Vitamin C - Toxicity Symptoms and Precautions

Introduction

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin. It is necessary for proper growth and development.

Water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water. Excess vitamins are excreted in the urine. Although the body stores a tiny amount of these vitamins, they must be taken regularly to avoid a deficiency. It also benefits the immune system by acting as an antioxidant. Fruits and vegetables are the finest sources; however, some may require supplementation.

What Are the Uses of Vitamin C?

Vitamin C is necessary for tissue development and wound healing in the entire body. It is used to:

• Form a vital protein called collagen to build skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels.

• Heal wounds and develop scar tissue.

• Repair and maintain the cartilage, bones, and teeth.

• Improve iron absorption.

• Vitamin C is one of numerous antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that reduce the damage produced by free radicals.

Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid. Vitamin C plays a pivotal role in many body functions, such as;

• Helps in the absorption of iron.

• Helps in the formation of amino acids, hormones, and collagen.

• . It supports wound healing.

• . It is essential for bone and blood vessel health.

• . It is an antioxidant.

• . It supports the immune system.

Due to all these functions of vitamin C, dietary vitamin C intake is essential as the body does not produce or store vitamin C. The primary sources of vitamin C are citrus fruits, broccoli, strawberries, potatoes, and tomatoes. For adults, 75 to 90 mg is the daily recommended dose. The maximum limit is 2000 mg per day. If vitamin C intake exceeds the maximum limit, it can cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, etc. Such a condition is known as vitamin C toxicity.

What Are the Symptoms of Vitamin C Toxicity?

When the intake of vitamin C exceeds the maximum limit, which is 2000 mg/day, it can cause,

• Diarrhea.

• Nausea and vomiting.

• Abdominal cramps.

• Insomnia.

• Headache.

• Fatigue.

• Heartburns.

• Fever.

• In some cases, vitamin C is taken in higher doses; for example, the recommended dosage for reversing cancer progression is 10 g/day. Such doses can acidify urine, leading to the formation of kidney stones. They may also affect the body's antioxidant–prooxidant balance, leading to oxidative stress that can cause cell and tissue damage.

• In patients with blood disorders like thalassemia, it can cause iron overload (too much iron in the body).

What Is the Daily Recommended Dosage of Vitamin C?

The recommended dosage of vitamin C varies among different age groups.

• The recommended dosage is higher during pregnancy and lactation. During pregnancy, the recommended dosage is 80 to 85 mg/day, and during lactation, it is 115 to 120 mg/day.

• For infants, the requirement should be met through diet, and individuals who smoke may require 35 mg more of vitamin C than non-smokers daily.

What Are the Severe Side Effects of Vitamin C Toxicity?

Some severe side effects of vitamin C toxicity include kidney stones, bone spurs (bony projections that develop along the bone edges), and nutrient imbalance. Excessive vitamin C can also affect the action of the drug Niacin-Simvastatin.

• Kidney Stones: An excess of vitamin C may result in the formation of oxalates and uric acid in the urine, leading to kidney stones.

• Bone Spurs: Studies have shown that excess vitamin C can cause bone spurs. However, when vitamin C levels are low, it can also cause rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, appropriate vitamin C supplementation is recommended.

• Nutrient Imbalances: Excess vitamin C in the body can interfere with the absorption and levels of other nutrients. Excess vitamin C can enhance iron absorption, which is dangerous in individuals suffering from blood disorders like hemochromatosis. It may also reduce vitamin B-12 absorption.

• Action on Niacin-Simvastatin: Excess vitamin C may affect the body’s ability to produce high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in patients using Niacin-Simvastatin.

How Can One Get More Vitamin C From Diet?

• Vitamin C can be found in many fruits and vegetables.

• Citrus fruits, green peppers, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, white potatoes, and sweet potatoes are the most vitamin C-rich foods.

• Dark leafy greens, cantaloupe, papaya, mango, watermelon, Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, red peppers, raspberries, blueberries, winter squash, and pineapples are other excellent sources.

Here are eight simple strategies to include extra fruits and vegetables in one diet every day:

• Add pureed or grated fruits and vegetables to muffin, meatloaf, and soup recipes.

• Keep chopped fruits and vegetables on hand for a fast snack.

• Frozen fruit slices make for a refreshing summer treat.

• Use dark lettuce, tomatoes, and shredded broccoli slaw on all sandwiches and wraps.

• Eat fresh vegetables with hummus, low-fat dips, and salsas.

• Mix fresh or frozen berries into muffins, pancakes, cereal, and salads.

• For a simple snack, sprinkle a handful of dried fruit over cereal or place it in a baggie with nuts.

• A glass of vegetable juice is a satisfying and low-calorie mid-afternoon snack.

When to See a Doctor?

If one observes any symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, or other symptoms mentioned above after taking vitamin C supplements, consult a doctor immediately.

What to Do in Case of Vitamin C Toxicity?

In case of vitamin C toxicity, immediately stop taking vitamin C supplements. Drink lots of water to flush out excess vitamin C. Consult a physician immediately if a person is taking other medications, like Niacin or chemotherapy. Over-the-counter drugs can be taken for symptoms like vomiting and nausea.

Conclusion:

Vitamin C is essential for the proper functioning of the body. But when taken in excess, it may cause adverse symptoms. Vitamin C toxicity can be easily managed in a healthy individual. There is no chance of dying from vitamin C toxicity if one is healthy. However, if one is on any other medications, it is always best to seek medical help in case of vitamin C toxicity.