Bad: an alternative to drugs or a dangerous substitute?

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Bad: an alternative to drugs or a dangerous substitute?

I. Definition and classification of dietary supplements

Biologically active food additives (dietary supplements) are concentrates of natural or natural biologically active substances that are intended for direct intake or introduction into food products in order to enrich the diet with individual food or biologically active substances and their complexes. The definition is regulated by the legislation of each country, but in general it reflects their purpose as supplementing to the diet, and not replacing good nutrition or drugs. (SanPiN 2.3.2.1290-03 “Hygienic requirements for the organization of production and turnover of biologically active additives to food (BAD)”)

Bades are classified according to various signs, including the composition, form of release and the mechanism of action. The main categories include:

• Nutricevtiki: Contain essential foods (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, etc.) necessary for the normal functioning of the body. The purpose of the use of nutricatics is to replenish the deficiency of these substances in the diet. (UDC 613.2+615.2; BBK 51.23+53.52; DOI 10.21518/2079-701x-2017-17-11-17 On the role and place of nutticians in modern medicine)

• Parafarmetzetics: They have a regulatory effect on physiological processes in the body, support the function of organs and systems, have a preventive effect. The composition of parapharmaceuticals may include plant extracts, animal fabrics, beekeeping products and other biologically active substances. (Tutelyan V.A., Samsonov M.A., Vyalkov A.I. et al. Biologically active additives for food. Manual.-M.: Publishing House “GEOTAR-MEDIA”, 2010.-664 p.)

• Probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, when introduced in adequate quantities, have a favorable effect on the host body. Prebiotics are indigestible food ingredients that contribute to the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. Together they are aimed at maintaining a healthy intestinal microflora. (FAO/Who. Health and Nutritional Properties of Probiotics in Food Including Powder Milk with Live Lactic Acid Bacteria. Report of a Joint FAO/Who Expert Consultation.

• Phytotherapeutic agents: Contain plant components with certain pharmacological properties. Can be used for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. It is important to note that herbal medicine requires caution and consultation with a specialist, since plant drugs can also have side effects and interact with other drugs. (Ernst E. Herbal Medicine: What a Physician Needs to Know. Ann Intern Med. 2002 Dec 3; 137 (8): 597-604.)

• Bades with minerals: They contain mineral substances necessary for the body, such as calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, etc. are used to replenish the deficit of minerals and maintain the normal operation of various organs and systems. (National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. Mineral Fact Sheets.)

• Bades with vitamins: Contain vitamins (A, B, C, D, E, K, etc.) in various forms and dosages. They are used for the prevention and treatment of hypo- and vitaminosis, as well as to maintain overall health. (National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. Vitamin Fact Sheets.)

The forms of prolonged dietary supplements are diverse and include tablets, capsules, powders, liquids, teas and bars. The choice of form depends on the composition of the dietary supplement, the method of its use and the preferences of the consumer.

II. Bad regulation

The regulation of dietary supplements is significantly different in different countries. In some countries, for example, in the USA, dietary supplements are regulated as food products, and not as drugs. This means that they do not go through the same strict quality control and effectiveness as medicines. In other countries, for example, in the European Union, the regulation of dietary supplements is more strict, but still less rigid than the regulation of drugs. (Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Dietary Supplements.)

The main aspects of the regulation of dietary supplements include:

• Registration: In most countries, dietary supplements are required to register their products in the relevant authorities. The registration procedure usually includes the provision of information on the composition of dietary supplements, its safety and efficiency. However, often registration is notifying and does not imply a full -fledged examination.

• Quality control: Quality control of dietary supplements is an important aspect of regulation. It includes verification of the compliance of the composition of the dietary supplement declared on the label, as well as the absence of harmful impurities and toxic substances in it. However, the quality control of dietary supplements can be less strict than the quality control of drugs.

• Marking: Marking of dietary supplements should contain information about the composition, method of application, contraindications and possible side effects. Also on the label it should be indicated that dietary supplements are not a drug and is not intended for the treatment of diseases. Often, the requirements for labeling of dietary supplements are less strict than the requirements for marking medicines.

