Bad: an alternative to drugs or a dangerous delusion?

Bad: an alternative to drugs or a dangerous delusion?

Part 1: Determination, classification and legislative regulation of dietary supplements

1.1. What are dietary supplements? Accurate definition and distinction with drugs.

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances designed for direct consumption with food or introduction into food products in order to enrich the rations with individual food or biologically active substances and their complexes. It is important to emphasize that dietary supplements are not drugs. This is a fundamental difference that determines all the features of their production, registration, application and control.

The distinction between dietary supplements and drugs is based on the following key criteria:

• Purpose of application: Medicines are designed for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases, as well as to change the physiological functions of the body. The dietary supplements are aimed at maintaining and improving the functional state of the body, the prevention of micronutrient deficiency and the correction of the diet. They are not intended for the treatment of diseases.
• Composition: Medicines contain certain doses of pharmacologically active substances that have passed clinical trials and proved their effectiveness and safety in specific diseases. Bades contain vitamins, minerals, amino acids, plant extracts, probiotics and other biologically active substances, the content of which can vary widely.
• Registration and control: Medicines undergo a strict registration process, including preclinical and clinical trials confirming their effectiveness and safety. The quality control of drugs is carried out at all stages of production and sale. Bades undergo state registration, which does not require clinical trials. Quality control of dietary supplements is less strict than the control of drugs.
• Instructions for use: The instruction to the drug contains detailed information about the indications, contraindications, side effects, dosage and method of use. The instructions for BAD contains information about the composition recommended method of application, contraindications and warnings. It does not indicate indications for the treatment of diseases.

1.2. The main categories and classification of dietary supplements in composition and purpose.

There are many classifications of dietary supplements based on various criteria. The main categories of dietary supplements in composition:

• Vitamin-mineral complexes: Contain vitamins and minerals in various combinations and dosages. Designed to replenish the deficiency of vitamins and minerals, improve the general state of health.
• Nutricevtiki: They contain food substances (proteins, fats, carbohydrates, dietary fiber) and their components that have a beneficial effect on health. Nutricotsevtiki includes amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, dietary fiber, prebiotics and probiotics.
• Parafarmetzetics: Contain biologically active substances of plant, animal or mineral origin, which have properties close to drugs. Parapharmaceuticals include plant extracts, adaptogens, immunomodulators.
• Probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, when it enters the human body, has a favorable effect on the intestinal microflora. Prebiotics are substances that stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the intestines.

The main categories of dietary supplements by purpose:

• To strengthen immunity: They contain vitamins, minerals, plant extracts that contribute to the strengthening of the immune system.
• To improve the work of the gastrointestinal tract: They contain probiotics, prebiotics, dietary fibers that normalize the intestinal microflora, improve digestion.
• To maintain the health of the cardiovascular system: Contain omega-3 fatty acids, Q10 coenzyme, group B vitamins, which contribute to a decrease in cholesterol, and improving blood circulation.
• To maintain the health of the musculoskeletal system: They contain glucosamine, chondroitin, calcium, vitamin D, which contribute to the strengthening of bones and joints.
• To improve memory and concentration: They contain ginkgo biloba, ginseng, B vitamins, which improve blood supply, increase mental performance.
• To reduce weight: They contain substances that accelerate metabolism, suppress appetite, and contribute to burning fat.

1.3. Legislative regulation of the production and turnover of dietary supplements in Russia and abroad. Comparison of standards and requirements.

In Russia, the production and turnover of dietary supplements are regulated by Federal Law No. 29-FZ “On the quality and safety of food products”, sanitary rules and norms (SanPiN) 2.3.2.1290-03 “Hygienic requirements for the organization of production and the turnover of biologically active food additives (BAD).” The main regulatory document that defines the requirements for dietary supplements is the technical regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 021/2011 “On the safety of food products”.

The procedure for state registration of dietary supplements includes the provision of documents confirming the safety and compliance of products with the established requirements. After registration of dietary supplements, it is included in the state register. It is important to note that state registration is not a guarantee of dietary supplements, but only confirms its safety in compliance with the recommended dosages and the method of application.

