taking vitamins

Taking Vitamins - Consult Your Physician

The foremost rule regarding taking vitamins is: Always consult a physician prior to embarking on a vitamin regimen! Other things to consider when taking vitamin supplements vary somewhat depending upon which vitamin is being taken. Remember vitamins are intended to supplement a healthy diet and shouldn't be taken in place of that.

Vitamin A is best absorbed when taken together with a little oil or fat in the diet. Antacids and cholesterol lowering drugs can inhibit its absorption. Vitamin A can be toxic in doses nearing 300mg, causing bone and liver damage and possible birth defects in developing fetuses.

The B vitamins enhance each other's absorption. Alcohol and antibiotics may inhibit the absorption of certain B vitamins. Taking significantly more then the RDA of B vitamins can cause symptoms such as liver damage(B3), intestinal disturbances(B5), neuritis(B6), etc.

Taking mega-doses of vitamin C can alter or taint the results of blood, urine, bowel cancer and diabetes tests. Vitamin C works best when taken together with calcium and magnesium. Taking birth control pills or aspirin can reduce vitamin C levels.

Cholesterol lowering drugs and some laxatives can reduce vitamin D absorption levels. While fats and oils enhance vitamin D absorption. Infants have the highest risk of overdosing on vitamin D.

Vitamin E's action in the body is enhanced by vitamin C and selenium. Taking mega-doses of iron, copper, or manganese can reduce absorbed vitamin E. High doses of vitamin E can adversely affect blood-clotting.

Vitamin H supplements should be taken with meals. B vitamins can help its absorption, while excessive alcohol intake can inhibit it. No more then 2500mcg of this vitamin should be taken daily.

Yogurt can enhance vitamin K production in the body. Taking antibiotics can significantly reduce vitamin K levels. Too much vitamin K causes liver damage.

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