Can vitamin d cause constipation
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Can Vitamin D Cause Constipation?
Vitamin D and Chronic Functional Constipation
Link Between Vitamin D Deficiency and Intestinal Motility Disorders
Research has shown a significant relationship between low levels of vitamin D and chronic functional constipation, particularly when associated with intestinal motility disorders. A study involving 86 patients with chronic functional constipation found that these patients had significantly lower levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D compared to healthy subjects. The study also noted that low vitamin D levels were an independent risk factor for the occurrence of intestinal motility disorders, which are often linked to chronic constipation .
Psychological Impact and Quality of Life
The same study highlighted that patients with low vitamin D levels and chronic functional constipation experienced a significant impairment in their quality of life and psychological well-being. This was measured using various validated questionnaires, including the Irritable Bowel Syndrome Quality of Life (IBS-QOL) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-14). The findings suggest that vitamin D deficiency may exacerbate the psychological symptoms associated with chronic constipation .
Vitamin D and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Lack of Association in IBS Symptoms
Contrary to the findings related to chronic functional constipation, another study focusing on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) found no significant association between serum vitamin D levels and IBS symptoms, including constipation. This study involved 230 Lebanese adults and used the Birmingham IBS Symptom Questionnaire to assess symptoms. The results indicated that vitamin D levels did not correlate with the total IBS symptom score or any of its subscales, including constipation .
Vitamin D Intoxication and Constipation
Case Reports of Vitamin D Overdose
There have been rare instances where excessive intake of vitamin D supplements has led to intoxication, which can cause constipation among other symptoms. One case involved a 58-year-old woman who experienced fatigue, constipation, and other symptoms after consuming a dietary supplement with high levels of vitamin D. Another case reported a 35-day-old infant who developed constipation after being administered an excessive dose of vitamin D. Both cases resolved after discontinuing the vitamin D supplementation and receiving appropriate medical treatment 34.
Conclusion
While there is evidence suggesting that low levels of vitamin D are associated with chronic functional constipation, particularly in the context of intestinal motility disorders, the relationship between vitamin D and constipation in IBS remains unclear. Additionally, excessive intake of vitamin D can lead to constipation, highlighting the importance of appropriate dosing. Further research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between vitamin D and constipation.
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