It's no secret that gummy vitamins are a popular way to get your daily dose of essential nutrients. They come in a variety of flavors and shapes, making them an attractive option for those who don't like taking pills. However, it's important to remember that too much of a good thing can be dangerous. A 14-year-old boy recently found this out the hard way when he ate 150 gummy vitamins for breakfast and ended up in the emergency room with a broken arm.
The boy, known as TJ, had been taking gummy vitamins for some time, but he didn't realize that they weren't candy. He had been eating them without any problems until one morning when he ate 150 pieces in one sitting. This caused his body to absorb an excessive amount of vitamin A, which led to bone resorption and muscle weakness. As a result, he tripped and fell, fracturing several bones in his arm.
In addition to the broken arm, TJ also experienced stomach pain and nausea. This is because gummy vitamins can contain ingredients that can irritate the digestive system. For example, consuming too much vitamin C (more than 2000 milligrams) can cause cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. It's also important to note that some gummies may contain more than 400 IU of vitamin D, so it's best to check the supplement label first before taking them.
It's also important to be aware of the sugar content in gummy vitamins. Many of them contain sugar alcohols, which reduce the amount of added sugar without sacrificing flavor. However, if you eat too many gummies as a snack, it can add up quickly. For example, if you eat six gummies as a snack, it adds up to 24 grams of sugar for women and 38 grams for men - both of which exceed the recommended daily intake. Finally, it's important to remember that gummy vitamins are not a substitute for healthy meals.
While they may provide some essential nutrients, they don't provide all the nutrients your body needs. It's best to look for whole foods for health benefits.
