Myths and truth about dietary supplements for women’s health

Myths and truth about dietary supplements for women’s health

Section 1: Understanding of biologically active additives (dietary supplements) and their role

1. Definition and classification of dietary supplements: Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances, designed for direct intake or introduction into food products in order to enrich the ration with individual food or biologically active substances and their complexes. Classification of dietary supplements includes:

   • Nutricevtiki: Sources of food substances (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, dietary fiber) to optimize nutrition.
   • Parafarmetzetics: Means used for prevention, auxiliary therapy and maintaining the functional activity of organs and systems. They contain substances that have a soft, regulatory effect on the body.
   • Probiotics and prebiotics: Living microorganisms and substances that contribute to the growth of beneficial intestinal microflora.

2. Adjustment of dietary supplements in Russia and other countries: In Russia, BAD is regulated by Federal Law No. 29-FZ “On the quality and safety of food products” and sanitary-epidemiological rules and standards (SanPiN). Production and implementation of dietary supplements require state registration confirming their safety and compliance with the established requirements. In other countries (USA, Europe) there are regulation systems, for example, Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) in the USA. Differences in regulation can lead to different accessibility and quality of dietary supplements in different markets. It is important to check the availability of certificates and permits when buying.

3. Differences of dietary supplements and drugs: The main difference is the purpose of application and the level of evidence base. Medicines are intended for the treatment of diseases and undergo strict clinical trials to confirm effectiveness and safety. The dietary supplement is designed to maintain health, preventing diseases and nutrition optimization. The requirements for evidence for dietary supplements are much lower than for drugs. Often the effectiveness of dietary supplements is confirmed not by clinical research, but by data on traditional use or individual scientific publications. Bad cannot replace full treatment prescribed by a doctor.

4. The role of dietary supplements in maintaining women’s health: Bad can play an auxiliary role in maintaining female health, especially during periods of increased need for nutrients (pregnancy, lactation, menopause), with a deficiency of certain substances in the diet or in the presence of certain conditions requiring additional support. For example, folic acid is important for the prevention of defects in the nerve tube in the fetus, calcium and vitamin D are necessary to maintain bone health, and iron for the prevention of anemia. However, it is important to remember that dietary supplements are not a panacea and should be used in combination with proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.

Section 2: common myths about dietary supplements for women’s health

1. Myth: Bad is a natural alternative to drugs: Many consumers mistakenly believe that dietary supplements are safe and natural replacement of drugs. This is not always the case. Firstly, not all dietary supplements contain only natural ingredients. Secondly, even natural substances can cause side effects and interact with drugs. Thirdly, the effectiveness of dietary supplements is often not confirmed by clinical research. It is important to remember that dietary supplements are not intended for the treatment of serious diseases and cannot replace consultation with a doctor.

2. Myth: The more, the better (high doses of vitamins are always useful): An overdose of vitamins and minerals can be dangerous to health. For example, an excess of vitamin A can lead to toxic effects, and an excess of iron to organs. It is important to observe the recommended doses indicated on the package of dietary supplements and consult a doctor before taking high doses.

3. Myth: Bad is guaranteed to cure all diseases: Marketing campaigns often exaggerate the effectiveness of dietary supplements, promising to get rid of various diseases. However, dietary supplements do not have healing properties and cannot cure diseases. They can only support the body and improve the general health of health.

4. Myth: All dietary supplement is equally effective and safe: The quality and safety of dietary supplements can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer, composition and production conditions. Some dietary supplements may contain impurities that are not indicated on the label, or contain active substances in insufficient or excess concentration. It is important to choose a dietary supplement from trusted manufacturers with a good reputation and comply with quality standards.

5. Myth: BAD have no side effects: Even natural substances can cause side effects, especially with improper use or in the presence of individual intolerance. Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines, enhancing or weakening their effect. Before taking dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you take any medicine or have chronic diseases.

6. Myth: Bad is a waste of money: In some cases, dietary supplements can really be useless, especially if they are taken without the need or in the absence of a deficiency of certain substances. However, in certain situations, such as pregnancy, lactation, menopause, or in the presence of a confirmed deficit, dietary supplements can be useful for maintaining health. It is important to approach the choice of dietary supplements consciously and consult a doctor or a nutritionist to determine the need to receive them.

Section 3: Truth about the most common dietary supplements for women’s health

1. Folic acid (vitamin B9): Folic acid plays an important role in the development of the nervous system of the fetus and is necessary for the prevention of defects in the nervous tube. It is recommended to start taking folic acid 1-3 months before the planned pregnancy and continue during the first trimester. Additionally, folic acid is important for cell division and maintaining health of the cardiovascular system. Folic acid deficiency can lead to anemia and other health problems.

2. Iron: Women are more susceptible to iron deficiency, especially during menstruation, pregnancy and lactation. Iron is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, carrying oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency leads to iron deficiency anemia, manifested by fatigue, weakness, pallor of the skin and other symptoms. Reception of iron additives should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor, since an overdose of iron can be dangerous.

