Bad and oncology: are there risks

Bad and oncology: Are there risks?

Part 1: Understanding of dietary supplements and their regulatory framework

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances, designed for direct intake with food or introduction into food products in order to enrich the ration with individual food or biologically active substances or their complexes, as well as to maintain normal or restore impaired body functions. They are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. This is a fundamental difference, which often leads to misunderstanding and incorrect use of dietary supplements, especially in the context of serious diseases, such as oncology.

1.1. Classification of dietary supplements:

Bad can be classified according to various signs:

• By composition:

  • Vitamins and minerals: Contain separate vitamins (for example, vitamin D, vitamin C) or minerals (for example, calcium, iron), as well as their complexes.
  • Herbal additives (herbal preparations): Contain extracts, tinctures, powders from medicinal plants. Examples: echinacea, ginseng, milk thistle.
  • Probiotics and prebiotics: Contain living microorganisms (probiotics) or substances that contribute to their growth (prebiotics) in the intestines.
  • Amino acids and peptides: They contain separate amino acids (for example, L-carnitine, glutamine) or short amino acid chains (peptides).
  • Fatty acids: Contain polyunsaturated fatty acids (for example, omega-3, omega-6).
  • Enzymes: Contain enzymes that contribute to digestion or other biochemical processes.
  • Beekeeping products: They contain the components produced by bees, such as propolis, royal jelly, bee pollen.
  • Other: Different substances that are not related to the above, for example, coenzyme Q10, chondroitin, glucosamine, fall into this category.

• By the form of release:

  • Capsules: Gelatin membranes containing powder or oil.
  • Tablets: Fressed powder.
  • Liquids: Solutions, syrups, tinctures.
  • Powders: For dissolution in water or adding to food.
  • Chewing tablets/loaf: For resorption in the mouth.

• For the purpose:

  • To strengthen immunity.
  • To improve digestion.
  • To maintain health of the cardiovascular system.
  • To increase energy and performance.
  • To improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails.
  • To maintain joint health.

1.2. Normative regulation of dietary supplements:

Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not go through strict clinical trials to prove their effectiveness and safety. In most countries, including Russia, the regulation of dietary supplements is carried out at the level of sanitary and epidemiological supervision. This means that the manufacturer must provide documents confirming the safety of the product, as well as the compliance of the composition with the declared ingredients. However, control over the effectiveness of dietary supplements is usually not carried out.

1.2.1. Normative documents in Russia:

• Federal Law of 02.01.2000 N 29-ФЗ “On the quality and safety of food products”.
• Technical Regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 021/2011 “On food safety”.
• Technical regulations of the Customs Union TR TS 022/2011 “Food products regarding its marking.”
• SanPiN 2.3.2.1290-03 “Hygienic requirements for the organization of production and turnover of biologically active additives to food (dietary supplements).”

These documents determine the requirements for production, packaging, labeling and sales of dietary supplements. Particular attention is paid to the safety of products and the prevention of misleading consumers regarding the properties and characteristics of dietary supplements.

1.2.2. Bad registration procedure:

To obtain permission for the production and sale of dietary supplements, the manufacturer must go through the state registration procedure. Within the framework of this procedure, an examination of the submitted documents is carried out, including:

• The composition of the product.
• Production technology.
• Safety justification.
• Instructions for use.
• The results of laboratory research.

Based on the results of the examination, a certificate of state registration is issued, which is the basis for legal production and sale of dietary supplements. However, it is important to understand that state registration is not a guarantee of product effectiveness. It only confirms that the product meets the established safety requirements.

1.3. Problems of normative regulation:

The existing system of regulation of dietary supplements has a number of disadvantages:

• Lack of strict clinical trials: As a rule, large -scale clinical trials are not required to prove the effectiveness of dietary supplements. This opens up opportunities for unscrupulous advertising and promotion of products with unproven properties.
• Weak control over the composition: It is often difficult to verify the correspondence of the actual composition of the dietary supplement to the declared on the package. There are cases when dietary supplements contain impurities, prohibited substances or ingredients that are not indicated on the label.
• Insufficient liability of manufacturers: The responsibility of dietary supplement manufacturers for inaccurate information about the product or for causing harm to consumer health is often limited.
• The problem of Internet trade: A large number of dietary supplements are sold via the Internet, which complicates control over their quality and safety.

