Camu Powder Side Effects

Camu camu powder is generally safe, but consuming large amounts can potentially lead to some side effects:

Digestive problems: The high levels of vitamin C in camu camu may increase stomach acid levels and cause intestinal wall damage, leading to digestive issues like upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. It may negatively affect people susceptible to ulcers.

Insomnia and appetite loss: Camu camu may elevate serotonin levels, which can potentially cause insomnia (a sleep disorder that makes it difficult to fall and stay asleep) or loss of appetite in some individuals, although research is limited.

Chronic diarrhea: Excess vitamin C from camu camu may lead to diarrhea in some cases.

Interference with chemotherapy drugs: Camu camu may possibly interact with some chemotherapy medications that rely on free radicals, as the vitamin C may fight the free radicals and interrupt treatment, but detailed research is lacking.

Excess iron absorption: Vitamin C consumption from camu camu could potentially be linked to excess iron absorption and should be avoided in people with hemochromatosis, a genetic condition that causes iron to build up in the blood.

However, these side effects are rare and usually only occur with excessive consumption. The tolerable upper limit for vitamin C is 2,000 mg per day. Typical dosage recommendations are 1-3 teaspoons (5-15 grams) of camu camu powder per day. Pregnant women and those breastfeeding should consult their doctor before using camu camu.