Question

Is it impossible to overdose on Vitamin C? Please explain. Site references.

Answer 1

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is found in many fruits and vegetables. Vitamin C plays an important role in collagen formation, functions as an antioxidant, boosting the immune system. Even if we need to consume vitamin C every day, too much can be toxic. Since Vitamin C is water soluble ,It's possible to take too much vitamin C. (because excess amounts are excreted and do not accumulate in the body). But , there are potential short-term and long-term problems by taking high doses (500 to 1,000 mg per day) or very high doses (more than 2,000 mg per day) of vitamin C.

Very high doses of vitamin C are known to cause gastric discomfort and diarrhea, and this form the basis for the current upper tolerable daily intake limit of 2,000 mg for adults. Consumption of more than 2,000 mg of vitamin C, may develop severe gastrointestinal irritation and diarrhea. In addition to significant discomfort, extended episodes of diarrhea or vomiting can lead to dehydration, causing extreme thirst, fatigue, low urine output and reduced blood pressure. Diarrhea and vomiting can also cause additional mineral imbalances in the body. Also high vitamin C intake is associated with an increased risk of oxalate kidney stones .

Thus it is impossible to overdose on Vitamin C

1. ^{http://www.consumerlab.com/answers/Is+it+possible+to+take+too+much+vitamin+C%3F/too_much_vitamin_c/}
2. ^{http://www.livestrong.com/article/421776-side-effects-of-a-vitamin-c-overdose/}