Opening a bottle of health supplements first thing in the morning and swallowing capsules without a second thought has become a habit for many. In the age of social media, YouTube, and fitness influencers, there’s a growing belief that “the more vitamins you take, the healthier you become.” But can taking too much actually cause harm—especially when it comes to Vitamin B12? Could it really affect your kidneys?
Can Excess Vitamin B12 Harm Your Kidneys?
Vitamin B12 is water-soluble, and any excess is typically flushed out through urine. However, recent studies suggest that long-term consumption of high doses of B12 supplements may negatively impact kidney function.
In fact, elevated B12 intake can increase serum creatinine levels, a key indicator of kidney health.
People with diabetes or high blood pressure—especially those already suffering from kidney issues—should be particularly cautious with high B12 intake.
How Much B12 Is Enough?
The recommended daily intake of Vitamin B12 is 2.4 micrograms. If your diet includes foods like milk, curd, cheese, eggs, or meat, your body likely gets enough B12 naturally.
Taking supplements without medical advice can be risky.
What Should You Do?
- Get a blood test: Check your B12 levels first.
- Consult a doctor: Only take supplements if recommended.
- Avoid unnecessary intake: More vitamins do not always mean better health.
Sometimes, in the name of health, we do things that unknowingly harm our bodies. Vitamin B12 is essential, but too much can potentially stress vital organs like the kidneys. So next time you reach for a supplement bottle, make sure to consult a healthcare professional first.