Can Vitamins & Minerals Cause Headaches?

Can Vitamins & Minerals Cause Headaches?

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People take vitamin and mineral supplements to help them feel better. If you get a headache after taking vitamins, it’s time to do a little sleuthing. The first thing you need to find out is which vitamins cause headaches and whether they’re the cause of your discomfort. Mineral supplementation does not appear to cause headaches, but excessive amounts of vitamins A and C can.

General Warnings for Supplements

Vitamin and mineral supplements can affect people differently. Each person taking the same supplement may experience different side effects — or none at all. As a general caution, health sites including Drugs.com report that all multivitamins could cause side effects, including upset stomach and headache. However, these effects are not considered serious unless they’re accompanied by hives, difficulty in breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. These symptoms likely indicate an allergic reaction and require immediate medical attention.

Excess Vitamin A Side Effects

As a fat-soluble vitamin, extra vitamin A is stored in the body — unlike excesses of water-soluble vitamins, which are excreted in urine. Natural forms of the vitamin from food sources aren’t likely to cause a problem, but large amounts of pre-formed vitamin A from supplements can cause headaches, along with dizziness, nausea, coma and death.

The daily value for vitamin A is 5,000 IU, and it’s easy to get this amount from a daily diet rich in fruits, vegetables and protein. If you add a supplement, you may go over — or way over — the DV. The upper tolerable intake — the amount at which serious side effects may occur — is 10,000 IU. If you’re taking a vitamin A supplement, check the label and speak with your doctor about whether excess vitamin A could be causing your headaches.

Read more: The 12 Most Overrated Supplements

Too Much Vitamin C

Taking megadoses of vitamin C is fairly common — especially during cold and flu season. Although vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin and excess is excreted in urine, very large doses can result in unabsorbed vitamin in the intestinal tract. Possible side effects of this residual vitamin C include headache, along with nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps and heartburn. The daily recommendation for vitamin C from food and supplements is 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men. Taking more than 2,000 mg per day — the upper tolerable limit — could lead to undesirable effects.

Interactions With Medications and Supplements

Another cause of your headache after taking vitamins could be interactions with medications you’re taking or the effects of vitamin supplements on the absorption of other nutrients. For example, the National Institutes of Health reports that very large amounts of vitamin C can inhibit the absorption of vitamin B12. According to the National Headache Institute, B vitamins, including B12, lower the amount of the amino acid homocysteine, high levels of which can lead to headaches.

Low levels of vitamin D can also cause headaches. Certain medications, including carbamazepine, phenytoin, primidone, barbiturates and some HIV treatments can interfere with vitamin D, potentially leading to a deficiency. The best thing to do is make an appointment with your doctor to go over any supplements you’re taking and any medications you’re on to determine whether an interaction could be at the root of your problem.

Read more: What You Really Need to Know About Supplements

What Vitamin Deficiencies Can Cause Headaches?

We all know vitamins are important. But there are so many of them, from so many sources, it can be hard to keep track. How can you use vitamins to help headache symptoms?

Can vitamin deficiencies cause headaches? The answer is yes

Vitamins are natural compounds the body needs to function. Humans mostly get vitamins from the food they eat. Some may be synthesized in other ways – through sun exposure or other natural processes, for example.

Even if you take multivitamins every day, it’s still important to make sure that you are getting all the vitamins you need. Do you have new headaches? Are the headaches you commonly have getting worse? Vitamin deficiency could be why.

Three main deficiencies contribute to headaches:

1) B vitamins, including B6 and B12

If you suffer from frequent headaches, an amino acid called homocysteine could be partially to blame. This compound is produced naturally within the body. High levels of it can cause many problems – one of the most common of which is headaches.

Vitamin B can reduce homocysteine levels and stave off associated headaches.

Vitamins in the B family come from a wide range of protein-rich foods, especially meats. They can be found in beef, chicken, fish, pork and eggs. For those who wish to avoid meat, soybeans can be a suitable substitute.

2) Vitamin E

Many women suffer from migraines in conjunction with other menstrual symptoms. Vitamin E is important in combating “menstrual migraines” by reducing the amount of arachidonic acid in the body. This acid later gets converted into an agent associated with menstrual migraines.

Sunflower seeds, almonds and spinach all contain large quantities of this vitamin. Enhancing your intake in the week before and during menstruation can curb many symptoms. In studies, women with high levels of vitamin E experienced less pain and lower sensory sensitivity.

3) Vitamin D

When it comes to causes of headaches, vitamin D deficiency is near the top. In fact, headache is among the most common symptoms of vitamin D deficiency. Other symptoms include sleep disturbances and disorders. Lack of sleep, in itself, can make headaches worse.

You can stock up on vitamin D with salmon, mackerel and mushrooms.

Houston Headache Institute

Nutritious eating can help headache symptoms enormously. Still, professional treatment is the best way for most people to obtain lasting results.  Visit the Houston Headache Institute to identify your vitamin deficiency and how to treat it permanently.

Deficiencies That Could Be Causing Headaches

• Diet and lifestyle factors contribute to deficiencies that may cause headaches.
• Vitamin D deficiency may contribute to the frequency and intensity of headaches.
• Choosing food high in certain vitamins and supplementing when needed can help decrease headaches.

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When you’re dealing with a pounding headache, finding relief is typically the first thing on your mind. Unfortunately, the methods we use to crush the pain are often temporary, leaving us waiting for the next headache to strike.

One way to get ahead of the pain is to examine your diet and lifestyle and see if there are any obvious signs of deficiencies. INSIDER talked with several experts to uncover what may be contributing to the frequency and severity of your headaches.

A vitamin D deficiency is linked to an increase in headache frequency

Vitamin D is actually a hormone produced by the kidneys. Most of us get our intake of vitamin D through food, supplements, or being outdoors and soaking up the sun. But if any of those methods are lacking, you may find an increase in headache frequency and intensity.

That’s because vitamin D deficiencies are related to a larger number of monthly days with headaches. However, Dr. Clare Morrison of MedExpress told INSIDER that it’s important not to overdose on vitamin D, as excessive intake can also cause health problems.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends 600 IU (International Units) of vitamin D for adults ages 19 to 70. Adults 71 and older need 800 IU’s. Good sources of vitamin D include sunlight (but make sure to limit exposure to avoid increased risk of skin cancer), supplements, fatty fish, and foods fortified with vitamin D such as dairy products, orange juice, and cereals.

Read more: How to get enough vitamin D without the sun

A magnesium deficiency can contribute to headaches

Magnesium helps the body regulate nerve and muscle function, maintain blood sugar levels, and regulate blood pressure. Dr. Sara Crystal, MD, Neurologist and Headache Specialist, and Cove medical advisor, told INSIDER there is good evidence that

magnesium

deficiency can contribute to migraines. That’s why she said many people find magnesium supplements helpful in treating these symptoms.

Since magnesium is considered a natural “relaxer” of the muscle and nervous system, Morrison said it’s not surprising that a lack of this mineral causes muscle tension, cramps, insomnia and widespread pain, including headaches. Good food sources include legumes, nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables, fortified foods like breakfast cereal, milk, and yogurt.

Dehydration could be the culprit when it comes to your headaches

The cure could be as simple as drinking more water.

iStock

We’re surrounded by drinking water, yet many of us don’t get enough of this important fluid during the day. And some people don’t drink any fluids for hours and hours, which registered dietician Julie Stefanski MEd, CSSD, LDN, CDE told INSIDER can be a contributing factor in headaches.

