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Everyone
needs vitamins and minerals, which are crucial for good health and
long life. What we don't need are mega doses of these essential
nutrients in pill form. The greatest health benefits come when we get
our vitamins from a balanced diet. But, few of us eat well enough for
that. So unless your doctor has advised you to take a supplement for
specific medical reason, a daily multivitamin is all most healthy
individuals need. Read labels to see how much you're getting out of
each nutrient, and ask your doctor before starting any vitamin
regimen, especially if you already take prescription drugs. Based on
latest studies, the following are the effects of overdose of
vitamins:
Vitamin-A:
Excess amounts of vitamin-A can accumulate. Too much A can blur
vision, cause headaches and vomiting, and also lead to liver, bone
and central nervous system problems, among others.
Beta
Carotene: The body converts this into Vitamin-A. Supplementation
is not recommended for the general public and should be avoided
especially by smokers, who have a greater risk of lung cancer with
regular use.
Vitamin-C:
There is no conclusive evidence that it prevents colds, heart
disease, cataracts or cancer. A glass of orange juice will give you
almost all you need.
Selenium:
Vegetarians may not get enough of this trace mineral in their diet.
Adding more via a pill may increase the risk of developing type 2
diabetes, according to a study.
Folic
Acid: It is a must during pregnancy to help prevent birth
defects, but recent studies show no real effects against risk of
heart disease cancer or depression.
Niacin:
This B vitamin can be used to treat high cholesterol, but only under
a doctor's supervision due to the risk of potentially serious side
effects, including liver damage.
Iron:
Only women who are pregnant or have heavy periods, as well as people
with diagnosed deficiency disorders such as anemia, need extra
amounts of this mineral. Iron supplements can interact with medicals,
other dietary supplements and food, and can worsen conditions like
ulcers.
Zinc:
High doses can interfere with how the body metabolizes copper and
iron, may weaken the immune system and may also reduce levels of HDL
(good) Cholesterol. Zinc supplements can also interact with certain
drugs, including some antibiotics and blood pressure medications.
Other pages on Vitamins: Introduction
Note:
While every care is taken to provide medically accurate and up to date
information in this web site, it is to be noted that this advice is not
intended to replace the advice of your physician. Before undertaking
the advice contained in this web site, you should consult a medical
professional.
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