10/17/2025
Too much of a good thing?
I am increasingly seeing patients taking very high levels of Vitamin D supplementation.
Recently, 16 people were hospitalized in Spain with hypervitaminosis D (vitamin D overdose) due to ingestion of improperly labeled supplements. Their symptoms included abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Lab testing showed acute kidney failure, elevated blood calcium levels, and high Vitamin D in the blood.
While many factors can contribute to the need for differing doses of Vitamin D (such as sun exposure, skin tone, weight, and genetics), overdose can occur.
I generally recommend doses of 2000IU per day for adults, but blood testing can help determine whether you need more or your current dose is too high. Aim for blood levels around 50ng/mL.