“If you fall in this category, consider setting the alarm on your phone or computer to cue you to drink,” recommended Stefanski. She said to focus on drinking eight ounces of water several times per day. “Everyone has different fluid needs, but you should aim for at least 64 ounces of fluid as an adult,” she explained.

Read more: 11 signs of dehydration you might be missing

A deficiency in vitamin B2 has been linked to migraine headaches

Although all of the B vitamins play a role in protecting you from headaches, vitamin B2 (also known as Riboflavin) seems to stand out the most.

Dr. Kelcie Harris, ND told INSIDER that vitamin B2 could help counter a deficiency of mitochondrial energy metabolism, which has been linked to migraine headaches.

“Eating foods high in vitamin B2 or supplementing with a quality vitamin may help improve mitochondrial energy metabolism and therefore, decrease the incidence of migraine headaches,” she explained.

The recommended intake of B2, according to the NIH, is 1.3mg for males and 1.1mg for females ages 19 and up. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, the recommended daily allowance is 1.4mg for pregnancy and 1.6mg for lactation. You can find B2 in foods like eggs, kidney, liver, lean meats, milk, green vegetables, and fortified grains and cereals. Higher doses may be recommended if you suffer from migraine headaches.

In fact, all the B vitamins are important for preventing headaches

B vitamins play a crucial role in maintaining the nervous system.

Anthony Hall/Shutterstock

“All of the vitamins in the B complex, including folic acid, are beneficial for the nervous system, as they help reduce levels of homocysteine,” explained Morrison. She said too much homocysteine could cause migraines.

Since each B vitamin has its own recommended daily intake, referencing these lists from the NIH will help you determine your individual needs., B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12  Biotin, and Folate.

However, as with any nutritional supplement, it is important not to take excessive doses.

A sodium deficiency can cause headaches

If you sweat a lot during exercise or other strenuous physical activity, you may be dealing with a lack of salt, which Morrison said can cause headaches.

The good news is you can easily manage this by eating something salty or drinking electrolyte containing beverages. Salt deficiency can also be caused by taking long-term diuretics and by certain medical conditions.

Visit INSIDER’s homepage for more.

4 Nutrient Deficiencies that Could be Causing your Headaches

March 13, 2019

“Oh, my head is pounding.”

We have all muddled through days when a headache gets in the way of what may have been planned. Before you grab that over-the-counter remedy to silence the drum banging in your head, experts say there could be several deficiencies that are contributing to your headache.

Dehydration

Water, water everywhere, but yet if we fail to drink enough it can spark a headache. According to the National Headache Foundation, even mild dehydration can cause a dehydration headache or even a migraine. Since it’s often not clear what is causing a headache, drinking a full glass of water and continuing to sip more fluids during the day is a simple way to ease the pain.

Magnesium Deficiency

Neurologist Dr. Joshua Daniel of Shore Physicians Group said many migraine headache sufferers are found to be deficient in magnesium when they have blood work done. He instructs patients to take magnesium not only to prevent the onset of future migraines because it stops the transmission of pain but also because there are no side effects. Magnesium is affordable and available over the counter, according to the physician.

Magnesium is abundant in the body but for some, it is not absorbed readily. It can be a genetic deficiency that keeps a body from absorbing sufficient magnesium or it could be inherited renal magnesium wasting where the magnesium is lost through the kidneys, excretion of excessive amounts of magnesium, stress, low nutritional intake or several other factors, according to information provided by the National Institute of Health.

Dr. Daniel said he includes magnesium with the IV fusion therapy to treat migraines that has proven to be very helpful with patients. He added that it is safe and has no contraindications for patients.

Fight Deficiency with Diet

Low levels of magnesium may contribute to migraines, according to Chris Kozmor, RN, M. Ed., director of the Shore Medical Center Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center. Kozmor suggests including plenty of magnesium-rich foods like spinach, avocado and almonds into a well-rounded diet to keep those headaches at bay.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Why does that sun (in moderation) feel good on your skin? While it warms you on a chilly day, it is also supplying vitamin D to your body. Most of us get an ample supply through our diets with fatty fish and dairy products, orange juice and cereals, and just by being outside. Vitamin D deficiency can cause a number of side effects, but recent studies have also shown a possible link between the deficiency and headaches. On the flip side, too much vitamin D can have its own problems. Follow the recommended daily allowance for vitamin D according to age to help cut down on the frequency of headaches. The National Institutes of Health recommends 600 IU of vitamin D for adults ages 19 to 70. Adults 71 and older need 800 IU.

Vitamin B2 Deficiency

The B vitamins help to protect from headaches, according to the National Headache Foundation, but it is B2 (riboflavin) that really stands out and where a deficiency may lead to headaches. Eating foods high in vitamin B2 or supplementing with a quality vitamin may help improve energy metabolism and decrease the incidence of migraine headaches. Foods high in B2 include eggs, lean meats, green vegetables along with fortified grains and cereals. The NIH recommends 1.3 mg for males and 1.1 mg for females.

Each of the B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, biotin, and folic acid) have a recommended daily allowance according to the National Institute of Health.  https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheet 

Vitamin Deficiencies the Secret Cause of Migraines?

Many different factors can cause migraines. From TMJ and bruxism to hormone imbalances, there’s not one simple cause. A new theory suggests that certain vitamin deficiencies cause migraines. It’s not uncommon for vitamin deficiencies to affect certain areas of the body. Based on studies, learn if a vitamin deficiency causes your migraines.

Can Vitamin Deficiency Cause Migraines?

It seems like such a simple answer, but it’s what researchers suggested when they presented their data to the 58th Annual Scientific of the American Headache Society. They have proposed that vitamin supplements might be the secret to preventing and treating migraines.

To support their theory, researchers drew from nutrient measurements taken from the blood of young adults, teens, and children seeking treatment for headaches. Researchers looked at four key nutrients: vitamin D, riboflavin (vitamin B-2), folate (B-9), and CoQ10, an antioxidant that is vital to cell function.

Researchers found that nutrient deficiencies were common for those with migraines. They discovered that all four vitamins showed deficiencies. More than two-thirds of those tested (68%) showed low vitamin D. About 15% of teens had riboflavin levels below the recommended, and 40% were at levels where doctors recommend supplementation. Nearly two-thirds (64%) tested low for folate, and 30% tested below the lower reference limit for CoQ10.

Although these may seem like promising connections, there are many reasons why we wouldn’t want to take this research too seriously yet.

Preliminary Research

Most importantly, we have to remember that this study hasn’t passed peer review yet. When researchers present at a scientific conference, it is nothing more than an interesting observation. The only assumption is that it showcases reliable data and performs basic analytics.

However, many potential errors may exist in the research. For example, we don’t know in this study whether the low vitamin levels are statistically significant. We’re also not sure that researchers didn’t select a population that might be expected to have low nutrient levels.

For this reason, we need to wait before we put too much faith in these results.

Deviations Not That Extreme

We also need to remember that although the above levels of nutrient shortage sound significant on their own, they have to be taken into context with the general existence of low nutrient levels in the overall population. Various studies have indicated that the 40% low riboflavin levels cited in this study are likely comparable to the population at large.

And for vitamin D, the levels may be likely below the national average. Some research suggests that up to 77% of Americans have low vitamin D levels, so it shouldn’t seem significant that 68% of people with headaches were found to have low vitamin D.

Previous Research Disputes Vitamin Ties

Most importantly, we need to remember that this is not the first time researchers have looked at vitamin levels as a possible cause or contributor to migraines. There’s been enough research done on vitamin D for people to conclude that there is no link between the nutrient and migraines. There is little support for other nutrients cited in this stud, as well.

