Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps in increased absorption and metabolism of minerals mainly Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphate and many such important biological functions. It is required for cognitive body functions, increasing immunity, maintenance of blood sugar level and mood swing. It has also seen to affect the cardiovascular health. Some studies have shown that the vitamin helps in cancer prevention and some of the new studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency may also lead to fecal and urinary incontinence or frequent urination.
Human body produces two types of Vitamin D, namely, Cholecalciferol and Ergocalciferol.
Cholecalciferol is Vitamin D3 which is produced by human skin. On exposure to UV light, Cholecalciferol is converted into Calcifediol in the liver and later into Calcitriol in the kidneys. It can also be consumed by dietary supplements and food items like fish, cheese and eggs. It helps in the increased absorption of calcium at the level of intestine. This hormone is mainly used to treat conditions like Vitamin D deficiency, X- linked hypophosphatemic rickets (dominant form of rickets) and hypoparathyroidism to prevent the lowering of blood calcium levels.
Ergocalciferol, also known as Vitamin D2, is mainly used as a Vitamin D supplements; however, Cholecalciferol is naturally produced by human body.
Deficiency of Vitamin D may lead to various health issues. So taking appropriate amount of Vitamin D helps in preventing bone disorders like Osteoporosis, Rickets, Osteomalacia by maintaining the calcium levels in the blood. Hence, it is advisable to take supplements, if diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency; however, excessive intake of
Vitamin D may also lead to complications. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, so excess of the vitamin might get stored in the body.
New studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency may lead to fecal and urinary incontinence. They may also be associated with pelvic disorders. Also, the condition is more commonly seen in women as compared to the males.
Can Too Much Vitamin D Cause Frequent Urination?
It is quite difficult to guess that a vitamin which has varied health benefits and the deficiency of which can cause so many health problems can also have side effects due to overconsumption. Outrageous consumption of Vitamin D may lead to side effects such as nausea and vomiting, reduced appetite leading to weakness and constipation and weight loss, gastrointestinal problems as well as urinary system issues. This can lead to frequent urination as well.
Consumption of too much Vitamin D can lead to Vitamin D toxicity which is called as hypervitaminosis D. This condition usually is rare but potentially serious. This toxicity occurs due to over dose of the external vitamin supplementation capsules or tablets and not by over exposure to sun light. Vitamin toxicity leads to elevated blood calcium levels causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting and frequent urination. It might also be associated with pain in the bones and kidney issues.
This condition is well managed by adjusting the Vitamin D daily dose and avoiding the external dietary intake of calcium supplements to avoid further elevation of Calcium levels in the bloodstream.
Conclusion
Administration of certain medications can alter the vitamin D content in the blood stream; hence Vitamin D should be taken under a physician’s recommendation. One should avoid taking anything above the prescribed daily dose.
Commonly used Vitamin D supplements are in range of 2000 to 10,000 International units per day. Some people take 50,000 IU per week depending upon the requirement and age of the person. The daily dose for older age is less due to decreased ability for Vitamin D absorption. The capsules are more consumed in area where during winter the sun exposure is way less.
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