Final answer:
Excessive intake of vitamin C can lead to several side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, increased urination, and headaches. Staying within the 'Tolerable Upper Intake Levels' is important to avoid these potential issues. Vitamin C is water-soluble, so the risk of severe toxicity is relatively low compared to fat-soluble vitamins.
Step-by-step explanation:
Excessive intake of vitamin C can lead to several side effects as the body responds to the surplus of this micronutrient. Some of the common side effects associated with taking too much vitamin C include:
- Diarrhea: A well-known symptom that may occur due to the osmotic effect of unabsorbed vitamin C in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Nausea: Ingesting high doses of vitamin C can irritate the stomach, potentially causing nausea.
- Increased urination: Vitamin C is a diuretic when taken in large doses, thus it can lead to increased frequency of urination.
- Headaches: While less common, some individuals may experience headaches as a result of high vitamin C intake.
It is crucial to stay within the recommended 'Tolerable Upper Intake Levels' (UL) to avoid these adverse effects. Unlike certain vitamins like A and D, vitamin C has a relatively low risk of severe toxicity due to its water solubility and the body's ability to excrete excess amounts. However, consistently consuming high doses over the UL can lead to issues such as those listed above.