Abroad, legislative regulation of dietary supplements varies depending on the country. In the United States, dietary supplements are regulated by the Law on Food Addles, Health and Education (DSHEA) of 1994. In accordance with this law, dietary supplements are classified as food, and not as drugs, and do not require preliminary approval by the management of products and medicines (FDA) before entering the market. However, FDA has the right to withdraw dietary supplements from the market if it is a health hazard.

In the European Union (EU), dietary supplements are regulated by a directive of 2002/46/EC on food additives. The directive establishes the requirements for vitamins and minerals that can be used in dietary supplements, as well as labeling and advertising of dietary supplements. However, the EU does not have a single system of registration of dietary supplements. Each EU member country has the right to establish its own requirements for registration and control of dietary supplements.

Comparison of standards and requirements for dietary supplements in Russia and abroad shows that Russian legislation as a whole is more strict than in the USA, but less strict than in the EU. In Russia, dietary supplements are subject to mandatory state registration, while in the United States preliminary registration is not required. In the EU there is more rigid control over the content of vitamins and minerals in dietary supplements than in Russia.

Part 2: The composition of dietary supplements: ingredients, action mechanisms and potential risks

2.1. Vitamins and minerals in dietary supplements: role in the body, daily consumption standards, danger of overdose.

Vitamins and minerals are vital micronutrients necessary for the normal functioning of the body. They participate in many biochemical processes, support the immune system, provide energy, regulate growth and development.

Vitamins are divided into two groups: fat -soluble (A, D, E, K) and water -soluble (B vitamins, vitamin C). Fat -soluble vitamins accumulate in the body, so their overdose can be more dangerous than an overdose of water -soluble vitamins. Minerals are also divided into macro elements (calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium) and trace elements (iron, zinc, copper, selenium). Macro elements are necessary for the body in large quantities than trace elements.

The daily norms of consumption of vitamins and minerals vary depending on age, gender, physiological condition (pregnancy, breastfeeding), the presence of diseases. Recommended daily consumption standards for vitamins and minerals are established by the Ministry of Health of each country.

An overdose of vitamins and minerals can lead to various side effects, up to serious health disorders. For example, an overdose of vitamin A can cause nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, hair loss, liver damage. An overdose of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood), which can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, constipation, renal failure. An overdose of iron can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, liver damage.

When taking vitamin-mineral complexes, it is necessary to strictly observe the recommended dosages specified in the instructions. It is not recommended to take several vitamin-mineral complexes at the same time, as this can lead to an overdose of individual vitamins and minerals. People with chronic diseases, pregnant and nursing women should consult a doctor before taking vitamin-mineral complexes.

2.2. Plant extracts and herbs in dietary supplements: beneficial properties, interaction with drugs, allergic reactions.

Plant extracts and herbs are widely used in dietary supplements due to their potential useful properties. Many plants contain biologically active substances that can provide antioxidant, anti -inflammatory, immunomodulating, antimicrobial and other beneficial effects.

For example, green tea extract contains polyphenols that have antioxidant properties and can protect cells from damage to free radicals. Echinacea extract contains substances that can stimulate the immune system and increase the body’s resistance to infections. Valerian extract contains substances that have a calming effect and can improve sleep.

However, it should be remembered that plant extracts and herbs can interact with drugs. Some plant extracts can enhance or weaken the effect of drugs, which can lead to undesirable side effects. For example, St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants, anticoagulants and contraceptives. Grapefruit can enhance the effect of some drugs, which can lead to an overdose.

In addition, plant extracts and herbs can cause allergic reactions. Allergic reactions can appear in the form of a skin rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema, anaphylactic shock. People prone to allergies should be careful with dietary supplements containing plant extracts and herbs.

Before taking dietary supplements containing plant extracts and herbs, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you take any drugs or suffer from allergies.

2.3. Probiotics and prebiotics in dietary supplements: influence on the intestinal microflora, indications and contraindications, the choice of a quality product.

