Vitamins are classified as either fat-soluble or water-soluble based on how the body absorbs and stores them.

Both types are essential for health, as they support a variety of bodily functions.

Consult a healthcare provider before taking a new vitamin supplement.

Vitamins on a table

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What’s the Difference?

These are the key differences between fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins.

Why Are Water-Soluble Vitamins Safer?

Toxicity is far more common in people trying to increase their intake through supplements.

Is It Possible to Get Too Much Water-Soluble Vitamins?

Yes, you could get too much water-soluble vitamins, but toxicity is not common.

For example, taking too much vitamin B6 for an extended period of time can lead to irreversiblenerve damage.

The risk of toxicity with water-soluble vitamins is much higher in people taking supplements.

Do You Need a Supplement?

A healthcare professional can:

Remember, supplements are not a substitute for abalanced diet.

Supplements should only be used to fill gaps, not replace whole food sources of nutrients.

Taking too many fat-soluble vitamins can lead to toxicity, whereas excess water-soluble vitamins are usually eliminated through urine.

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