Overall, this leads us to conclude that vitamin deficiency can’t be a major contributor to migraines for many people.

Try Taking Vitamins for Migraines

It doesn’t hurt to rule out if your vitamin deficiency causes your migraines. If you visit your regular physician and you learn that you have a vitamin deficiency, they will likely recommend you take a vitamin supplement. Whether you take vitamin B for migraines or vitamin B complex for migraines, it might make improvements. After taking the supplement for a few weeks, take notice if your migraine frequency has improved. If your migraines completely go away, it’s safe to say that was the cause. If they don’t go away, there is likely a different cause of migraines. In that case, you should continue to search for the cause of your migraines.

One Part of a Complex Puzzle

All of this is not to say that vitamins don’t have a role to play in your migraines. Migraines are a complex condition that likely has many contributing factors. Doctors should explore all possibilities including nutrient deficiencies to try to ease the burden of migraines.

One important contributing cause that many people overlook is temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), which can cause muscle tension and nerve pressure that contribute to the frequency and intensity of migraines. Unfortunately taking vitamins for TMJ won’t treat you. You will need TMJ treatment instead. It can help many people who aren’t getting good results from their current migraine therapy.

Want to learn whether TMJ treatment can help with your migraines in Rochester, NY? Please call (585) 244-3337 for an appointment with a TMJ dentist at Contemporary Dentistry.

Can You Overdose on Vitamins?

Surely you have heard the saying, “too much of a good thing can become a bad thing.” The same applies to vitamin supplements, as taking an excess of vitamins can be harmful to your health. This may seem contradictory because vitamins are often encouraged to supplement nutrients that may be lacking in our diets. Physicians or nutritionists may suggest vitamins once it is confirmed that you have a nutrient deficiency and highly advise that the daily recommended doses are followed.

The Institute of Medicine has established guidelines such as the RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) and DV (Daily Value) to help people understand the daily suggested dose of vitamins.

Vitamin overdose occurs when a person ingests far more than the daily recommendation, for an extended period of time. Although the body can excrete excessive amounts of water-soluble vitamins such as vitamin C, it can retain fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin A, which can be toxic.

Here are a few vitamins that are proven to be toxic if taken in excess, as well as their symptoms of overdose:

• Iron- Nausea, bloody stools, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, fluid build-up in the lungs and fever.
• Vitamin A-Hair loss, liver damage, severe headaches, bone pain, blurred vision, dry skin and vomiting
• Vitamin D- Abnormal heart rhythm, constipation, frequent urination, muscle weakness and confusion.
• Vitamin E- Interferes with the body’s ability to clot blood, which can be harmful for those on blood thinning medication
• B Vitamins-B6 in excess can cause nerve damage; while B3 can cause jaundice, elevated liver enzyme levels and nausea.

If you have decided to purchase vitamins, always follow the daily recommended dose to avoid excessive intake. Before purchasing it is recommended that you consult a physician or nutritionist to receive an assessment.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

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Can Vitamin D Cure Headaches?

In today’s fast paced world, headaches almost seem like an unavoidable byproduct – we’ve all experienced a bad headache or two in our lives, if not more frequently. Some individuals even suffer from a more severe form called migraines. There are numerous kinds of headaches and all can be linked to various reasons or a combination of causes: stress, diet, alcohol and/or food consumption, illness, genetics, and a variety of other reasons. Vitamin D is mostly thought of as needed to build strong bones. But what if Vitamin D is also the answer to the pain in your head? Can Vitamin D cure headaches?

Can Vitamin D Cure Headaches?

Headaches physically occur due to the muscles, nerves, or circulatory system around the neck and head, and neurotransmitters in the brain (or a mix of these).  While stress and tension headaches are the most common type, another regularly overlooked culprit is vitamin D deficiency. According to Livestrong, low vitamin D has been linked to headaches and correlated with migraines as well. While many over the counter and prescription medications are made to help relieve headache symptoms, their effectiveness is not long term if you are suffering from vitamin D deficiency. You’re probably wondering then: do I have vitamin D deficiency and can vitamin D cure headaches?

What is Vitamin D Deficiency?

If you have been experiencing headaches, you may now be asking yourself: are your headaches due to low vitamin D? Vitamin D is needed by the body to absorb calcium, necessary for things like bone growth. It is also helps the immune system function properly, fights illness, aids weight loss, and helps combat depression. Vitamin D deficiency is the lack of this particular nutrient in the body. There are many risk factors for vitamin D deficiency such as:

• A lack of sunlight, which is crucial to obtaining this vitamin.
• Dietary issues, such as allergies to foods that contain vitamin D.
• Individuals with dark skin, as melanin (or pigmentation) inhibits the production of vitamin D.
• Obesity, which does not allow vitamin D to circulate properly.
• Malfunctioning kidneys, which otherwise are needed for the output of vitamin D in the body.

Additionally, older people tend to be more at risk than most. In fact, it is estimated that over 90% of seniors have vitamin D deficiency. This is due to their inability to produce ample amounts of vitamin D in the skin, and the reduced exposure to the sun as a result of their increased time indoors. 

Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency has many symptoms, which often go undetected or are thought to be related to another illness. Symptoms vary for each patient, depending on the severity of their deficiency. Common symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency include joint pain, weak or cramping muscles, frequent bone fractures, weight gain, moodiness, fatigue, depression and headaches.

Vitamin D deficiency can lead to serious long term problems if it is not addressed. Bone diseases can develop due to the lack of calcium, some of these include osteomalacia, osteoporosis and rickets. Teeth can become more susceptible to cavities. Autoimmune disorders may also develop due to the immune system’s reliance upon the vitamin. If you feel you Vitamin D deficient, get a Vitamin D test and find out!

How to Manage Vitamin D Deficiency

If you believe you are suffering from Vitamin D deficiency, increasing your levels of Vitamin D can be done at home, naturally. People can increase their sun exposure by simply partaking in outdoor activities, keeping in mind that too much sun can also can cause harm if sunburned. Additionally, Vitamin D supplements are available over the counter and are relatively inexpensive. Another way to get the proper level of Vitamin D is through certain foods. But which ones? Foods that have a good source of Vitamin D include:

• Salmon
• Mackerel
• Tuna
• Sardines
• Caviar
• Raw milk
• Yogurt
• Cod liver oil
• Tofu
• Pork
• Orange juice
• Cereal
• Mushrooms
• Eggs

As always, natural methods are always the safest for treating a deficiency. Consult with a doctor to learn more ways Vitamin D can reduce headaches and benefit the rest of your body. And if your regular pain medication isn’t doing the trick, take some Vitamin D or eat some of the food above. Because the answer to the question of can Vitamin D cure headaches is yes, sometimes.

90,000 Lack of these vitamins provokes headaches ᐉ Narodnaya Pravda

Headaches are companions of many diseases. But there is one kind of headache, unbearable and exhausting. It’s a migraine. It is familiar to every 6th inhabitant of the planet. Typically, migraine pain is localized in one hemisphere of the brain. More often migraines are observed in emotional people with reduced resistance to stress.

This is reported by the FOLK TRUTH with reference to Healthy Style.

Causes of headache

The predisposition to migraine is due to heredity, gender (women are more susceptible to it), wrong way of life, psycho-emotional background. Age also matters: doctors observe migraines more often in young people, starting from adolescence, and by old age the disease fades away.

Nutrition plays a huge role in the occurrence of migraine attacks. It has been proven that a deficiency of a number of elements in the body is capable of provoking severe headaches 4 times more often. We have identified 4 groups of substances, the lack of which contributes to the occurrence of migraines.

