Can Taking Vitamins Give You Diarrhea?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Can taking vitamins give you diarrhea? That may sound like a way to help cover your nutritional bases, especially if your diet is less than stellar. But routinely getting an overload of vitamins and minerals can hurt you.

Too much vitamin C or zinc could cause nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps

.

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Why do multivitamins give me diarrhea?

Some , especially chewables or gummies,

may be sweetened with a sugar alcohol called sorbitol

. For people who are especially sensitive to the laxative-like effects of sorbitol, these multivitamins could potentially cause diarrhea.

Is diarrhea a side effect of multivitamins?

Common side effects


Certain side effects are more likely to occur than others when you're taking multivitamins

. These include ( 2 , 3 ): constipation. diarrhea.

Is it normal to have diarrhea with vitamins?

If you take a vitamin supplement and your body isn't deficient in that nurtient, in some cases, toxic build-up can occur, which can lead to issues like nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, hair loss, gastrointestinal upset, fatigue, and mild nerve damage, Lambert told Insider.

Is it OK to take a multivitamin everyday?

Most studies find no benefit from multivitamins in protecting the brain or heart. But

There are potential benefits and no risks from a one daily standard

.

What vitamins make you poop?

  • Magnesium. Magnesium plays a number of essential roles in your body, and certain forms of this mineral may help with constipation. …
  • Probiotics. …
  • Fiber. …
  • Carnitine. …
  • Aloe vera. …
  • Senna.

How do you know if you are taking too many vitamins?

  1. Intestinal bleeding (from iron)
  2. Appetite loss.
  3. Constipation (from iron or calcium)
  4. Diarrhea, possibly bloody.
  5. Nausea and vomiting.
  6. Stomach pain.
  7. Weight loss (from long-term overdose)

What vitamins should not be taken together?

  • Magnesium and calcium/multivitamin. …
  • Vitamins D, E and K. …
  • Fish Oil & Gingko Biloba. …
  • Copper and zinc. …
  • Iron and Green tea. …
  • Vitamin C and B12.

Can taking vitamins on an empty stomach cause diarrhea?

Vitamins and nausea

“Taking vitamins on an empty stomach can frequently upset the GI tract,” says gastroenterologist Christine Lee, MD. “

Many people experience stomach pains, nausea and even diarrhea

.”

What are the side effects of multivitamins?


Constipation, diarrhea, or upset stomach

may occur. These effects are usually temporary and may disappear as your body adjusts to this medication. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Can vitamin b12 give you diarrhea?

Safety and side effects


High doses of vitamin B-12, such as those used to treat a deficiency, might cause: Headache

.

Nausea and vomiting

.

Diarrhea

.

Should I take multivitamins in the morning or at night?

Neil Levin, a clinical nutritionist at NOW Foods, agrees that

morning is best for multivitamins

and any B vitamins. “Multivitamins tend to do best when taken earlier in the day, as the B vitamins in them might stimulate metabolism and brain function too much for a relaxing evening or before bed,” Levin says.

Should I stop taking vitamins if my pee is bright yellow?

Bright yellow urine is common when taking a vitamin B complex, specifically due to the B2 vitamin, also known as riboflavin. In fact, “flavin” comes from the Latin “flavus” which means yellow. So

don't ditch your daily vitamins yet—they're actually a vital part of maintaining your overall health

.

Are vitamins worth taking?


Most people do not need to take

and can get all the vitamins and minerals they need by eating a healthy, balanced diet. Vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium and vitamin C, are essential nutrients that your body needs in small amounts to work properly.

Can vitamins affect bowel movements?


Some vitamins and minerals can cause loose stools or diarrhea, including magnesium and vitamin C

. Other supplements, such as calcium and iron, can cause constipation. People should speak with a doctor before starting or stopping a vitamin or mineral supplement. Amazing daily poops, guaranteed.

Can one a day vitamins cause diarrhea?


Constipation, diarrhea, or upset stomach may occur

. These effects are usually temporary and may disappear as your body adjusts to this medication.

Can vitamin D affect your bowel movements?

While calcium appears to cause constipation, vitamin D's side effects include both extremes of the bowel frequency spectrum. The University of Maryland Medical Health System notes that

too much vitamin D can cause both diarrhea and constipation

as well as a host of other side effects.