• Advertising: Advertising of dietary supplements should be reliable and not mislead consumers regarding the properties and effectiveness of the product. It is forbidden to advertise dietary supplements as drugs or to argue that they can cure diseases. Control over the advertising of dietary supplements is carried out by the relevant authorities.

Differences in the regulation of dietary supplements in different countries create certain problems. For example, dietary supplements sold in one country can be prohibited in another due to differences in safety and efficiency requirements. This can lead to confusion and disinformation of consumers.

III. The composition of the dietary supplements

The composition of dietary supplements varies depending on their purpose and manufacturer. They can contain vitamins, minerals, amino acids, plant extracts, probiotics, prebiotics and other biologically active substances. However, the composition of dietary supplements can be unstable and change from party to party.

The main components of dietary supplements:

• Vitamins: Vitamins are organic compounds necessary for the normal functioning of the body. They participate in various metabolic processes, support the immune system and protect the cells from damage. Bades with vitamins are often used for the prevention and treatment of hypo- and vitaminosis. (National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. Vitamin Fact Sheets.)

• Minerals: Minerals are inorganic substances necessary for the health of bones, teeth, blood and other tissues. They also participate in the regulation of various physiological processes. Bades with minerals are used to replenish the deficiency of minerals and maintain the normal functioning of the body. (National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. Mineral Fact Sheets.)

• Amino acids: Amino acids are construction blocks of proteins. They are necessary for the growth, development and restoration of fabrics. Some amino acids are indispensable, that is, they cannot be synthesized by the body and should come with food. Amino acid dietary supplements are used to maintain muscle mass, improve sports results and restore after injuries. (Layman DK, et al. Defining Meal Requirements for Protein to Optimize Metabolic Roles of Amino Acids. Am J Clin Nutr. 2015; 101 (6): 1330S-8S.)

• Plant extracts: Plant extracts contain biologically active substances that have various pharmacological properties. They can be used for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. It is important to note that plant extracts can have side effects and interact with other drugs. (Ernst E. Herbal Medicine: What a Physician Needs to Know. Ann Intern Med. 2002 Dec 3; 137 (8): 597-604.)

• Probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, when introduced in adequate quantities, have a favorable effect on the host body. Prebiotics are indigestible food ingredients that contribute to the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. Bades with probiotics and prebiotics are used to maintain healthy intestinal microflora. (FAO/Who. Health and Nutritional Properties of Probiotics in Food Including Powder Milk with Live Lactic Acid Bacteria. Report of a Joint FAO/Who Expert Consultation.

• Other biologically active substances: Bades can also contain other biologically active substances, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3, omega-6), Q10 coenzyme, antioxidants, etc. These substances can have a positive effect on health and can be used to prevent various diseases.

The quality of dietary supplements depends on many factors, including the quality of raw materials, compliance with production technology and quality control of finished products. Poor -quality dietary supplements may contain harmful impurities, toxic substances, or not compliance with the declared composition. Therefore, it is important to choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers with a good reputation.

IV. The effectiveness of dietary supplements

The effectiveness of dietary supplements is the subject of discussions. Some studies show that dietary supplements can be effective for the prevention and treatment of certain diseases, while other studies do not detect any benefit. It is important to note that most dietary supplements have restrictions and require further study.

The evidence base of the effectiveness of dietary supplements varies depending on the specific product and its purpose. Some dietary supplements, such as vitamin D and folic acid, have a strong evidence base and are recommended for use in certain cases. Other dietary supplements, such as many plant extracts and homeopathic remedies, have a weak evidence base or do not have it at all.

Examples of dietary supplements with confirmed effectiveness:

• Vitamin D: It is necessary for the health of bones and the immune system. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis, rickets and other diseases. It is recommended for the prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency, especially in the winter season and for people with limited sun stay. (Holick Mf. Vitamin D Deficiency. N English J Med. 2007 Jul 19; 357 (3): 266-81.)