Folic acid and vitamin B12

People who do not have enough of these substances are prone to excessive irritability and absent-mindedness.They are also more prone to stress. Interestingly, we often try to relieve headaches with drugs that contain aspirin. And this substance just reduces the content of folic acid and vitamin B12 in the body.

Spinach is a champion in the content of folic acid, broccoli, asparagus, avocado, beets, carrots, pumpkin are also rich in it. Vitamin B12 is found in abundance in chicken eggs.

Copper and iron

Deficiency of copper and iron is more common in women and leads a direct road to anemia, hypotension, migraines and depression.Beans, nuts, goat cheese, avocados are rich in copper … And by regularly consuming greens, lettuce, seeds, sesame seeds, liver and seaweed, you will replenish your iron stores.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) deficiency is one of the main factors in the onset of vascular diseases. It is abundant in beans, liver, fresh vegetables, as well as cereals. Lean on these foods if you want to keep your brain, nerves, heart and blood vessels healthy.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is produced naturally in our body under the sun’s rays.And in winter, it can be obtained from food. Eggs, beans, liver, seafood, dairy products are abundant in this important metabolic element.

Adequate nutrition, sports, walks in the fresh air can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines. And aromatheramia will help relieve stress and calm down.

Recall that the cold season often provokes depression and headaches. Doctors have named effective ways to beat headaches without medication.

Earlier it was also reported that severe headaches are associated with a lack of oxygen.

You can also learn about several effective ways to help quickly get rid of a headache. Healthy sleep, good nutrition, moderate physical activity and breaks from work, a walk in the air and pain relievers can bring a person back to their normal life effortlessly.

Why are multivitamins dangerous?

Manufacturers declare: multivitamins will help to cope with the blues, not to get sick with ARVI and generally “strengthen the immune system.” During a pandemic, this is especially true, because people are looking for any way to support the body. But are multivitamins really good for you? Do I need to get tested before taking the pills? And in what cases does everyone’s favorite vitamin D break children’s sleep, and vitamin A leads to lung cancer? Let’s figure it out together with the experts.

• Multivitamins can cause side effects and lead to overdose.
• Doctors have no consensus on whether to drink multivitamin complexes for prophylaxis.
• Evidence-based medicine: strengthening immunity with vitamins is a myth.

“Talk about multivitamins in our country has an unfair presupposition of knowingly beneficial, or at least harmless. “Drink some vitamins” sounds like a good friendly parting word, while “drink antidepressants” or “ping steroids” sounds like an evil mockery. Meanwhile, both, and the other, and the third – the essence of drugs that have their indications, contraindications and side effects “, – warns pediatrician Sergei Butriy .

Overdose

One of the main dangers of vitamins is possible overdose. Sergey Butriy gave examples:

1. Vitamin D is the most studied vitamin, its benefits are the most proven, it is taken from the first days of life. It is also the most toxic vitamin: with prolonged overdose, it can cause irreversible kidney damage and other life-threatening complications.
2. Multivitamins contain iron , which is highly toxic in overdose.
3. An overdose of vitamin A can cause nausea, vision problems, hair loss, and dysfunction of several organs.
4. Excessive intake of zinc can reduce immunity, lead to sores in the throat and mouth.

Usually, hypervitaminosis appears as a result of an overdose of fat-soluble vitamins – A, D, E and K.

However, Oksana Vydrya, a nutritionist at the UGMK-Health clinic notes that multivitamins are preventive vitamin complexes.There will be no overdose from them if you take them according to the instructions.

It is important to read the instructions and dosages carefully at all times. For example, on Western sites, including iHerb, there is a key concept – Serving size (one-time portion). For some drugs, for example, vitamin D, these are 8 drops (they contain 400 IU of the drug – the prophylactic daily dose recommended there for children), and for others 1 drop (the same 400 IU).

“If a mother buys an American drug and wants to give the Russian norm for children 1000 IU per day, then she will have to give 20 drops a day.When this drug runs out, she will go to a Russian pharmacy, buy a Russian vitamin D drug, and out of habit can continue to give 20 drops a day. But the drugs in Russian pharmacies all contain 500 IU per drop, that is, they are given in a dose of 2 drops per day. 20 drops is an excess of 10 times. If given this way for 2-3 months in a row, then vitamin D poisoning is guaranteed, ”says Sergei Butriy.

Side effects

Frequent side effects from taking multivitamin complexes:

• diarrhea or constipation,
• nausea and vomiting.

Less commonly, they can cause or worsen headaches, nosebleeds or insomnia.

“Mothers of babies notice this best of all: many people note that the baby is anxious and sleep disturbed when taking vitamin D. Many even have to stop taking it and come to me with anxiety – how then can rickets be prevented? In this case, I recommend changing the manufacturer and taking at least lower doses, but not giving up completely, ”said Sergei Butriy.

Nutritionist Oksana Vydrya drew attention to the fact that additional substances are used in the production of multivitamin complexes.It is they, and not the vitamins themselves, that can cause an allergic reaction. Therefore, before you start taking vitamins, you need to study the composition of the complex, pay attention to excipients, flavors, flavors and dyes.

Many multivitamin complexes can be contraindicated in pregnant women, people with chronic diseases, taking drug therapy.

Diseases

In pregnant women, an excess of vitamin D can cause fetal pathology and bone disease in newborns.

Vitamin A should not be taken by smoking men – it can cause lung cancer, pointed out allergist-immunologist Olesya Ivanova .

To buy or not to buy

Today, doctors disagree on whether it is worth drinking multivitamin complexes for prevention.

• According to immunologist Olesya Ivanova, it is better not to drink multivitamins, since it is not clear which vitamin is lacking in a particular person and which vitamin is in excess. For the immune system to function adequately, it really does need a normal level of iron and vitamin D.
• Evidence-based medicine popularizer Sergei Butriy advises not to buy multivitamins without a doctor’s prescription at all.

“In practice, I rarely have to resort to multivitamins. From the group of vitamins and nutritional supplements, I prescribe vitamin D in a prophylactic dose of 1000 IU per day to all children under 3-7 years old (it is possible longer, but there is little evidence of benefit), I often prescribe iron preparations, sometimes I prescribe zinc preparations (for prolonged diarrhea, for example ), occasionally vitamin A, calcium and folic acid. “

Multivitamins Butriy prescribes to children with extremely selective eating behavior (these are usually children with autism or other developmental disabilities who can eat 4-7 foods for years, refusing to even try anything else) due to the gross asymmetry of the vitamins and micro / macro elements received food. “And even then I am afraid of an overdose of dietary supplements a little more than their deficit in the diet,” the pediatrician said.

• Nutritionist Oksana Vydrya believes that our body is adapted to assimilate a mixture of vitamins, which means that you can safely buy multivitamins.“Multivitamin complexes ensure the completeness of the diet and prevent vitamin deficiencies,” she says.

Vitamins and immunity

Another holivar question: do vitamins really help to strengthen the immune system. On this, the doctors also did not fully agree.

“This is a myth,” Sergei Butriy is sure. – Immunity cannot be strengthened in any way. When it is suppressed due to a serious illness, it can be supported by some very aggressive measures, for example, in case of true immunodeficiency.You can suppress it when it behaves inappropriately (for example, in autoimmune diseases). But “to strengthen” the immune system in the sense in which parents usually imagine – they say that a generally healthy child often gets sick with harmless snot in the garden, and parents want to make it sick less often – there is absolutely nothing. ”

According to Butria, there is not a single scientifically proven way to do this, except for the basic ones: a healthy diet (which is enough to get all the necessary vitamins), adequate sleep, adequate physical activity, low stress levels, good hygiene and vaccination skills.

