Vitamin supplements: Too much of a good thing?

The number of people admitted to hospital because of a lack of vitamins or minerals is soaring. In fact, NHS data showed admissions for vitamin or iron deficiencies were up by more than 10% year on year, and as much as tenfold compared to 1998-99. And whilst turning to supplements might seem like the obvious solution, it is important to do so sensibly, because as the health experts at YourGP explain, you can have too much of a good thing…

Common symptoms of vitamin deficiencies

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can be responsible for a wide range of issues, ranging from tiredness and thinning hair, right through to mood changes and heart palpitations.

Booking a vitamin deficiency test at YourGP is a great way to get a clear understanding of what your body is lacking, so you can turn things around and get your health back on track. Not only do we provide short-notice appointments and a quick turnaround of test results, we can also provide personalised help and advice on how to give your body a healthy boost.

Why the RDA really matters

When reviewing your test results, your doctor may recommend you take a vitamin supplement to get your body back into balance. However, it’s essential that you follow the instructions and do not exceed the recommended daily allowance (RDA). Taking more than the RDA can lead to a variety of issues including:

• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Skin irritation
• Hair loss
• Irregular heartbeat
• Calcium deposits in the heart
• Kidney stones
• Bone thinning
• Irreversible nerve damage
• Liver damage

If your body needs a boost

If you’re lacking in any vitamins or minerals, it’s always a good idea to take a look at your diet. Aiming for a variety of fruit, vegetables and natural nutrient-dense foods is the best way to optimise your diet, and you can find lots of helpful tips from YourGP’s Dr Phimister in his guest blog, Eating for health with Dr Phimister.

In addition to a balanced diet, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommends certain supplements for some groups of people who are at risk of deficiency. These include:

• Folic acid: For all women trying for a baby and pregnant women up to week 12 of the pregnancy.
• Vitamin D: For all pregnant and breastfeeding women, children aged six months to five years, people aged 65 and over, and people who have limited sun exposure.
• Vitamins A, C and D: For children aged six months to four years.

Speak to the experts

If you think you may be suffering from a vitamin deficiency and you would like to book a test, or if you would like tailored help and advice on how to optimise your diet, book an appointment with one of our medical professionals. You can do so via our simple online booking system, by emailing reception@your.gp, or by calling us on 0131 225 5656 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.