Vitamins
A person holds pharmaceutical tablets and capsules in this picture illustration taken in Ljubljana September 18, 2013 Reuters/Zrdjan Zivulovic

Many people believe that there is no harm in taking vitamins in any manner and that any excess will only be excreted by the body. The truth is, there are contraindications to vitamin intake and there are associated health risks in excessive or improper consumption. Here are common dangers of vitamin misuse.

1. Consumption over a long period

In a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 1994, a study group of smokers, consisting of 29,000 Finnish men, were given beta carotene, vitamin E, both or a placebo. The results showed that individuals who took beta carotene over a span of five to eight years were more prone to dying from heart disease or lung cancer. Another study in 2004 showed how beta carotene intake, together with vitamins A, C and E and selenium actually increased mortality among people, instead of preventing intestinal cancers. These findings show how long term consumption of certain vitamins can actually do more harm than good.

2. Taking too much

In a report by WebMD.com, taking too much zinc or vitamin C can lead to diarrhea, stomach cramps and nausea. Excessive consumption of selenium can result to fatigue, hair loss, mild nerve damage and gastrointestinal problems. Other vitamins, when taken excessively, can even lead to more serious symptoms and diseases. It is advised to follow the recommended daily dosage as provided in the label. People will need different amounts based on their body weight and physical condition.

3. Seeing vitamins as the cause, not the effect

In a study published in the medical journal The Lancet, researchers concluded that low vitamin D can be indicative of an underlying health problem. Individuals should take time to monitor their health levels and go for a physical checkup regularly so they can detect diseases based on the amount of vitamins or lack of these. Supplementation will help improve overall condition and mortality.

4. Focusing only on certain vitamins

Some people only supplement on specific vitamins and neglect others. There are also people who take too much of a certain vitamin, compromising other vitamins in the process. In the same report by WebMD.com, taking over 1000 micrograms of folic acid a day might hide the signs of vitamin B12 deficiency.