“No, this, of course, is not a myth,” says Oksana Vydrya at the same time. “The life of a modern person is associated with chronic overwork, stress, food on the go (often of poor quality), diets, and all this leads to a lack of vitamins (hypovitaminosis), one of the manifestations of which may be a decrease in immunity.”

Total

You can buy those vitamins (complexes or monocomponent preparations) that the doctor prescribed.

Before taking vitamins, you need to pass tests to determine the deficiency.

Evidence-based medicine doctors say that all the vitamins we need come from healthy foods.

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B vitamins in clinical practice

This section is only for specialists in the field of medicine, pharmacy and healthcare!

T.E. Morozova , MD, DSc, Professor, O.S. Durnetsova , Candidate of Medical Sciences, First Moscow State Medical University.THEM. Sechenov

The article discusses the role of B vitamins in the treatment of neurological diseases. The results of research and the experience of using the combined drug Neuromultivit are highlighted.

Vitamins play an important role in the normal functioning of the body, as well as in the pathogenesis of certain diseases, many of which are irreplaceable participants in various metabolic processes. They are necessary for normal cellular metabolism and tissue trophism, normal performance and maintenance of vital body functions.A variety of reasons lead to vitamin deficiency, such as diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to malabsorption, malnutrition, alcoholism, metabolic disorders, etc. Currently, more than 30 vitamins and vitamin-like substances are known. Most of them are coenzymes of various enzymes and are involved in the regulation of carbohydrate, protein, fat and mineral metabolism, in maintaining the cellular structure, and the body’s resistance to unfavorable environmental factors [1].

Vitamins are divided into fat-soluble (vitamins A, D, E and K) and water-soluble (B vitamins and vitamin C). The absence of any of them leads to insufficient formation in the body of certain vital enzymes and, as a consequence, to a specific metabolic disorder. Thus, it is well known that retinol (vitamin A) plays an important role in the processes of growth, reproduction, as well as visual function; vitamin K is necessary for the synthesis of coagulation factors II, VII, IX and X in the liver and has antihemorrhagic properties; vitamin D regulates bone mineralization, increases the permeability of the intestinal epithelium for calcium and phosphates, B vitamins are neurotropic and are used in diseases of the nervous system, etc. [2].

Clinical symptoms and manifestations of hypovitaminosis are diverse and can affect various organs and systems ( table. 1 ). Since most vitamins in the body are not synthesized, and it is impossible to make up for their deficiency using only food, vitamin medicines are of great importance. They are widely used for prophylaxis and as part of complex therapy for diseases of various human organs and systems [1]. At present, vitamin complexes are increasingly used to correct functional states and increase the reserve capacity of a person in various clinical situations [3].

Table 1. Clinical manifestations and symptoms of hypovitaminosis

In this review, we will dwell in more detail on the pharmacological aspects and clinical possibilities of using B vitamins.

B vitamins

B vitamins occupy an important place in clinical practice. They are used in various fields of medicine in various categories of patients, but they are most widely used in the treatment of diseases of the peripheral and central nervous system. B vitamins are considered neurotropic because they are essential for the normal functioning of the central and peripheral nervous system.

B vitamins have a metabolic effect on axonal transport and myelination processes in peripheral nerve fibers.Among all the B vitamins, these properties are most inherent in three of them – thiamine (B1), pyridoxine (B6) and cyanocobalamin (B12). The effect of B vitamins, primarily thiamine, on the central nervous system is mediated through the metabolism of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and serotonin, which also provides an analgesic effect that manifests itself when used in high doses. The main physiological effects are summarized in Table [4-6].

Table 2.Physiological effects of B vitamins

It should be emphasized that vitamin B1 (thiamine) is necessary for the oxidative decarboxylation of keto acids (pyruvic and lactic), the synthesis of acetylcholine, it participates in carbohydrate metabolism and associated energy, fat, protein, water-salt metabolism, has a regulating effect on trophism and the activity of the nervous system.With an insufficient intake of thiamine, pyruvic and lactic acids accumulate in the tissues, the synthesis of acetylcholine is disrupted, as a result of which the functions of a number of systems, primarily the nervous, cardiovascular and digestive systems, deteriorate. Thiamine optimizes cognitive activity and brain function. It has positive effects on energy levels, growth, normal appetite, learning ability and is essential for muscle tone in the digestive tract, stomach and heart. Thiamine acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body from the damaging effects of aging, alcohol and tobacco.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is involved in the synthesis of a number of neurotransmitters. In phosphorylated form, it provides the processes of decarboxylation, transamination, deamination of amino acids, participates in the synthesis of protein, enzymes, hemoglobin, prostaglandins, metabolism of serotonin, catecholamines, glutamic acid, GABA, histamine, improves the use of unsaturated fatty acids, lowers cholesterol and lipids in the blood, improves myocardial contractility, promotes the conversion of folic acid into its active form, stimulates hematopoiesis.

The most important property of vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) is its participation in hematopoiesis and erythropoiesis (prevention of neuroanemic syndrome) and activation of the blood coagulation system. In addition, like two other B vitamins, it is involved in the synthesis / restoration of the myelin sheath and has an analgesic effect in neurogenic pain syndrome (reduces the synthesis of glutamate in the central nervous system).

Each of the listed vitamins can be used as monotherapy, but the combination of B vitamins (B1, B6, B12) has a more pronounced effect, since B vitamins can complement each other’s effects in the biochemical processes of the nervous tissue [7, 8].

An extensive area of ​​application of preparations containing B vitamins is various pain syndromes. There is extensive experience in their use in cases of both nocioceptive and mixed pain of moderate and low intensity, in the treatment of neuropathic pain, as a preventive treatment after relieving exacerbation of chronic pain, with polyneuropathies of various origins. High doses of B vitamins have a positive effect on nerve regeneration, which justifies their use in the relief of acute pain syndrome and for the prevention of chronic exacerbations [7, 9].

The optimal route of administration of B vitamins is oral. The use of parenteral forms can be complicated by the development of infiltrates, inflammatory reactions at the injection site.

One of the preparations for oral administration containing a combination of the 3 above B vitamins in high doses is Neuromultivitis (Lannacher, Austria), which is widely used in the practice of neurologists and endocrinologists. It contains 3 B vitamins in therapeutic doses (100 mg of thiamine hydrochloride, 200 mg of pyridoxine hydrochloride and 200 μg of cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12).The absence of unwanted interactions between the components determines the overall good bioavailability of the drug.
The components of the drug Neuromultivit are water-soluble vitamins, which excludes the possibility of their accumulation in the body. Thiamine and pyridoxine are absorbed in the upper intestine, the degree of absorption depends on their dose. The absorption of cyanocobalamin is largely determined by the presence of an intrinsic factor in the stomach and upper intestine; further delivery of cyanocobalamin to the tissue is carried out by the transport protein transcobalamin II.Thiamine, pyridoxine and cyanocobalamin are metabolized in the liver. Thiamine and pyridoxine are excreted by the kidneys (about 8-10% unchanged). In case of an overdose, the excretion of thiamine and pyridoxine through the intestines is significantly increased. Cyanocobalamin is excreted mainly in the bile, the degree of excretion by the kidneys is variable – from 6 to 30% [1, 3].

The use of B vitamins in neurological practice

As already noted, B vitamins are neurotropic substances. Due to their active participation in biochemical processes that ensure the normal functioning of the structures of the nervous system, they are used in diabetic polyneuropathy, in the treatment of pain syndromes.Combined preparations of B vitamins are also used for the complex therapy of pain syndromes [10].