These shortcomings create risks for consumers, especially for people suffering from serious diseases, such as cancer. In this situation, self -medication of dietary supplements can lead to negative consequences.

Part 2: risks associated with the use of dietary supplements in oncological diseases

The use of dietary supplements with patients with cancer is a complex and multifaceted problem. On the one hand, some dietary supplements can have a supporting effect by helping to cope with the side effects of treatment or improve the general condition of the body. On the other hand, the uncontrolled use of dietary supplements can pose a serious threat to health, reduce the effectiveness of treatment and even contribute to the progression of the disease.

2.1. Interaction with antitumor therapy:

One of the main risks associated with the use of dietary supplements in cancer is their potential interaction with antitumor therapy. Many dietary supplements contain substances that can change the metabolism of drugs, influence their absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion from the body. This can lead to:

• Reducing the effectiveness of treatment: Some dietary supplements can reduce the concentration of antitumor drugs in the blood, thereby reducing their effectiveness. For example, the St. John’s wort, a perforated (Hypericum Perforatum) is a powerful inducer of liver enzymes that metabolize many drugs, including chemotherapeutic agents. With the simultaneous use of St. John’s wort and chemotherapy, the concentration of the antitumor drug in the blood can decrease significantly, which will lead to a decrease in the effectiveness of treatment.
• Strengthening toxicity: Some dietary supplements can increase the concentration of antitumor drugs in the blood, which can lead to increased toxicity and the development of serious side effects. For example, grapefruit juice contains substances that inhibit liver enzymes that metabolizing many drugs. With the simultaneous use of grapefruit juice and chemotherapy, the concentration of the antitumor drug in the blood can increase significantly, which will lead to increased toxicity and the development of side effects.
• Change in pharmacodynamics: Some dietary supplements can change the pharmacodynamics of antitumor drugs, that is, influence their mechanism of action. For example, antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, can protect tumor cells from the damaging effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, thereby reducing the effectiveness of treatment.

In this regard, patients with oncological diseases must be informed to their attending physician about all the dietary supplements that they accept or plan to take. The doctor will be able to evaluate the potential risks of the interaction of dietary supplements with antitumor therapy and give recommendations for their use.

2.2. Direct effect on tumor growth:

Some dietary supplements can have a direct effect on tumor growth, contributing to its progression. For example, some studies have shown that high doses of antioxidants can stimulate the growth of tumor cells and metastasis. This is due to the fact that tumor cells use antioxidants to protect against oxidative stress, which occurs in the process of their active division.

In addition, some dietary supplements contain substances that can stimulate angiogenesis – the formation of new blood vessels that feed the tumor. This can contribute to the growth of the tumor and its metastasis.

It is important to understand that the influence of dietary supplements on tumor growth is a complex and insufficiently studied issue. The research results are often contradictory and depend on the type of tumor, the stage of the disease, dose of bad and other factors. In this regard, it is necessary to be careful about the use of dietary supplements for oncological diseases and avoid self -medication.

2.3. False hopes and rejection of traditional treatment:

One of the most dangerous risks associated with the use of dietary supplements in cancer is the formation of false hopes for cure. Unscrupulous manufacturers and sellers of dietary supplements often use aggressive advertising to convince patients of the miraculous properties of their products. They promise to cure cancer, strengthen immunity and prevent relapse.

Under the influence of such advertising, patients can abandon traditional treatment, which has proven their effectiveness, and rely only on dietary supplements. This leads to a loss of time, the progression of the disease and a decrease in the chances of recovery.

It is important to understand that today there are no dietary supplements that could cure cancer. Traditional methods of treatment, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and targeted therapy, remain the main ways to combat cancer. Bades can only be used as an auxiliary agent, after consulting a doctor and under his control.