Can too much vitamin D cause diarrhea?

Symptoms and treatment of vitamin D toxicity

The main consequence of vitamin D toxicity is a buildup of calcium in the blood, called hypercalcemia ( 26 ).

Early symptoms of hypercalcemia include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and weakness

( 27 ).

Which two vitamins pose the greatest risk of toxicity?

The fat-soluble vitamins

A and D

are the most likely to cause toxicity symptoms if you consume them in high amounts.

How do you know if vitamins are working?


Ask your doctor to perform blood tests to determine what vitamin and mineral deficiencies you may have

, and to establish a baseline by which you can measure the benefits of your multivitamin. Be sure to schedule follow-up lab tests 30 days after you begin a new multivitamin regimen.

Is it better to take vitamin D every day or once a week?

Conclusion.

Daily vitamin D was more effective than weekly

, and monthly administration was the least effective.

Is it OK to take vitamin D and a multivitamin together?


No interactions were found between multivitamin and Vitamin D3

. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.

What vitamins can I take together daily?

  • Magnesium and vitamin D3. Magnesium and vitamin D3 supplements can be taken together to ensure that the body functions adequately. …
  • Omega 3 and vitamin E. …
  • Magnesium and zinc.

Why do my vitamins upset my stomach?


Vitamins that are more acidic in nature ― like vitamin C or folate ― may cause nausea if they're consumed on an empty stomach

, Poppers told HuffPost.

What is the best time of day to take vitamin?

While the best time to take your multivitamin is ultimately the time you'll remember to take it, experts generally agree that

in the morning or midday

—and with a little food—is a safe bet.

When is the best time to take vitamins?

Normally, most vitamins can be taken at

any time of day

. That said, some vitamins are better absorbed under special conditions, which is why it's good to know how and when to take a supplement to promote optimal absorption.

What are the benefits of taking multivitamin every day?

  • Increased energy levels. When you don't get enough vitamins, your body has to work harder to perform simple tasks, which can lead to fatigue and other health problems. …
  • Improved mood. …
  • Reduces stress and anxiety. …
  • Improved short-term memory. …
  • Maintained muscle strength.

What medications should not be taken with multivitamins?

  • anisindione.
  • bortezomib.
  • capecitabine.
  • ceftibuten.
  • cephalexin.
  • cephradine.
  • cholestyramine.
  • colesevelam.

Does B12 affect bowel movements?

Can vitamin B supplements cause diarrhea?

Gastrointestinal Problems


When a higher dose of vitamin B is taken, people may suffer from indigestion, nausea or mild diarrhea

. People with a prior history of gastrointestinal problems and aged individuals are more likely to suffer from intense stomach cramps and severe diarrhea after taking high doses of vitamin B.

Can B complex vitamins cause diarrhea?


Constipation, diarrhea, or upset stomach may occur

. These effects are usually temporary and may disappear as your body adjusts to this medication. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

How long does it take for vitamins to kick in?

Is it better to take multivitamins or individual vitamins?

In most cases, healthy individuals receive enough vitamins and minerals from diet alone.

If people wish to take a supplement, a multivitamin is the best option

. Individual vitamins should only be for those that are deficient in specific nutrients and after a consultation with a doctor.

How long can I take multivitamins?

Generally, people take multivitamins daily for an extended period. However, the period depends entirely on the user.

Some people take the supplements for a few days, while others may take them for years

. For multivitamins to be fully absorbed into your system, one should take them with food.

Is clear pee good?


Clear urine is a sign of good hydration and a healthy urinary tract

. However, if they consistently notice clear urine and also have extreme or unusual thirst, it is best to speak to a doctor.

Why is my wee yellow when I wipe?

Bright yellow urine is

a sign of excess B-vitamins in the body

, including B-2 and B-12, although this condition is harmless. Taking B-vitamin supplements can lead to urine of this color. The yellow color darkens as the concentration of the urine increases.

Sophia Kim
Author
Sophia Kim
Sophia Kim is a food writer with a passion for cooking and entertaining. She has worked in various restaurants and catering companies, and has written for several food publications. Sophia's expertise in cooking and entertaining will help you create memorable meals and events.