Probiotics and prebiotics are important components of dietary supplements aimed at maintaining the health of the gastrointestinal tract. Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, when it enters the human body, has a favorable effect on the intestinal microflora. Prebiotics are substances that stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the intestines.

Probiotics and prebiotics have a positive effect on the intestinal microflora, helping to increase the amount of beneficial bacteria and suppress the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. Healthy intestinal microflora plays an important role in digestion, absorption of nutrients, synthesis of vitamins, strengthening the immune system.

Probiotics and prebiotics can be useful in the following conditions:

• Intestinal dysbiosis (intestinal microflora)
• Diarrhea (diarrhea)
• Constipation
• Inflammatory diseases of the intestine (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
• Allergic diseases
• Weakened immunity

Contraindications to the use of probiotics and prebiotics:

• Individual intolerance
• Severe immunodeficiency conditions
• Acute pancreatitis

When choosing a dietary supplement with probiotics, you need to pay attention to the following factors:

• Type and number of bacteria: It is important to choose a dietary supplement containing various types of bacteria that have a proven positive effect on the intestinal microflora. The number of bacteria should be sufficient to have an effect.
• Resistance to gastric juice and bile: Bacteria should be resistant to the acidic environment of the stomach and the effects of bile in order to reach the intestines in a viable state.
• Presence of prebiotic: The content of prebiotics in the dietary supplement contributes to the growth and activity of probiotic bacteria.
• Manufacturer: It is important to choose dietary supplements from trusted manufacturers that guarantee the quality and safety of products.
• Storage conditions: It is necessary to observe the storage conditions indicated on the packaging in order to maintain the viability of bacteria.

2.4. Amino acids and other additives in dietary supplements: effect on the body, effectiveness, side effects.

Amino acids are construction blocks of proteins that play an important role in many processes occurring in the body. They participate in the synthesis of enzymes, hormones, antibodies, hemoglobin, as well as in maintaining the structure of tissues and organs.

Amino acids are divided into two groups: replaceable (synthesized in the body) and essential (not synthesized in the body and should come with food). Extremely amino acids include valin, leucine, isolacin, lysine, methionine, treonine, triptophanes, phenylalanine.

Amon acid dietary supplements can be useful for:

• Athletes and people involved in physical labor to restore muscles after training and improve sports results.
• People with a protein deficiency in the diet.
• People suffering from diseases associated with metabolic disorders.

Side effects from taking dietary supplements with amino acids:

• Digestive disorders (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
• Allergic reactions
• Interaction with drugs

Other additives that are often found in dietary supplements:

• Coenzim q10: Participates in the production of energy in cells, has antioxidant properties.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Contribute to a decrease in cholesterol, improving blood circulation, maintaining brain and eye health.
• Glucosamine and chondroitin: Contribute to the strengthening of the cartilage tissue of the joints.
• Creatine: Increases the strength and endurance of muscles.

The effectiveness and safety of these additives varies depending on the specific product and individual characteristics of the body. Before taking dietary supplements with amino acids and other additives, you need to consult a doctor.

2.5. Dangerous ingredients and impurities in dietary supplements: falsification, mismatch by the declared composition, health risks.

One of the serious problems associated with dietary supplements is the possibility of falsification and inconsistency of the declared composition. Some manufacturers can add dangerous ingredients to dietary supplements, such as drugs, hormones, stimulants that are not indicated on the packaging. This can lead to serious side effects and pose a health danger.

In addition, dietary supplements may contain impurities of heavy metals, pesticides, microorganisms, which can also be harmful to health. The inconsistency of the declared composition can manifest itself in the underestimated or high content of active substances, which can reduce dietary supplements or lead to an overdose.

Health risks associated with dangerous ingredients and impurities in dietary supplements:

• Damage to the liver and kidneys
• Violation of the cardiovascular system
• Endocrine disorders
• Allergic reactions
• Poisoning
• Interaction with drugs

To minimize risks, you need:

• To buy dietary supplements only from trusted manufacturers and in pharmacies.
• Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement before buying.
• Check the presence of a certificate of conformity.
• Pay attention to the expiration date.
• To inform the doctor about the intake of dietary supplements, especially if you take any drugs.
• If side effects occur, stop taking the dietary supplement and consult a doctor.

