Khaberni - Dr. Yelena Aleksentsiva, an internal medicine and pediatrics specialist, indicates that in recent years, taking vitamin D has become normal for many.
The doctor warned that a high level of vitamin D in the body above 150 nanograms/ml can lead to calcium accumulation in the blood and its deposition in the heart muscle, intestinal walls, and stomach.
The doctor explained that excessive intake of vitamin D has a direct toxic effect on cell membranes and metabolism, as it increases calcium absorption, which causes hypercalcemia, with symptoms such as digestive disorders, dizziness, weakness, and confusion. It may also lead to reduced activity of vitamin K2, loss of bone mass, and kidney damage. She confirmed that reaching dangerous levels usually does not occur from sun exposure or a natural diet but often through dietary supplements or medications, especially in children with fish oil supplements for the prevention of rickets.
In contrast, Aleksentsiva confirmed that vitamin D is beneficial when taken in moderate doses, as it enhances:
- Insulin receptor sensitivity.
- Strengthening of bone tissues.
- Synthesis of sex hormones (testosterone, estrogen, progesterone) and improved reproductive function.
- Support for innate and adaptive immunity.
- Prevention of tumors, depression, and Parkinson's disease.
The doctor advised monitoring vitamin D levels in patients suffering from: rickets, anorexia, lack of sun exposure, age over 65 years, osteoporosis and osteomalacia, malabsorption syndrome, liver and kidney diseases, parathyroid gland diseases, allergies, and autoimmune diseases.
She pointed out that obesity, lymphoid tumors, and granulomatous diseases are among the prominent causes of poor absorption of vitamin D, which necessitates careful monitoring of dosages and vitamin levels in the blood to ensure health benefits and avoid risks.
