HOW TAKING VITAMIN A, B12, D OR BIOTIN WITHOUT DOCTOR’S ADVICE MAY HARM YOUR LIVER, KIDNEYS, CAUSE BIRTH DEFECTS, AND MORE HEALTH ISSUES

Vitamin D, B12, magnesium and biotin supplements have become very popular in recent times. But experts warn that taking them without a doctor’s advice can cause more harm than good.

According to Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, senior consultant at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, not getting enough nutrients can lead to health problems like weak bones and anaemia. But taking too much, especially of fat-soluble vitamins like A and D, can also be dangerous.

“Optimal nutrient levels support immune function, energy production and mental health. For instance, adequate magnesium intake is linked to improved mood and reduced anxiety,” he told TOI.

Doctors say that before starting any supplement, people should consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can recommend the right supplement after checking the person’s health, diet, and blood reports.

As per Dr Pankaj Soni, principal director, Internal Medicine at Fortis Escorts, Okhla, fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) should be taken after meals that contain some fat. Even a small amount of dairy will help absorption. “Water-soluble vitamins like B-complex and C should be taken on an empty stomach with water,” he added. Most minerals can be taken at any time of the day.

Dr Anurag Mahajan, vice-chairman and senior consultant at PSRI Hospital, said supplements are not necessary for everyone. “Some people over 80 remain healthy without any supplements because they eat well and live healthily,” he told TOI. However, calcium and vitamin D3 may still be needed, especially for post-menopausal women.

Dr Meenakshi Jain, senior director at Max Hospital, Patparganj, added, “Blood tests are very important in finding out what nutrients you are low on. And once a person starts taking supplements, they should stop only if a doctor says so.” She warned against stopping or continuing supplements without medical advice.

Taking too many supplements can also lead to toxicity. According to doctors:

• Too much Vitamin A can cause liver problems, nausea, blurred vision and even birth defects.
• Excess Vitamin D can lead to kidney damage, high calcium levels, and weak muscles.
• Too much B12 is mostly safe, but may trigger acne or react with some medicines.
• Excess folic acid can hide B12 deficiency and cause nerve issues.
• Too much magnesium can cause diarrhoea, irregular heartbeat and breathing problems.
• Biotin, if taken in large doses, may affect lab test results and cause confusion in diagnoses.
• Zinc overdose can cause nausea, headaches, and lower the immune system’s strength.

Dr Arjun Dang, CEO of Dr Dangs Lab, shared with TOI that tests for Vitamin D and B12 are the most commonly requested, especially by people aged 30–50 who face tiredness and lifestyle issues. “We see many young adults in their 20s, especially vegetarians and vegans, getting tested for B12,” he said.

He added that the number of such tests has gone up over the last decade due to increased health awareness, easy access to health information online, and the post-pandemic focus on personal well-being.

Inputs from TOI