Part 3: Bad’s effectiveness: scientific research, clinical trials and marketing tricks

3.1. Analysis of scientific research and clinical tests of dietary supplements: evidence, methodology, reliability of results.

The effectiveness of dietary supplements is the subject of discussions and disputes. Many manufacturers declare the miraculous properties of their products, however, scientific research and clinical trials do not always confirm these statements.

An analysis of scientific research and clinical tests of dietary supplements shows that the evidence base for many dietary supplements is weak or absent at all. Many studies have disadvantages in the methodology, such as a small sample size, the absence of a control group, the bias of evaluation of the results.

The reliability of the results of dietary supplements can be called into question due to a conflict of interest. Many studies are financed by dietary supplements, which can affect the results.

In general, the evidence base for dietary supplements is much weaker than for drugs. Medicines undergo strict clinical trials that confirm their effectiveness and safety for specific diseases. Bades undergo state registration, which does not require clinical trials.

When assessing the effectiveness of dietary supplements, it is necessary to pay attention to the following factors:

• The presence of randomized controlled studies (RCTs): RCTs are the “gold standard” of clinical research.
• Sample size: The larger the sample size, the more reliable the results of the study are.
• The presence of a control group: The control group allows you to compare the effectiveness of dietary supplements with placebo or other treatment.
• Objectivity of evaluating the results: The evaluation of the results should be objective and unbiased.
• The presence of a conflict of interests: It is necessary to consider who financed the study.

3.2. A placebo effect and subjective perception of the effectiveness of dietary supplements.

A placebo effect is an improvement in the well-being or state of human health, which occurs as a result of taking an inactive substance (placebo). The placebo effect is due to psychological factors, such as belief in the effectiveness of treatment, expectation of improvement, suggestion.

A placebo effect can play an important role in the subjective perception of the effectiveness of dietary supplements. People who take dietary supplements may improve well -being even if the dietary supplement has no physiological effect on the body.

Marketing tricks used by dietary supplements can enhance the placebo effect. For example, manufacturers can use bright advertising, celebrities reviews, science -like terms to convince people of the effectiveness of their product.

It is important to remember that the placebo effect is a real phenomenon, but it cannot replace real treatment. If you suffer from any disease, you need to consult a doctor and get qualified medical care.

3.3. Marketing strategies and advertising of dietary supplements: promises, inaccurate information, manipulations.

Bad manufacturers often use aggressive marketing strategies and advertising to convince people of the effectiveness of their products. The following tricks are often used in dietary supplements:

• Promises of miraculous healing: Manufacturers promise a cure for chronic diseases, rejuvenation, weight loss without effort.
• Inaccurate information: Advertising uses false or exaggerated data on the composition and properties of Bad.
• Scientific terms: Complex scientific terms are used that can mislead consumers.
• Celebrity reviews: Reviews of famous people who may not have a medical education are used.
• Creating fear: There is a fear of a deficiency of vitamins and minerals, aging, and diseases.
• Limited proposal: An artificial deficit is created to push people to buy.
• Guarantee of a refund: A guarantee of a refund is proposed if the dietary supplement does not have the desired effect.

All this information should be verified for compliance with reality and scientifically proven.

3.4. The role of doctors and pharmacists in informing patients about dietary supplements: ethical aspects, responsibility, professional debt.

Doctors and pharmacists play an important role in informing patients about dietary supplements. They must provide patients with objective and scientifically sound information about dietary supplements in order to help them make a conscious choice.

Ethical aspects of informing patients about dietary supplements:

• Objectivity: Doctors and pharmacists should provide patients with objective information about dietary supplements without promoting specific brands.
• Reliability: Information should be reliable and based on scientific research.
• Honesty: Doctors and pharmacists should not mislead patients regarding the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements.
• Confidentiality: It is necessary to observe the confidentiality of information about patients.