2.4. Unknown composition and impurities:

As noted earlier, the composition of dietary supplements does not always correspond to the declared on the package. There are cases when dietary supplements contain impurities, prohibited substances or ingredients that are not indicated on the label. This is a serious danger to patients with cancer, whose immune system is weakened by disease and treatment.

For example, some dietary supplements may contain heavy metals, pesticides, bacteria or fungi. These impurities can cause allergic reactions, poisoning, infections and other side effects. In addition, some dietary supplements may contain hormonal drugs that can have an unpredictable effect on the body, especially in patients with hormone -dependent tumors.

To avoid these risks, it is necessary to buy dietary supplements only from trusted manufacturers and sellers who are licensed to carry out pharmaceutical activity. Before using dietary supplements, it is necessary to carefully study the composition of the product and make sure that there are no contraindications.

2.5. Allergic reactions and other side effects:

Like any other substances, dietary supplements can cause allergic reactions and other side effects. In patients with oncological diseases receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy, the risk of developing side effects from dietary supplements is especially high, since their body is weakened by treatment.

The most common side effects of dietary supplements include:

• Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema, anaphylactic shock.
• Digestive disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain.
• Headaches.
• Dizziness.
• Increasing blood pressure.
• Heart rhythm disturbances.
• Disorders of the liver and kidneys.

If any side effects appear after taking a dietary supplement, it is necessary to immediately stop its use and consult a doctor.

Part 3: dietary supplements potentially dangerous for cancer patients

There are a number of dietary supplements that are especially not recommended for use by patients with cancer, due to their potential danger and lack of proven effectiveness. This list is not exhaustive, and before using any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor.

3.1. High doses of antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene):

Although antioxidants play an important role in protecting cells from damage, high doses of these substances can have a negative effect on the course of cancer. As mentioned earlier, tumor cells use antioxidants to protect against oxidative stress, which occurs in the process of their active division. In addition, some studies have shown that high doses of antioxidants can stimulate the growth of tumor cells and metastasis.

In this regard, patients with cancer are not recommended to take high doses of antioxidants without consulting a doctor. The dose of vitamin C is not more than 1000 mg per day, vitamin E-no more than 400 IU per day, beta-carotene-no more than 25,000 IU per day.

3.2. St. John’s wort permeated (Hypericum Perforatum):

St. John’s wort is a powerful inducer of liver enzymes that metabolize many drugs, including chemotherapeutic drugs. With the simultaneous use of St. John’s wort and chemotherapy, the concentration of the antitumor drug in the blood can decrease significantly, which will lead to a decrease in the effectiveness of treatment. St. John’s wort can also interact with antidepressants, anticoagulants and other drugs.

3.3. Solo root (Glycyrhiza Glabra):

The root of the licorice contains glycyrisic acid, which can increase blood pressure, retain the fluid in the body and cause hypokalemia (decreased potassium in the blood). These side effects can be especially dangerous for patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy, since these treatment methods can also cause electrolyte balance and cardiovascular problems.

3.4. Coenzim Q10 (COQ10):

Coenzym Q10 is an antioxidant that is involved in the production of energy in cells. Some studies have shown that COQ10 can improve the condition of patients with some types of cancer. However, other studies did not reveal any benefit from the use of COQ10 for oncological diseases. In addition, COQ10 can interact with some drugs such as warfarin.

In this regard, patients with cancer are not recommended to take COQ10 without consulting a doctor.

3.5. Echinacea (Echinacea):

Echinacea is an immunostimulant, which is used to prevent and treat colds. However, with cancer, the use of echinacea can be undesirable, since it can stimulate the growth of tumor cells. In addition, echinacea can interact with some drugs.

3.6. High doses of calcium:

High dose of calcium can increase the risk of hypercalcemia (increasing blood calcium levels), which can be dangerous for patients with some types of cancer, such as breast cancer, lung cancer and kidney cancer. Hypercalcemia can cause weakness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, constipation, bone pain and other symptoms.

3.7. Iron:

The use of iron without obvious indications (for example, with iron deficiency anemia) can be undesirable for patients with cancer. Iron can stimulate the growth of tumor cells and contribute to their metastasis.

