Can taking too much vitamin C cause sepsis?

VC usually refers to vitamin C. Whether excessive intake of vitamin C can lead to sepsis depends on the specific circumstances of consumption. Generally, taking too much vitamin C in normal doses does not directly cause sepsis; however, long-term megadoses may lead to serious complications and thus pose indirect risks that should be taken seriously. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If excess vitamin C comes merely from regular diet or short-term use of standard-dose supplements, the surplus is typically excreted in urine and may only cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating or diarrhea, without directly triggering sepsis. Sepsis is primarily caused by pathogenic infections from bacteria, fungi, and similar organisms, and there is no direct causal link between sepsis and excessive vitamin C intake.

However, long-term megadoses of vitamin C may increase uric acid levels, potentially leading to kidney stones, or interfere with the absorption of other nutrients, thereby weakening the body's immunity. If open wounds or infection sites are present under such conditions, pathogens may more easily breach the immune defenses and cause infection. If the infection is not promptly controlled, this could indirectly increase the risk of developing sepsis.

To safely supplement vitamin C, it is recommended to obtain it primarily from fresh fruits and vegetables. If supplements are needed, follow the recommended dosage and avoid blind over-supplementation.