Too much vitamin C: Is it harmful?

 

Answers from Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient. Still, it's possible to have too much vitamin C. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that supports normal growth and development. Vitamin C also helps your body absorb iron. Because your body doesn't produce or store vitamin C, it's important to include vitamin C in your diet. For most people, a large orange or a cup of strawberries, chopped red pepper or broccoli provide enough vitamin C for the day. Any extra vitamin C will simply be flushed out of your body in your urine. For adults, the recommended dietary reference intake for vitamin C is 65 to 90 milligrams (mg) a day, and the upper limit is 2,000 mg a day. Although too much dietary vitamin C is unlikely to be harmful, megadoses of vitamin C supplements may cause: Diarrhea Nausea Vomiting Heartburn Abdominal bloating and cramps Headache Insomnia Kidney stones Remember, for most people, a healthy diet provides an adequate amount of vitamin C. Feb. 05, 2015 References Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed Dec. 29, 2014. Pazirandeh S, et al. Overview of water-soluble vitamins. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed Dec. 29, 2014. Vitamin C. Office of Dietary Supplements. http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional. Accessed Dec. 29, 2014. See more Expert Answers