HYPERVITAMINOSIS - OVERVIEW AND PREVENTION TIPS
*Introduction - Hypervitaminosis refers to the condition resulting from excessive intake and accumulation of vitamins, most commonly the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Unlike water-soluble vitamins, which are excreted when consumed in excess, fat-soluble vitamins are stored in adipose tissue and the liver, predisposing to toxicity when intake surpasses the body’s capacity for utilization and storage. The clinical spectrum varies from mild, subclinical laboratory abnormalities to severe, life-threatening organ dysfunction. Understanding hypervitaminosis is critical given the widespread availability of over-the-counter supplements and the increasing trend of self-medication for perceived health benefits. Classification of Hypervitaminosis Hypervitaminosis is classified according to the specific vitamin involved, with key distinctions as follows: · Hypervitaminosis A (Preformed Vitamin A Toxicity) : Results from excessiv...