There are mainly eight vitamins that belong to the group of vitamin B complex. An overdose of these vitamins can cause several health problems. Find out the symptoms and the complications that can be caused by the excessive intake of B vitamins.
Vitamin B complex is a group of eight vitamins. These eight B vitamins are water-soluble vitamins, which are crucial for cell metabolism, growth, development, and cell reproduction. These vitamins are required for regulating the rate of metabolism, and for maintaining the health of the nervous and the digestive system, skin, and hair.
They also support the functions of the immune system, and facilitate cell growth and division. A deficiency of B vitamins can manifest in several health problems, which may necessitate the use of supplementation. The excessive intake of these supplements can cause an overdose, which may produce some annoying symptoms, which are discussed below.
Side Effects of Taking B Vitamins in Excess
Vitamin B1
Vitamin B1 or thiamine is required for energy production, and for maintaining the health of the nervous system and the mucous membranes. In spite of all these benefits, an overdose of this vitamin can cause skin rash, hypersensitivity, heart palpitation, agitation, and high blood pressure.
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, is essential for the production of energy from food. It is essential for maintaining vision and the health of the mucous membrane. It is also required to maintain a strong immune system, and regulate the growth of red blood cells. However, the presence of excess riboflavin in the body may cause fatigue, vomiting, and low blood pressure.
Vitamin B3
Niacin or vitamin B3 is required by the body to convert food into energy, and maintain the health of the digestive system, skin, and the nerves. However, if taken in an excessive amount, it can cause a number of side effects, such as skin rash, insomnia, flushing, nausea, vomiting, high blood sugar, ulcers, and liver problems.
Vitamin B5
Pantothenic acid plays an important role in the oxidation of fats, carbohydrates, and certain amino acids. It is essential for the production of fats and several hormones. An overdose of this vitamin can produce symptoms like diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems, and water retention.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine is essential for protein and carbohydrate metabolism, and the formation of red blood cells. It is also required for maintaining the health of the nervous and the immune system. An overdose of this vitamin can cause sensory neuropathy, which in turn can cause numbness and a tingling sensation, especially in the hands and feet. Development of skin lesions can be another side effect associated with an overdose of vitamin B6. High levels of vitamin B6 can deplete the levels of other B vitamins.
Vitamin B7
Biotin or vitamin B7 is essential for normal growth of hair. It facilitates the production of certain hormones. This vitamin is not known to have any overdose or toxicity effect, though some people might experience symptoms like skin rash, and an increase in blood sugar due to biotin overdose.
Vitamin B9
Folic acid or vitamin B9 is a very important vitamin, which facilitates the production of red blood cells and DNA. People having epilepsy can experience convulsions due to an overdose of folic acid. Folic acid overdose can mask the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. A deficiency of vitamin B12 can cause neurological problems, if it is left untreated.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is one of the most important B vitamins that plays a crucial role in the formation of red blood cells. It promotes the functions of the nervous system as well. It facilitates the use of folic acid. Both folic acid and vitamin B12 help build red blood cells. The effects of an overdose of vitamin B12 are not known. Some people might experience palpitation, and numbness or a tingling sensation in the extremities of the body.
The side effects caused by an overdose of these vitamins can be avoided by taking them in the appropriate dosage prescribed by your physician. However, it is always safe to get these vitamins from your diet. A diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables, along with whole grains, cereals, and meat products can provide sufficient amounts of all the B vitamins. As far as supplements are concerned, talk to your physician prior to taking any vitamin and mineral supplementation.
Disclaimer: This NutriNeat article is for informative purposes only, and should not be replaced for the advice of a medical professional.