In the practice of a physician of almost any specialty, patients with dorsalgia, or, in other words, with pain syndrome (BS) in the back, are often encountered, the proportion of which is growing. The frequency of occurrence of BS is quite high. Epidemiological studies have shown that, on average, 60-70% of the population have experienced acute back pain at least once in their life, and in a third, the nature of the pain changes and becomes chronic.Often, pain syndrome occurs at a young age and subsequently accompanies the patient throughout his life. At the same time, among painful neurological syndromes of nociceptive genesis caused by damage to the muscular system, myofascial pains have come to one of the first places in recent years [11].

The quality of life of these patients largely depends on timely, correctly selected and adequate pharmacotherapy. Inadequate treatment often leads to chronic pain syndrome.It is no secret that a large number of patients are also self-medicating, trying to reduce the severity of pain by taking painkillers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Another possible cause of pain syndrome is various polyneuropathies. Among all types of neuropathies, diabetic polyneuropathy firmly occupies the first place, significantly ahead of other types of neuropathies (alcoholic, mixed genesis, inflammatory, toxic, etc.).and the proportion of such patients is very high in general clinical practice [12].

The tactics of managing patients with pain syndrome involves the use of non-drug and drug treatment methods, the main purpose of which is to relieve pain syndrome or, at least, to reduce its severity. Also, therapy is aimed at treating the main pathological process that led to the formation of pain syndrome, at improving the patient’s quality of life.

During the period of exacerbation, it is necessary to observe a gentle regimen of physical activity, limiting loads.Physiotherapy, manual therapy, acupuncture, physical activity aimed at strengthening the muscle corset, stretching certain muscles or muscle groups are used. Non-drug recommendations also include recommendations for changing the patient’s habits, forming his “correct” skills, teaching muscle relaxation techniques, correcting posture, teaching methods of lifting weights, performing certain types of physical activity.

For the pharmacotherapy of acute and chronic pain syndrome, it is possible to use various classes of drugs, which include vitamins of group B, both in monotherapy and in combination with each other ( tab.3 ):
– NSAIDs,
– B vitamins,
– muscle relaxants,
– chondroprotectors,
– antidepressants,
– anticonvulsants,
– selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs),
– local anesthetic blockade (in severe cases),
– narcotic analgesics [11].

Table 3. Differentiated approach to pain therapy

The pathogenetic foundations of the choice of drugs for the treatment of pain syndrome are based on knowledge, on the one hand, of the main pathophysiological mechanisms of its formation, and on the other, the mechanisms of action of drugs.

Since back pain is often mixed with the participation of nociceptive and neuropathic components, it is advisable to prescribe both NSAIDs, which to a greater extent affect the nociceptive component, and B vitamins, which have an effect on the neuropathic component.

It is known that with various pain syndromes, B vitamins are often used to relieve it, which can have their own analgesic effect, and also enhance the analgesic effect of NSAIDs.Numerous studies have shown that under the influence of B vitamins in patients with acute back pain, clinical improvement occurs.

The analgesic effect of B vitamins has been known in medicine for a long time. As shown by many years of clinical experience, intramuscular administration of a combination of thiamine, pyridoxine and cyanocobalamin helps to relieve pain, normalizes reflex reactions, and reduces sensory impairment. The mechanism of this action lies primarily in the fact that inhibition of nociceptive responses occurs.The antinociceptive effect of the combined vitamin complex may be due to inhibition of synthesis and / or blocking of the action of inflammatory mediators. Clinically and in experimental models, it has been shown that co-administration with B vitamins enhances the analgesic effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, the anti-allodynic effect of gabapentin, dexamethasone and valproate in neuropathies [10].

Considering these properties of B vitamins, the main indications for the appointment of Neuromultivitis are various diseases and lesions of the nervous system with pain syndromes:

– polyneuropathy;
– neuritis; neuralgia; trigeminal neuralgia;
– radicular syndrome caused by degenerative changes in the spine; sciatica; lumbago;
– plexitis; intercostal neuralgia;
– paresis of the facial nerve.

Experience of using the combined preparation Neuromultivit

The clinical efficacy and good safety profile of Neuromultivit in various diseases have a large evidence base, including meta-analyzes [5, 13-16]. In the works of recent years, there is a fairly large number of works reflecting the experience of using the complex drug Neuromultivit in different categories of patients. Mostly these are patients with neuropathies of various origins (diabetic, alcoholic) and pain syndromes in the back (dorsalgia).

In patients with diabetes and endocrine neuropathy, positive dynamics against the background of the use of Neuromultivitis is expressed in the form of an improvement in vibration and tactile sensitivity, a decrease in pain and an increase in the quality of life of patients with DPN [14-16].

The results of a large number of studies of the drug Neuromultivit indicate a good safety profile and good tolerability of the drug by most patients. A Cochrane systematic review, which included the results of 30 studies involving 741 patients with neuropathy of alcoholic and endocrine genesis, has convincingly demonstrated the good tolerance of B vitamins in clinical trials [17-19].

In isolated cases, side effects may appear, more often associated with an overdose of the components of the drug, manifested by nausea, palpitations, sometimes skin reactions develop in the form of itching and urticaria. Overdose is possible only if extremely high doses are taken for a very long time.

There are restrictions on the use of the drug during pregnancy and lactation.

Since Neuromultivit contains therapeutic doses of vitamins, it is not recommended to combine it with other B vitamins.Clinical symptoms of an overdose of vitamins contained in Neuromultivit are possible only if the recommended doses are significantly exceeded, mainly due to vitamin B6 (if its dose is more than 2 g per day). In this case, there is a risk of developing neuropathy with ataxia and impaired sensitivity, seizures with changes in the EEG, in some cases, hypochromic anemia and seborrheic dermatitis. Treatment is symptomatic.

Questions of contraindications to the appointment of certain drugs are of great importance in the practice of any doctor.This fully applies to vitamin preparations. The practicing physician should have detailed information about who can and who should not prescribe vitamin supplements. Very often this question concerns patients with tumor processes, both benign and malignant. Research results demonstrate weak anticarcinogenic activity or the absence of any effect on tumor growth of vitamins in physiological doses [20-24]. Several studies have demonstrated the safety of taking vitamins, incl.including B vitamins in cancer patients [25-27]. Also, B vitamins can be part of complex maintenance therapy during or after chemotherapy [28].

Thus, the complex drug Neuromultivit can be recommended for use in the complex therapy of pain syndrome of various origins, with manifestations of polyneuropathy of various origins (including alcoholic and diabetic polyneuropathy) and even in some cases as part of maintenance therapy for cancer patients.It is also widely used in neurological practice in the complex therapy of patients suffering from neuritis, neuralgia, sciatica, lumbago, as well as radicular syndrome, which is caused by degenerative changes in the spine, plexitis, intercostal neuralgia, paresis of the facial nerve and trigeminal neuralgia.

Neuromultivitis can be prescribed both in complex therapy in combination with NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, various non-drug methods of therapy, enhancing their analgesic effect.Also, the drug can be used as maintenance therapy after discontinuation of NSAIDs to reduce the risk of relapse and chronicity of pain.

