The doctor warned about the risks of uncontrolled intake of vitamin D

Ignatiadi: Vitamin D self-medication can lead to hypervitaminosis

Tue, 03/24/2026 - 00:20

Photo: Global Look Press/Aleksander Polyakov

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Russians are increasingly taking vitamin D without prior tests and medical advice, which can lead to negative health consequences. Anastasia Ignatiadi, an endocrinologist and nutritionist at the National Research Medical Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine of the Russian Ministry of Health, told Izvestia about this.

The doctor talked about the importance of vitamin D and the rules of intake

Experts of the Honest Sign told Izvestia about the popularity of vitamin D among Russians

According to her, the growing interest in vitamin D is associated with increased public awareness and active discussion of its benefits.

"There is a growing body of scientific evidence supporting the role of vitamin D in the prevention and treatment of a wide range of diseases, including osteoporosis, autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and even some cancers. The media and social networks are actively discussing the benefits of vitamin D, which stimulates interest in it. In addition, more and more doctors of various specialties are prescribing vitamin D levels and taking it," she noted.

However, according to the expert, along with the growing popularity, the share of self-medication is also increasing.

"Many people start taking vitamin D, guided by a common desire to improve their well-being, without thinking about the possible consequences of hypervitaminosis. There are many dosage recommendations on the Internet that are not always based on scientific evidence," she stressed.

Ignatiadi warned that uncontrolled reception can be dangerous.

"Excessive vitamin D intake can lead to hypercalcemia, impaired kidney function, cardiovascular system, and other negative consequences," she said.

The expert stressed that taking high doses without control is especially dangerous.

"Vitamin D intake, especially in high doses, should be carried out only after consulting with a doctor and determining the level of 25(OH)D is in the blood. The most bioavailable form is vitamin D3. When choosing, it is important to take into account the dosage, the manufacturer and the availability of a registration certificate, as well as pay attention to the composition and shelf life of the drug," Ignatiadi said.