A middle-aged man developed severe health problems after prolonged use of dietary supplements, according to BMJ Case Reports.
The man began taking several different supplements daily after receiving advice from a nutrition therapist to address various health complaints.
About a month later, a range of symptoms appeared, including nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, leg cramps, and tinnitus.
The symptoms continued for nearly three months before he was admitted to hospital.
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Tests there revealed both acute kidney impairment and significantly elevated levels of calcium in his blood.
During the hospital stay, which lasted eight days, the patient received fluids directly into the bloodstream as well as medical treatment to reduce the level of calcium in his body.
According to BMJ Case Reports, blood tests also showed that his vitamin D levels were far above what is considered necessary.
Too much calcium in the body
Doctors linked the patient’s condition to hypercalcaemia, a condition in which the concentration of calcium in the blood becomes too high.
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North Bristol NHS Trust explains that this condition can affect the bones, kidneys, stomach, and nervous system.
Possible consequences include kidney stones, weakened bones, and a range of neurological symptoms.
In severe cases, the condition can also affect the kidneys and heart, highlighting the importance of correct dosing when taking dietary supplements.
The mmount of vitamin D
According to BMJ Case Reports, the patient consumed around 150,000 international units of vitamin D daily through supplements.
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This is far above the levels recommended by health authorities.
The NHS states that a daily intake of more than 4,000 international units may be harmful for adults, while much smaller amounts are normally sufficient to meet the body’s needs.
Researchers behind the report also note that cases of vitamin D overdose appear to be increasing globally.
They point out that even supplements generally considered safe can lead to serious health problems if taken in excessively high doses or in inappropriate combinations.
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Sources: LADbible, BMJ Case Reports, and North Bristol NHS Trust.
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