Literature

1. Clinical pharmacology: national guidelines. Ed. Yu.B. Belousov, V.K. Lepakhin, V.I. Petrov. M .: GEOTAR-Media, 2008. (Series “National guidelines”, ch. 37).
2. Fauci AS, Braunwald E, Isselbacher KJ. Harrison’s principles of internal medicine14th edition, 1998. Chapter 79: Vitamin deficiency and excess.P. 480-7.
3. Shikh E.V. Clinical and pharmacological aspects of the use of vitamin-
drugs in the clinic of internal diseases. Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. Vedomosti Nauch-
nogo center for expertise and state control of medicinal
funds. 2001, 1 (5): 46-52.
4. Lendinger A.L. Fundamentals of Biochemistry. Per. from English T. 1, 2, 3. M .: Mir, 1985.
5. Kozelkin A.A., Kuznetsov A.A., Medvedkova S.A. The use of neuromultivitis in neurological practice. Therapia, 2008, 11 (31): 1-5.
6. Akhmedzhanova L.T., Solokha O.A., Strokov I.A. B vitamins in the treatment of neurological diseases. RMJ, 2009, 17 (11): 776-83.
7. Strokov I.A. The use of high doses of B vitamins in neurology. I.A. Strokov, L.T. Akhmedzhanova, O. A. Solokha. Difficult Patient, 2009, 10: 17-22.
8. Becker KW, Kienecker EW, Dick P. A contribution to the scientific assessment of degenerative and regenerative processes of peripheral nerve fibers following axonotmesis under the systemic administration of vitamins B1, B6 and B12 – light and electron microscopy findings of the saphenous nerve in the rabbit.Neurochirurgia (Stuttg.) 1990,33 (4): 113-121.
9. Lutskiy I.S., Lyutikova L.V., Lutskiy E.I. B vitamins in neurological practice. Mezhdunar Nevrol Zhurn, 2008, 2: 89-93.
10. Danilov A.B. The use of B vitamins for back pain: new analgesics? RMJ, 2008, 16: 35-9.
11. Vyalov S.S. Patients with lumbar neuralgia: features of lumbar syndrome therapy. Outpatient Doctor’s Handbook, 2013, 12: 16-22.
12. Doskina E.V.Diabetic polyneuropathy and B12-deficiency states: the basics of pathogenesis, treatment and prevention. E.V. Rumyantsev. Pharmateca, 2011, 20: 1-6.
13. Zhirov I.V. Experience of using the drug Neuromultivit in alcoholic polyneuropathy. I.V. Zhirov, M.A. Fedina, A.B. Pokrovsky. New Drugs, 2002, 12: 10-18.
14. Gurevich K.G. Neuromultivitis: application in modern practice. Pharmateca, 2004, 9-10: 48-51.
15. Tokmakova A.Yu. Possibilities of using Neuromultivitis in the complex therapy of polyneuropathy in patients with diabetes mellitus.A.Yu. Tokmakova, M.B. Antsiferov. Diabetes Mellitus 2001, 11 (2): 33-35.
16. Bregovsky V.B. Application of Neuromultivitis in patients with chronic form of diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy of the lower extremities. V.B. Bregovsky, E.V. Belogurov, V.A. Kuzmina. New Drugs, 2002, 6: 7-10.
17. Ang CD, Alviar MJ, Dans AL et al. Vitamin B for treating peripheral neuropathy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2008, 16 (3).
18. Peters TJ, Kotowicz J, Nyka W et al.Treatment of alcoholic polyneuropathy with vitamin complex: a randomized controlled trial. Alcohol & Alcoholism 2006, 41 (4): 636-642.
19. Golovacheva V.A. Treatment of diabetic and alcoholic polyneuropathy: possibilities and prospects of pharmacotherapy. V.A. Golovacheva, I.A. Strings. RMJ, 2014, 16: 1193-1197.
20. Den Heijer M. Are B. Vitamins a risk factor for VTE? Perhaps. J Thromb Haemost., 2006, Feb., 4 (2): 309-11.
21. Krishnan AV, Moreno J, Nonn L et al.Novel pathways that contribute to the anti – proliferative and chemopreventive activities of calcitriol in prostate cancer. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol., 2007, Jan. 15.
22. Lajous M, Lazcano-Ponce E, Hernandez-Avila M et al Folate, vitamin B (6), and vitamin B (12) intake and the risk of breast cancer among Mexican women. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev., 2006, Mar. 15 (3): 443-448.
23. Lajous M, Romieu I, Sabia S et al. Folate, vitamin B12 and postmenopausal breast cancer in a prospective study of French women.Cancer Causes Control, 2006, Nov. 17 (9): 1209-1213.
24. Xu WH, Dai Q, Xiang YB, Zhao GM et al. Nutritional factors in relation to endometrial cancer: A report from a population – based case – control study in Shanghai, China. Int J Cancer, 2007, Jan. 17.
25. Nascimento MM, Suliman ME, Murayama Y et al. Effect of high-dose thiamine and pyridoxine on advanced glycation end products and other oxidative stress markers in hemodialysis patients: a randomized placebo-controlled study.J Ren Nutr., 2006, Apr. 16 (2): 119-124.
26. Bjelakovic G, Nikolova D, Simonetti RG, Gluud C. Antioxidant supplements for preventing gastrointestinal cancers. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2004, Oct. 18 (4): CD004183. Evid Based Nurs., 2005, Apr., 8 (2): 48.
27. Reynolds E. Vitamin B12, folic acid, and the nervous system. Lancet Neurol. 2006 Nov 5 (11): 949-960.
28. Gromova O.A. Clinical pharmacology of vitamin B12. Evidence-based research. Pediatrician Practice, 2006, 3: 20-24.90,000 The role of vitamins during pregnancy for women

During pregnancy, a woman’s body is under a serious strain. It is not surprising, because from the very first days the whole organ system of the baby is being laid. Of great importance during this period is proper nutrition and the intake of vitamin complexes, which are necessary for the healthy bearing of a baby.

By far the best source of vitamins and minerals is food. But during such a crucial and difficult period as pregnancy, even healthy food cannot always fully replenish the necessary reserve of vitamins that are necessary for the proper development of the fetus.

Each microelement has its own physiological function, therefore, the intake of vitamins should be compiled taking into account the requirements of the daily intake, developed and recommended by the Russian Federation of obstetricians and gynecologists.

What signals does the body give in case of vitamin deficiency?

It is surprising that the body immediately starts to send signals about the lack of one or another vitamin through various symptoms. Malaise, drowsiness, headache – the cause of each of the symptoms is a lack of the corresponding vitamin.

• Vitamin A participates in the formation of visual pigments. With it, nails become brittle and brittle, visual acuity decreases.
• Lack of vitamin B1 can cause cramps, numbness of fingers and toes.
• Vitamin E is responsible for the elasticity of the skin and in case of its deficiency, women note dryness, flaking, and the appearance of skin irritations.
• Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant responsible for immunity and performance.Drowsiness, lethargy and irritability can be the reason for the lack of this element.
• B2 is responsible for the regulation of hematopoiesis and its deficiency causes burning, dry skin, tearing, dizziness.
• Vitamin D regulates the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body, which is needed to keep bones and teeth healthy. Bleeding gums, deterioration of enamel and joint pain are the first signs of deficiency.
• Calcium is responsible for the formation of the nervous system of the fetus, its lack is expressed in brittle nails, fragility of bones.

If you notice any unpleasant symptoms, discomfort, then you should immediately contact a specialist. After a full examination, a gynecologist in Novosibirsk will prescribe appropriate medications and vitamin and mineral complexes.

You should not independently diagnose hypovitaminosis and prescribe treatment. Remember that you are now taking all drugs and vitamins with your baby.

The value of folic acid in the early stages of pregnancy

Folic acid is one of the most important elements in the formation of a healthy baby.Medicine has known about the significance and importance of vitamin B9 for a long time, but in the last 10 years gynecology has begun to pay special attention to this microelement.

