Persistent itching can be frustrating, especially when you can’t identify the cause. If you haven’t switched to a new laundry detergent or soap lately, and if you have no other symptoms, you might consider that what you’re ingesting could be the source of the problem.
Food allergies can cause itching. But some supplements can do so as well, particularly if you take them in excess or along with certain foods or drinks.
Here’s why it’s possible for the following four supplements to make you itch.
1. Allergy to Your ‘Multi’
Multivitamins are useful to treat or prevent vitamin deficiencies due to poor diet or certain illnesses. But it’s possible to have an allergic reaction to one or more of the ingredients in your multivitamin.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include not just itchy skin but swelling of your face, mouth, lips, tongue, or throat, according to Cleveland Clinic. Get medical care if you have any of these side effects from taking a multivitamin.
2. High Doses of Vitamin A
Taking high doses of this vitamin might be the reason for your itching. Symptoms of high doses of vitamin A can include itching, hives, and a skin rash, according to Cleveland Clinic. Too much vitamin A can cause skin dryness and scaling, itching, chapped lips, and other symptoms, according to the International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology.
Vitamin A deficiency isn’t common in the United States, according to StatPearls. So, if you’re ingesting large amounts of it in your multivitamin, you could be going over the recommended daily allowance, increasing the likelihood of side effects.
3. Adverse Reactions From Niacin
It’s surprisingly easy to ingest too much niacin, or vitamin B3, without being aware. For example, energy drinks usually have a very high niacin content. If you drink these beverages while also taking a multivitamin supplement that includes niacin, you can easily get too much. Your body doesn’t need more than a maximum of 16 milligrams (mg) a day, which can easily be reached through diet.
While niacin is generally considered safe to take in typical amounts, excessive amounts can cause symptoms like itching of the skin and skin flushing, according to Mayo Clinic. That said, more–serious side effects such as liver damage are likely only for those who take prescription-level dosages of 2,000 to 6,000 mg a day.
4. Too Much Magnesium
Magnesium is an element found in many multivitamins. Some laxatives and antacids also include it as magnesium oxide. You can also purchase magnesium as a single supplement without a prescription.
If you double up on sources, you might get too much. Itchy palms, feet, and limbs can result, usually along with a rash or hives, according to MedlinePlus. If this happens, get medical help, particularly if you also feel lightheaded, nauseous, or weak.
-and-bottle-on-white-background.jpg?w=576)
