the measured vitamin D level is between 12 and 20 ng/mL, we consider it vitamin D insufficiency. If it is below 12 ng/mL, we define it as vitamin D deficiency,” he said.

The specialist also warned that overconsumption can be harmful because vitamin D accumulates in the body and is not easily eliminated. “Once the vitamin D level exceeds 100 ng/mL, the risk of poisoning increases. Excessive and uncontrolled intake can lead to toxic effects,” he added.

Altay emphasized the importance of distinguishing between treatment and supplementation, noting that deficiency symptoms are most common among those with limited sun exposure, particularly people who work indoors.

“These individuals may experience fatigue, muscle weakness, difficulty walking, and muscle and bone pain,” he said, adding that severe and prolonged deficiency can ultimately lead to osteoporosis and bone fractures.

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