Folic acid deficiency, which is essential for the formation of DNA and the development of the baby’s neural tube, can lead to serious consequences, including placental abruption and miscarriage.

Clinical studies have shown that 80% of births of children with congenital defects of the brain and spinal cord can be avoided with the timely use of folic acid before pregnancy and in the process of carrying a baby.

Considering that this trace element is excreted from the body of a pregnant woman 4-5 times faster, the daily requirement for trace element B9 in healthy women is 0.4 mg. It is especially important to adhere to this recommendation in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Taking the prescribed vitamins is in no way a substitute for proper and nutritious nutrition. Therefore, the fulfillment of all the appointments and prescriptions of the doctor, walks in the fresh air and the correct regimen will be the key to the safe bearing and birth of a healthy baby.

The doctor told what vitamins can be dangerous to health

MOSCOW, 6 Jan – PRIME. Multivitamins, as a rule, do not pose any particular danger – all the components in them are balanced taking into account the daily needs of a person. But monovitamins contain one or two substances that can be harmful in case of an overdose. Endocrinologist “CM-Clinic” Elena Zhuchkova told the “Prime” agency, an excess of which vitamins can harm the body.

“Uncontrolled intake of vitamins can lead to hypervitaminosis. It concerns, first of all, fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, K. Fat-soluble vitamins are well absorbed and slowly excreted. Hypervitaminosis A and D are harder than others,” the doctor explains.

Vitamin D deficiency is known to be related to the severity of COVID-19

An excess of vitamin D is a rather dangerous condition – it can manifest itself as nausea, vomiting, itching of the skin, excess calcium in the blood and its deposition in soft tissues, kidneys, lungs, heart and blood vessels.The consequences of an overdose of vitamin D in pregnant women are dangerous. This can cause fetal abnormalities and bone disease in newborns, she warns.

“Vitamin A in doses several times higher than physiological, causes nausea, blurred vision, fatigue, hair loss, headache, deformities of the skull and face, dysfunction of the heart, kidneys, liver fibrosis, and also has a teratogenic effect on the fetus. high doses of vitamin A increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers, “Zhuchkova notes.

“Hypervitaminosis E also occurs, but not often. It can cause upset gastrointestinal tract, feeling of general weakness, diplopia, headaches. An overdose of vitamin K, which regulates blood clotting, leads to the breakdown of red blood cells and anemia,” says the doctor.

There is also a danger of overdose with water-soluble vitamins (group B, vitamin C, for example), but usually this requires doses that are tens and hundreds of times higher than the recommended ones, since they are better excreted from the body and accumulate less than fat-soluble vitamins, she explains …

Drugs have been named, because of which your driver’s license can be taken away

Zhuchkova notes that there are categories of drugs where the daily intake of vitamins can be exceeded ten or even twenty times. They cannot be used without a doctor’s prescription.

When choosing a vitamin complex, she advises paying attention to the composition, which indicates the percentage of each vitamin from the daily intake. It is desirable that it does not exceed 50-100%. Even starting to take vitamins “for prevention”, it is necessary to consult a doctor – this will lead to a better result and reduce the risks of overdose, the doctor concluded.

Clinical Study Partial Headache: Vitamin D, Multivitamin, Placebo – Clinical Trials Registry

What vitamins you need to stock up on before winter

Lethargy, hair loss and dry skin

Before winter, residents of large cities suffer from a lack of vitamins and microelements, which are necessary for the correct functioning of metabolic processes in the body and to maintain a sufficient level of immune protection, told Gazeta.Ru ”Director General of the Center for Molecular Genetic Research at DNKOM Andrey Isaev.

In the season of colds, the cells of the body especially need vitamins A, C, E, D, as well as trace elements – zinc, iron and selenium, added Yekaterina Terentyeva, a physician at “Invitro”.

“Vitamin D is involved in more than 6 thousand biochemical processes in the human body. At the same time, the overwhelming majority of people who live in Russia and countries with a similar climate have a deficit.People believe that if they were in the sun in the summer and went on vacation in the fall, they raised their vitamin D levels enough, but this is not the case, ”Isaev explained.

Lack of vitamin can lead to hormonal imbalance: serotonin, “the hormone of happiness”, is rapidly metabolized into melatonin, “sleep hormone”, explained Mikhail Gumalevsky, the therapist of “Invitro-Siberia”.

As a result of insufficient intake of micronutrients (vitamins) for a long period, the following symptoms may appear: fatigue, drowsiness, lethargy, irritability, frequent colds, fragility and hair loss, fragility of nails, dry skin, disorders of the gastrointestinal path.All this, according to Burdakova, speaks of a decrease in immunity.

In turn, trace elements such as iron, zinc, selenium and iodine play an important role in the functioning of the immune system. With a decrease in zinc levels, libido decreases, the desire to play sports disappears.

“Magnesium deficiency is increasing in patients. Patients with magnesium deficiency fall asleep worse, they develop anxiety, and vascular tone increases. All these symptoms are a reason to see a doctor and check the level of magnesium, ”Isaev added.

Iron deficiency, in turn, leads to the development of anemia, which manifests itself, as a rule, in weakness, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, pallor of the skin, deterioration of the condition of hair and nails, as well as heart palpitations, said therapist Terentyeva.

To pass tests and determine what is missing

To prepare the body for winter, you should go through a check and determine what elements the body lacks to function.

“Before starting to take additional vitamins or microelements, it is necessary to pass tests and determine what exactly the body lacks in each particular case, and what indicators are normal.The obtained results will be helped by a specialist, who will also prescribe the necessary additives and their dosage. This will help to avoid an imbalance, which, for example, can be caused by self-administration of multivitamins, and will also ensure the correct assimilation of the elements, ”said the CEO of DNKOM.

In autumn, the body rebuilds to a different temperature regime, and also reacts to a decrease in daylight hours, which is an additional load on all metabolic processes in the human body.In addition, reduced daylight hours cause apathy, and this works as a psychosomatic factor that can negatively affect health.

“All this provokes seasonal exacerbations of chronic diseases: from mental illnesses, which debut or worsen in the autumn, to diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, including stomach ulcers. Traditionally, at this time of the year, skin diseases are also exacerbated – for example, psoriasis, ”Isaev added.

“Correctly selected laboratory tests will help assess the state of vitamin and mineral metabolism, balance the diet, take measures to correct the deficiency of vitamins and minerals,” Terentyeva clarified.

“Reserves can be depleted”

At the same time, you can get the necessary elements with the help of food. Buckwheat, barley, oats and bran contain sufficient amounts of magnesium, which is important for regulating vascular tone and resisting osteoporosis (a disease associated with the loss of calcium in the bones).

“Vitamin A, which helps to maintain reproductive health, immunity, skin condition and vision, is richest in fish oil, beef liver, milk, and egg yolk.In addition, it can be obtained from orange and yellow vegetables and fruits, ”they recalled in“ Invitro ”.

Natural vitamin C is contained in red bell pepper, nutritionist Elena Solomatina told Gazeta.Ru.

“Vitamin D: cod liver. Zinc: not only pumpkin seeds, but seafood, meat, liver, chicken hearts – they contain a lot of coenzyme Q10, which improves the functioning of mitochondria in cells. Omega 3: oily fish, flaxseed oil, and walnuts. Group B vitamins: whole grain bread, cereals, ”the doctor explained.

Russians, who did not have time to accumulate reserves of vitamins and minerals in the summer-autumn period, approach winter weakened, Isaev emphasized.

“If they do not help their body with nutritional supplements, then reserves can be depleted. This means that the risk of both colds and exacerbation of chronic pathologies increases, ”the specialist concluded.

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