Doctor reveals 3 supplements that can be toxic to the brain and nervous system

Neurologist Dr Bing cautions against overconsumption of certain supplements, highlighting potential risks to brain and nervous system health. Excessive zinc intake can hinder copper absorption, leading to nerve damage. High doses of Vitamin A may cause increased brain pressure, resulting in vision problems. Similarly, too much Vitamin D can elevate blood calcium levels, potentially causing confusion and fatigue. Read more!
Doctor reveals 3 supplements that can be toxic to the brain and nervous system
Image credits: Getty Images
Supplements have become the go-to addition in people's lives over the past couple of years, where they buy the most popular ones and include them in their routines for better health. According to the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), findings from 2022 reveal that three-quarters (75%) of Americans use nutritional or dietary supplements. The reasons for the same range from "maintaining my health" to "live healthier or adopt healthier habits."Metabolic doctor shares 7-day routine to lose belly fat naturallyMagnesium deficiency: Doctor shares 6 signs that indicate extremely low magnesium levels in the bodyWhile consuming these supplements is not entirely harmful, not every supplement in any amount will be beneficial to your body. Now, Dr Bing, a neurologist, has revealed 3 supplements that can be toxic to your brain and nervous system health.
Surprisingly easy ways to protect your brain and prevent stroke
On his Instagram account, Dr Bing shared a video on the topic that has garnered over 10.7K views and 269 comments. "3 supplements that can be toxic to your brain and nervous system if you take too much", added the doctor in the caption.

The viral video

Talking about the supplements, Dr Bing said, "Here are three supplements you need to be careful about taking."

Zinc

Zinc supplements
Image credits: Getty Images
The doctor shared how people usually take it for immune support or to fight off colds.
It's found in multivitamins, lozenges and even some over-the-counter cold remedies, he added."Now zinc is essential for our bodies and can be found in multiple food sources but the problem is when people take supplements daily for months they can easily go over the safe limit."High uric acid levels linked to high BP, diabetes and heart disease: Early symptoms to watch forAlso Read: Cardiologist reveals subtle symptoms of heart attack in women to watch out forAlso Read: Diabetes dietitian recommends four foods to lower blood sugar to non-diabetic levelExcessive zinc can interfere with copper absorption and copper is essential for the nervous system. Low amounts of copper in the body can cause Myeloneuropathy, which is damage to the spinal cord and peripheral nerves, leading to numbness, tingling and trouble walking."I've seen several cases where people come in with progressive weakness and sensory loss due to copper deficiency from long term zinc overuse," explained Dr Bing.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A
Image credits: Getty Images
People typically take Vitamin A supplements for skin health, vision or immunity. It is present in a lot of supplements like cod liver oil or other liver-based supplements. "Unlike water soluble vitamins, Vitamin A is fat soluble which means it stores in your liver and it can accumulate over time. Too much of this can lead to a condition called Pseudotumor Cerebri, which is increased pressure in the brain that mimics a brain tumour." This can cause headaches, vision problems and even permanent vision loss.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D
Image credits: Getty Images
Vitamin D supplements are included in diets for bone health and immune support. They are recommended for those at risk of Vitamin D deficiency such as infants and those above 50."However, taking too high doses of Vitamin D can cause calcium to build up in your blood, which can affect the brain, leading to things like confusion, fatigue, depression and sometimes even psychosis," explained the doc."So while these vitamins and minerals are essential for our bodies to function, moderation is key. Like almost everything in life, more is not always better," he added.Also read: Do BP readings differ between arms? Doctor explains what it meansAlso read: 3 supplements that can be toxic to the brain and nervous system

author
About the Author
TOI Lifestyle Desk

The TOI Lifestyle Desk is a dynamic team of dedicated journalists who, with unwavering passion and commitment, sift through the pulse of the nation to curate a vibrant tapestry of lifestyle news for The Times of India readers. At the TOI Lifestyle Desk, we go beyond the obvious, delving into the extraordinary. Consider us your lifestyle companion, providing a daily dose of inspiration and information. Whether you're seeking the latest fashion trends, travel escapades, culinary delights, or wellness tips, the TOI Lifestyle Desk is your one-stop destination for an enriching lifestyle experience.

End of Article
Follow Us On Social Media
Tired of too many ads?go ad free now