3.8. Bades containing hormones or hormone -like substances:

The use of dietary supplements containing hormones or hormone -like substances is contraindicated in patients with hormone -dependent tumors, such as breast cancer, prostate cancer and ovarian cancer. These substances can stimulate the growth of tumor cells and contribute to the progression of the disease. An example of such a Bad is DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone).

3.9. Unverified “anti -cancer” dietary supplements:

There are many dietary supplements on the market that are positioned as “anti -cancer” means. However, most of these products have no proven effectiveness and can be dangerous to health. They often contain unproven ingredients, do not correspond to the declared composition or contain harmful impurities. Examples: Amigdalin (vitamin B17, Laetril), cantaxantan. Relying on such products is dangerous and can lead to loss of time and the progression of the disease.

Part 4: how to take dietary supplements safely for oncology: recommendations

If a patient with an oncological disease is considering the possibility of taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to comply with certain rules and recommendations in order to minimize risks and get the maximum benefit:

4.1. Mandatory consultation with a doctor:

Before taking any dietary supplement, it is necessary to consult with the attending physician. The doctor will be able to evaluate potential risks and benefits from the use of dietary supplements, taking into account the type of tumor, the stage of the disease, treatment and individual characteristics of the patient. The doctor will also be able to check the interaction of dietary supplements with other drugs that the patient takes.

4.2. Choosing a quality product:

It is necessary to buy dietary supplements only from trusted manufacturers and sellers licensed for pharmaceutical activity. Before buying, you must carefully study the product label and make sure that it does not contain prohibited substances, hormones or other potentially dangerous ingredients. It is advisable to choose products that have undergone an independent quality examination.

4.3. Strictly compliance with the dosage:

It is necessary to strictly observe the dosage indicated on the product label or recommended by the doctor. The recommended dose should not exceed, as this can lead to the development of side effects. In the event of any side effects, after taking a dietary supplement, it is necessary to immediately stop its use and consult a doctor.

4.4. Informing a doctor about all accepted dietary supplements:

The patient must inform his attending physician about all the dietary supplements that he accepts or plans to accept, as well as any changes in his state of health. This will allow the doctor to timely identify possible side effects and adjust the treatment.

4.5. Evaluation of effectiveness:

It is necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of dietary supplements throughout the entire period of its application. If the dietary supplement has no positive effect or causes side effects, it is necessary to stop its use and discuss other treatment options with the doctor.

4.6. Critical attitude to advertising:

You should not trust aggressive advertising of dietary supplements, promising to cure cancer or other miraculous effects. It is important to remember that today there are no dietary supplements that could cure cancer. Traditional treatment methods remain the main ways to combat cancer.

4.7. Using dietary supplements only as an auxiliary agent:

Bades can only be used as an auxiliary means to maintain the general condition of the body, reduce side effects of treatment or improve the quality of life. They should not replace traditional methods of treatment, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and targeted therapy.

4.8. Caution with herbs:

Herbal additives may seem harmless, but they contain biologically active substances that can interact with drugs or have an undesirable effect on the body. It is necessary to be especially careful with herbs, such as St. John’s wort, the root of the licorice, echinacea and others that can affect the metabolism of drugs or stimulate the immune system.

4.9. Focus on a healthy lifestyle:

Instead of relying on dietary supplements, it is necessary to focus on a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, regular physical exercises, the rejection of smoking and drinking alcohol, as well as sufficient sleep. A healthy lifestyle can help strengthen the immune system, reduce the risk of side effects of treatment and improve the general condition of the body.

4.10. Alternative approaches:

Consider other supporting methods such as acupuncture, massage, yoga and meditation that can help cope with stress, improve sleep quality and reduce side effects of treatment. However, before using these methods, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Part 5: Review of research on the influence of some dietary supplements on oncology

Many studies are trying to assess the influence of specific dietary supplements on cancer. It is important to note that the results of these studies are often contradictory and require further study.

