Does Vitamin D Toxicity Exist?

Published May 09, 2015

Vitamin D is one of the most important and most misunderstood vitamin of our time, and many people simply aren’t receiving enough. Most people are deficient in vitamin D due to lack of sunlight exposure. We’re modern-day cavemen, trapped in our offices and homes, rarely ever exposing our skin to the life-giving energy of the sun. Vitamin D supplementation is perhaps the most viable alternative, but many people are concerned over taking too much, fearing that excess vitamin D can lead to toxicity. While it’s true you should have your vitamin D levels checked to ensure optimal supplementation levels, the truth is that vitamin D toxicity may hold no clinical relevance in current scientific research.

The Myth of Vitamin D Toxicity

A common concern regarding vitamin supplementation is toxicity. Taking too much of a good thing is never a good thing, and this holds true for most nutrients. The good thing about vitamin D, however, is that no evidence has conclusively shown vitamin D toxicity exists. What’s more, a recent study has concluded that there is probably no risk to taking vitamin D over 10,000 IUs. ^[1] This study echoes previous research that has revealed similar findings.

According to the Vitamin D Council, 5,000 IU/day of vitamin D supplementation can be helpful for getting your vitamin D to its optimal level. ^[1] Keep in mind that this amount is for individuals who know their current vitamin D status. Without knowing your actual blood levels of vitamin D, you’re more or less grasping at straws and could be supplementing with far less than you need. Consult with your doctor to determine your level and supplementation needs.

Do you get enough vitamin D? What type of supplementation do you implement, if any? Please let us know your thoughts about vitamin D in the comments!