Expert raises alarm over Vitamin C



Paul Okoh, a nutritionist, has warned against the overdose of Vitamin C.

The dietary supplement is being used more to boost the immune system against coronavirus.

But Okoh told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja, that overdose could trigger undesirable effects.

The expert stated that it was wrong for people to take excess to forestall coronavirus infection.

He explained that Vitamin C is a type of antioxidant that helps protect the body from free radicals that damage and destroy healthy cells.

“The maximum recommended amount or upper limit is 2,000mg per day for adults. Taking more is not life-threatening, but you may experience side effects like abdominal pain, cramps, diarrhea, headaches, nausea and possible vomiting and sleeping problems.”

Okoh warned that people with hemochromatosis are in danger of a Vitamin C overdose.

The condition causes the body to store excessive amounts of iron and leads to body tissue damage.

The expert also said an overdose may also result in undesirable health conditions such as gall bladder stone, kidney stones and pelvic ulcer.

Pointing out that low Vitamin C in the body causes a deadly condition known as Scurvy, Okoh advised Nigerians to take it only once in a day.

He lamented that some people take double or triple dose daily, warning that the supplement provokes peptic ulcer.

Okoh said normal dose supports the body’s natural defenses against illness and increases iron absorption essential for growth and body functions.

According to him, this was how Vitamin C gained its reputation as a virus-fighting vitamin.

Stressing that oanges and orange juice are the best-known sources, he listed others as bell peppers, broccoli, cantaloupe, grapefruit, kiwi, potatoes, strawberries and tomatoes.

Okoh noted that patients may probably not need Vitamin C supplement if they eat a lot of fruits and vegetables.

The nutritionist added the average adult woman required 70mg of vitamin C per day, while the average man required 90mg.

He recommended higher amounts for pregnant and nursing women and advised Nigerians to discuss their individual nutritional needs with doctors.

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