Some fat-soluble vitamins, such as A or beta-carotene, and E, and minerals such as iron, can build up to toxic levels quite easily. Part of the recommended daily dose is the “maximum tolerable intake level” (UL), which is the maximum amount of a nutrient that can be ingested before running the risk of adverse effects. The maximum vitamin A limit, for example, is 10,000 IU, a figure that can be exceeded if only five of the most popular multivitamin gummies are consumed. Too much vitamin A can lead to dizziness, nausea, headaches, skin irritation, and joint pain (and, in rare cases, coma and even death).
Just four gummies containing 10 mg of niacin per serving put you at the maximum limit, above which you could experience “hot flashes” (a burning, red, or tingling sensation on the skin), nausea, or vomiting. Too much iron can cause stomach aches at best and lead to seizures or, at worst, be fatal. You can calculate how many gummies are really too many by checking the percentage of the daily value of each vitamin and mineral listed on the label. Several studies have shown that labels on marijuana edibles are rarely reliable, FiveThirtyEight reported in July, and that edibles may have more THC than they claim.
When consumed in high doses, THC can cause anxiety, drowsiness, and vomiting. Thanks to their easy way of eating, too many people overeat, which causes some dangerous side effects when they eat too many vitamin gummies. One of the best ways to avoid getting hooked on gummy bears is to eat smaller, healthier meals more often. And keep in mind that you may be getting more supplemental nutrients than you think come from the fortified foods you eat, such as breakfast cereals, plant-based or dairy milk, beverages such as vitamin water, and protein bars or shakes.
In fact, some studies have shown that people who eat too many gummy bears tend to have higher levels of body fat and a greater risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer.