• Curcumin: Studies in vitro and animals have shown that Kurkumin, an active turbine ingredient, has anti -inflammatory, antioxidant and antitumor properties. However, clinical trials in public gave ambiguous results. Some studies have shown that curcumin can improve the quality of life of patients with cancer, reduce side effects of treatment and even slow down the tumor growth. Other studies have not revealed any benefit from the use of curcumin. The problem is the low bioavailability of turcumin, which makes it difficult to absorb its body.
• Vitamin D: Some studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of developing some types of cancer, such as colon cancer, breast cancer and prostate cancer. However, the results of studies on the impact of vitamin D on the course of oncological diseases are contradictory. Some studies have shown that vitamin D intake can reduce the risk of cancer, other studies have not revealed any benefit. Further research is needed to determine the optimal dose of vitamin D and its role in the prevention and treatment of cancer.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Some studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can improve the quality of life of patients with cancer, reduce side effects of treatment and even slow down the tumor growth. However, other studies did not reveal any benefit from the use of omega-3 fatty acids.
• Probiotics: Probiotics can improve the condition of the intestinal microflora and strengthen the immune system. Some studies have shown that probiotics can reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, such as diarrhea and nausea. However, other studies have not revealed any benefit from the use of probiotics in cancer. It is important to choose probiotics containing viable and clinically studied strains of bacteria.
• Selenium: Selenium is an important trace element that is involved in the antioxidant protection of the body. Some studies have shown that selenium can reduce the risk of developing some types of cancer, such as lung cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer. However, the results of studies on the impact of selenium intake on the course of oncological diseases are contradictory. It is important not to exceed the recommended dose of selenium, as this can lead to the development of toxicity.
• Ganoderma Lucidum): Studies have shown that Reishi’s fungus has immunomodulating and antitumor properties. Some studies on animals and in vitro showed that Reishi mushroom extracts can slow down tumor cell growth and stimulate the immune response. However, clinical trials in people gave limited results. Some studies have shown that Reishi mushroom can improve the quality of life of patients with cancer, but other studies have not revealed any benefit.
• Milk thistle (Silybum Marianum): The milk thistle contains silimarin, which has hepatoprotective properties. Some studies have shown that silimarin can protect the liver from the damaging effect of chemotherapy. However, other studies did not reveal any benefit from the use of milk thistle for cancer.
• Cat Claw (Uncaria Tomentosa): Cat claw has immunostimulating and anti -inflammatory properties. Some studies have shown that cat claw can improve the quality of life of patients with cancer and reduce the side effects of treatment. However, other studies did not reveal any benefit from the use of a cat’s claw. Catfish can interact with some drugs.

In conclusion, it should be noted that the effect of dietary supplements on cancer is a complex and insufficiently studied area. The research results are often contradictory and require further study. It is important to approach the use of dietary supplements with caution and consult a doctor to evaluate potential risks and benefits. You should not rely on dietary supplements as the main means of treating cancer, but use them only as an auxiliary agent, after consulting a doctor and under his control.

Part 6: Future research areas

Future research in the field of dietary supplements and oncology should be directed to:

• Conducting large -scale clinical trials: It is necessary to conduct large -scale clinical trials using randomized controlled studies to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of specific dietary supplements with various types of cancer.
• Study of action mechanisms: It is necessary to study in more detail the mechanisms of the action of dietary supplements at the molecular level in order to understand how they affect the tumor cells and the immune system.
• Determination of optimal dosages: It is necessary to determine the optimal dosages of dietary supplements to achieve maximum efficiency and minimal risk of side effects.
• Study of interaction with drugs: It is necessary to study the interaction of dietary supplements with antitumor drugs in order to avoid reducing the effectiveness of treatment and increased toxicity.
• Personalized approach: It is necessary to develop personalized approaches to the use of dietary supplements, taking into account the type of tumor, the stage of the disease, the genetic characteristics of the patient and the treatment.
• Improving regulatory regulation: It is necessary to improve normative regulation of dietary supplements in order to ensure their safety and quality, as well as prevent unscrupulous advertising and promotion of products with unproven properties.
• Development of biomarkers: The development of biomarkers that will allow you to predict which of the patients will benefit from the use of a particular dietary supplement.

Only thanks to high -quality studies and improving the regulatory framework it will be possible to give reasonable recommendations for the use of dietary supplements in cancer and ensure the safety of patients.