• Folic acid: It is necessary for the development of the nervous system of the fetus. Recommended for admission to women planning pregnancy, and in the first trimester of pregnancy to prevent defects in the nervous tube in the fetus. (De Benoist B, et al. Folate Intervents and Blood Folate Concentrations in Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Angasis. BMJ. 2008 Mar 8; 336 (7644): 593-600.)

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Useful for the health of the heart and blood vessels. They can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke. Recommended for people with a high risk of cardiovascular diseases. (KRIS -Therton PM, et al. Fish Consumption, Fish Oil, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Cardiovascular Disease. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2003 Feb 1; 23 (2): E20-7.)

• Probiotics: It can be useful for the treatment and prevention of certain diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as diarrhea caused by antibiotics and irritable intestinal syndrome. However, the effectiveness of probiotics depends on a specific strain and dose. (Goldenberg JZ, et al. Probiotics for the Prevention and Treatment of Clostridium Difficile-SSOCIATED DIARRHEA: A SYSTEMATIC Review and META-ANALISIS. 1; 158 (2): W125-35.)

Examples of dietary supplements with unproven or doubtful efficiency:

• Homeopathic remedies: Based on the principle of “semblance of similar” and contain extremely low doses of active substance. Numerous studies did not show the effectiveness of homeopathic remedies compared to placebo. (Ernst E. A Systematic Review of Systematic Reviews of Homeopathy. Am J Med. 2002 Jul 15; 113 (1-2): 13-20.)

• Many plant extracts: Despite the fact that some plant extracts have traditional use in medicine, their effectiveness is often not confirmed by scientific research. Some plant extracts can be dangerous and interact with other drugs.

A placebo effect can play a role in the perceived effectiveness of dietary supplements. A placebo effect is an improvement in the state of health caused not by the action of the drug itself, but by faith in its effectiveness. It is important to consider the placebo effect when assessing the effectiveness of dietary supplements.

A critical analysis of information about dietary supplements is crucial. Consumers should be skeptical of advertising statements about the miraculous properties of dietary supplements and rely on the scientific data and recommendations of doctors.

V. The safety of dietary supplements

The safety of dietary supplements is an important aspect of their use. Despite the fact that dietary supplements are often positioned as “natural” and “safe”, they can cause side effects and interact with other drugs. It is important to consider potential risks associated with the use of dietary supplements.

Side effects of dietary supplements can be different, from lungs (for example, stomach disorder, headache) to serious (for example, liver damage, allergic reactions). The risk of side effects depends on the composition of the dietary supplement, dose, individual characteristics of the body and the presence of concomitant diseases.

The interaction of dietary supplements with drugs can lead to a change in their effectiveness or enhance side effects. For example, some dietary supplements can affect blood coagulation, which can be dangerous when taking anticoagulants. It is important to inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements in order to avoid undesirable interactions.

Risk factors for the development of side effects of dietary supplements include:

• High doses: Reception of dietary supplements in high doses can increase the risk of side effects. It is important to follow the recommended doses indicated on the packaging.

• Long -term use: Long -term use of dietary supplements can lead to the development of side effects, especially when taking high doses.

• The presence of concomitant diseases: People with concomitant diseases, such as liver, kidneys or heart diseases, have an increased risk of side effects of dietary supplements.

• Reception of other drugs: Taking other drugs can increase the risk of interaction with dietary supplements and the development of side effects.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Reception of dietary supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding can be dangerous to the health of the mother and baby. It is necessary to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements during this period.

Examples of potentially dangerous dietary supplements:

• Dietary diets for weight loss containing sibutramin: Sibutramin is a prohibited substance that can cause serious side effects, such as increasing blood pressure, pulse increased and heart attacks.

• Dietary supplements to increase potency containing sildenafil (Viagra) or its analogues: Sildenafil and its analogues are prescription drugs that can cause side effects, such as headache, dizziness and decreased blood pressure. The use of these substances without consulting a doctor can be dangerous.