Responsibility of doctors and pharmacists:

• Be responsible for the information provided.
• Provide information in an accessible form.
• Answer patient questions.
• Inform patients about possible side effects and interactions of dietary supplements with drugs.
• Recommend dietary supplements only in cases where it is justified from a medical point of view.

Professional debt of doctors and pharmacists:

• Put the patient’s interests above his own.
• Constantly improve your qualifications.
• Follow ethical norms and principles.

Part 4: Bades and Health: who needs dietary supplements, risks and warnings

4.1. Indications for the use of dietary supplements: micronutrient deficiency, special physiological conditions, disease prevention.

Bades can be useful in the following cases:

• Micronutrient deficiency: Bades can be used to replenish the deficiency of vitamins, minerals and other micronutrients caused by inferior nutrition, diseases, and medication.
• Special physiological conditions: Bades can be useful for pregnant and nursing women, children and adolescents, elderly people, athletes, people exposed to stress.
• Prevention of diseases: Some dietary supplements can be used to prevent diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, cancer.

However, it should be remembered that dietary supplements are not a replacement for good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Before taking dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor to determine if you really need dietary supplements and which dietary supplements are suitable for you.

4.2. Risk groups: children, pregnant and nursing women, elderly people, people with chronic diseases.

Some groups of the population are at risk of developing side effects from the reception of dietary supplements. These groups include:

• Children: The children’s organism is more sensitive to the effects of biologically active substances, so the intake of dietary supplements should be carried out only as prescribed by the doctor and under his control.
• Pregnant and lactating women: Reception of dietary supplements with pregnant and nursing women can affect the development of the fetus and health of the child, so before taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
• Elderly people: In older people, chronic diseases are more common and they take more drugs, which increases the risk of interaction between dietary supplements with medicines.
• People with chronic diseases: Reception of dietary supplements with chronic diseases can affect the course of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment, so before taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

4.3. Interaction of dietary supplements with drugs: potential dangers and warnings.

Bades can interact with drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect, as well as causing side effects. Some dietary supplements can affect the metabolism of drugs in the liver, which can change their concentration in the blood and affect their effectiveness and safety.

Examples of the interaction of dietary supplements with drugs:

• St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants, anticoagulants and contraceptives.
• Grapefruit can enhance the effect of some drugs, which can lead to an overdose.
• Vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants.
• Iron can reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics.

Before taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to inform the doctor about all the drugs that you accept in order to avoid undesirable interactions.

4.4. Signs of low -quality dietary supplements: fakes, expired shelf life, damaged packaging.

Signs of low -quality dietary supplements:

• Fakes: Fakes may contain dangerous ingredients, do not correspond to the declared composition or be completely ineffective.
• The expired shelf life: Reception of dietary supplements with an expired shelf life can be dangerous for health.
• Damaged packaging: Damaged packaging may indicate improper storage of dietary supplements, which can affect its quality and safety.
• Low price: Too low price may indicate a fake or poor -quality product.
• Lack of information about the manufacturer: The lack of information about the manufacturer or fuzzy marking may indicate an illegal dietary supplement.

If signs of poor -quality dietary supplements are found, it should not be consumed.

4.5. Alternative ways to obtain the necessary vitamins and minerals: a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle, consultation with a doctor.

In most cases, the necessary vitamins and minerals can be obtained from a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet includes the use of various products from all groups: vegetables, fruits, cereals, proteins, dairy products.

A healthy lifestyle includes regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep, rejection of bad habits.

Before you start taking dietary supplements, it is recommended to consult a doctor to determine whether you really need dietary supplements and which dietary supplements are suitable for you. The doctor may prescribe tests to determine the level of vitamins and minerals in the body and give recommendations for the correction of nutrition and lifestyle.

In conclusion, dietary supplements are not an alternative to drugs and should not be used to treat diseases. Bades can be useful to replenish the deficiency of micronutrients, maintain health and prevent diseases, but only with the proper use and under the control of a doctor. You must be careful when choosing dietary supplements, give preference to trusted manufacturers and avoid fakes. It is important to remember that a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are the basis of health and well -being.