This piece was written by USF student Jenna Miller.
Initially this question seems absurd, but the answer may surprise you. With the current concern trending towards wellness, the consumer desire for multi-vitamins and nutritional supplements has gone up exponentially. However, people may be getting more than they bargained for. Consuming an excess of certain vitamins over the daily recommended amount may result in vitamin toxicity, or hypervitaminosis, which can cause serious side effects.
Aside from the vitamins and minerals found in commonly consumed foods, fortified foods like vitamin waters and certain cereals are also finding a major market. With the influx of extra vitamins in everyday foods, there is a risk of getting too much of a good thing. The vitamins most infamous for causing negative side effects when taken in excess are vitamins A, C, D, E, and K. Vitamin A assists in cell reproduction, tooth development, bone growth, and supporting the immune system. However, according to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, an excess of Vitamin A may induce headaches, cause liver damage, reduce bone strength, and can even cause birth defects. MariAnne from SteadyHealth.com attests that an overabundance of vitamin E can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and too much iron may cause nausea and vomiting. While the benefits of vitamins and minerals should in no way be diminished, it is worth considering the amount you are consuming and reassessing the methods in which you consume them. Multi-vitamins on average provide 100% of all daily vitamins and minerals while you are often still consuming the same vitamins and minerals in your daily foods.
Solution? Steer away from the multi-vitamin and rely on natural sources. You can grab some vitamin E with sunflower seeds, blueberries, or potatoes. If you are feeling in a hearty mood, most meats and cheeses contain vitamin D. While vitamin A seems tricky, having to balance an impressive resume against a threatening rap sheet, you can work out the difference with some broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, or yummy watermelon (which you can soak with Vodka for a treat with your vitamins now and again). Either way, you should always consult your physician concerning your personal health, and decide on the most appropriate method to keep you happy, healthy and glowing from the inside out.
This article appears in Jan 27 – Feb 2, 2011.