• Bades containing heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium): Heavy metals are toxic substances that can accumulate in the body and cause serious diseases.

The message about the side effects of dietary supplements is important. Patients who have side effects after admission of dietary supplement should inform the doctor and the relevant quality control authorities. This will help to identify potentially dangerous dietary supplements and prevent further cases of side effects.

VI. Legal aspects of dietary supplements

The legal regulation of dietary supplements has its own characteristics and differs from the regulation of drugs. In most countries, dietary supplements are regulated as food products, and not as drugs. This means that they do not go through the same strict quality control and effectiveness as medicines.

Responsibility for the quality and safety of dietary supplements lies with the manufacturer. The manufacturer is obliged to guarantee that the dietary supplement corresponds to the declared composition, does not contain harmful impurities and is safe for use. However, monitoring compliance with these requirements may be insufficient.

The consequences of non -compliance with the quality and safety requirements can be serious. The manufacturer can be brought to administrative or criminal liability, and dietary supplements can be removed from the sale. Consumers affected by poor -quality dietary supplements can be sued the manufacturer with a request for damages.

Protection of consumer rights in the acquisition of dietary supplements is carried out in accordance with the legislation on the protection of consumer rights. Consumers have the right to receive reliable information about the composition, properties and safety of Bad, as well as to return goods of inadequate quality.

Judicial precedents associated with dietary supplements show that consumers can successfully defend their rights in court if they have been harmful to health as a result of the use of poor -quality Bad. However, prove to prove the causal relationship between the intake of Bad and the disease that has arisen can be difficult.

Problems of legal regulation of dietary supplements include:

• Lack of quality control: Quality control of dietary supplements is often less strict than the quality control of drugs. This can lead to the emergence of poor -quality and dangerous dietary supplements on the market.

• Inaccurate advertising: Advertising of dietary supplements often contains inaccurate information about the properties and effectiveness of the product. This can mislead consumers and encourage them to acquire unnecessary or even harmful dietary supplements.

• Lack of single standards: The absence of unified standards for regulation of dietary supplements in different countries creates problems for international trade and protection of consumer rights.

The need to improve the legal regulation of dietary supplements is obvious. It is necessary to strengthen quality control, tighten the requirements for advertising and develop unified international standards. This will increase the safety of dietary supplements and protect consumer rights.

VII. Alternative approaches to maintaining health

Bades are not the only way to maintain health. There are alternative approaches that can be more effective and safe.

Balanced nutrition is the basis of health. The diet should contain a sufficient amount of vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats and carbohydrates. It is important to use a variety of products, including fruits, vegetables, cereals, meat, fish and dairy products.

Regular physical activity is necessary to maintain the health of the heart and blood vessels, strengthen bones and muscles, as well as for weight control. It is recommended to engage in physical exercises at least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity or 75 minutes a week of high intensity.

A healthy lifestyle includes the rejection of smoking and alcohol abuse, sufficient sleep and stress management. These factors have a significant effect on health and can reduce the risk of developing many diseases.

Preventive medical examinations allow you to identify diseases in the early stages and start treatment in a timely manner. It is recommended to regularly visit a doctor to conduct examinations and take tests in accordance with age and sex.

Consultation with a doctor or nutritionist will help to develop an individual nutrition and physical activity plan, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body and health status.

An integrative approach to health involves a combination of traditional medicine and alternative treatment methods. It can include the use of dietary supplements, but only as prescribed by a doctor and under his control.

The independent use of dietary supplements without consulting a doctor can be dangerous. It is important to remember that dietary supplements are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. They can be useful as an addition to a healthy lifestyle, but should not replace full nutrition, physical activity and medical care.

The correct use of dietary supplements involves compliance with recommended doses, accounting of contraindications and possible side effects, as well as informing the doctor about all the dietary supplements.

VIII. Conclusion

Bades can be a useful addition to the diet and a healthy lifestyle, but should not be considered as a replacement for drugs or full nutrition. It is important to remember potential risks associated with the use of dietary supplements, and consult a doctor before their use.