Excessive amounts
of Vitamin E causes toxicity.
Although vitamins are essential to a healthy diet, too much can cause acute and chronic toxicity effects. Small dosage of vitamins is recommended by the Food and Drug Administration to prevent overdose and poisoning.
Categories
Vitamins are grouped into two categories: Water soluble and fat soluble. Vitamins C and B-complex vitamins are water soluble and don't stay in the body. Vitamins A, D, E and K are fat soluble and store in the fatty tissues of the body after daily needs are met increasing the effects of toxicity.
Toxicity
Vitamin A poisoning causes fatigue, headaches and abnormal bone growth. Excess vitamin D causes tissue calcification and stomach upset. Toxic levels of E increase blood pressure and bruising. An increased amount of Vitamin K causes vomiting, thrombosis and complications with pregnancy.
Interactions
Excessive amounts of vitamins can interact with prescription drugs and medical treatments. Vitamins C and E reduce the efficiency of chemotherapy. Vitamin K counteracts the effectiveness of blood thinners.
Considerations
Many vitamins are added to certain foods. Eating foods high in vitamins and taking vitamin supplements raise the risk of side effects. The National Institute of Health states that vitamin supplements have not been tested for use by pregnant or nursing women.