3. Calcium and vitamin D: Calcium is necessary to maintain the health of bones and teeth, and vitamin D helps to absorb calcium. Women, especially during menopause, are at risk of developing osteoporosis – a disease characterized by a decrease in bone density. Reception of calcium and vitamin D additives can help prevent osteoporosis and reduce the risk of fractures. It is important to consider that an excess of calcium can lead to the formation of stones in the kidneys.

4. Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA, are important for the health of the cardiovascular system, brain and vision. They also have anti -inflammatory properties. Pregnant women are recommended to take Omega-3 additives to maintain the development of the brain and vision of the fetus. Omega-3 can also help reduce the risk of depression and other mental disorders.

5. Probiotics: Probiotics are living microorganisms that benefit health, improving the composition of the intestinal microflora. In women, probiotics can be useful for the prevention and treatment of vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis. Probiotics can also improve digestion, strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

6. B vitamins B: B vitamins play an important role in the metabolism, the work of the nervous system and maintain the health of the skin and hair. B vitamins deficiency can lead to fatigue, irritability, problems with skin and other symptoms. Vitamin B12 is especially important for vegetarians and vegans, as it is contained mainly in animal products.

7. Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in many biochemical processes in the body, including the regulation of blood pressure, blood sugar and muscle and nerves. Magnesium deficiency can lead to muscle cramps, fatigue, headaches and other symptoms. Magnesium can also help reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

8. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage to free radicals. It is also necessary for the synthesis of collagen that strengthens the skin, bones and blood vessels. Vitamin C strengthens the immunity and helps to fight infections.

9. Plant extracts (for example, cranberries, soy, red clover): Some plant extracts can be useful for maintaining female health. For example, cranberry extract is used to prevent urinary tract infections, soy and red clover extract contain phytoestrogens that can help reduce the symptoms of menopause. It is important to consider that the efficiency and safety of plant extracts may vary depending on the manufacturer and dosage.

Section 4: How to choose the right and use dietary supplement for women’s health

1. Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any chronic diseases or take any medicine. The doctor will help to determine which dietary supplement you need, and choose the optimal dosage.

2. The choice of a reliable manufacturer: Choose a dietary supplement from trusted manufacturers with a good reputation and comply with quality standards. Pay attention to the availability of certificates of conformity and other permits.

3. Study of composition and dosage: Carefully study the composition of dietary supplements and make sure that they do not contain the ingredients that you are allergic to. Follow the recommended dosage indicated on the packaging. Do not exceed the dose without consulting a doctor.

4. Checking for the presence of side effects and interactions with drugs: Learn about the possible side effects and interactions of dietary supplements with the medicines that you take. If you notice any undesirable reactions, stop taking dietary supplements and consult a doctor.

5. A combination of dietary supplements with proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle: Bad should not replace good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Eat in a balanced, play sports, get enough sleep and avoid stress.

6. Dad storage: Keep the dietary supplement in accordance with the instructions on the packaging, in dry, cool and inaccessible place for children.

7. Evaluation of effectiveness: Evaluate the effectiveness of dietary supplements some time after the start of admission. If you have not noticed any improvements, consult your doctor about the appropriateness of further admission.

Section 5: Bad and special periods of a woman’s life

1. Pregnancy and lactation: During pregnancy and lactation, the need for certain nutrients increases. Folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids and other vitamins and minerals can be useful for maintaining the health of the mother and child. Before taking any dietary supplements during pregnancy and lactation, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

2. Menopause: During the period of menopause, women experience a decrease in estrogen levels, which can lead to various symptoms, such as ebbs, night sweating, insomnia, dry vagina and mood changes. Some dietary supplements containing phytoestrogens (for example, soy and red clover extracts) can help reduce these symptoms. Calcium and vitamin D are important for the prevention of osteoporosis.

3. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS): Some dietary supplements, such as magnesium, vitamin B6 and omega-3 fatty acids, can help reduce PMS symptoms, such as irritability, bloating, breast soreness and mood changes.

4. Reproductive health: Some dietary supplements, such as folic acid, vitamin E and selenium, can be useful for maintaining reproductive health and improving fertility. However, it is important to remember that dietary supplements cannot replace the treatment of infertility prescribed by a doctor.

Section 6: New research and prospects in the field of dietary supplements for women’s health

1. Personalized approach to the choice of dietary supplements: The development of genetic tests allows you to determine individual needs for nutrients and choose dietary supplements taking into account the genetic characteristics.

2. Microbia and women’s health: Studies show that the microbia of the vagina and intestines plays an important role in female health. New probiotics and prebiotics are being developed aimed at maintaining the health of microbioma and the prevention of various diseases.

3. Nanotechnology in the production of dietary supplements: Nanotechnology can improve the digestibility and bioavailability of biologically active substances contained in dietary supplements.

4. Studies of the effectiveness of plant extracts: New clinical studies are conducted to assess the efficiency and safety of plant extracts used to maintain female health.

5. Development of new dietary supplements, taking into account age -related features: Dad is developed, specially designed for women of different age groups, taking into account their specific needs for nutrients.

Section 7: Conclusion

Bad can play an auxiliary role in maintaining women’s health, but it is important to approach their choice and use consciously and responsibly. Consultation with a doctor, choosing a reliable manufacturer, studying the composition and dosage, a combination of dietary supplements with proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle – these are key factors for the maximum benefit of dietary supplements and minimizing risks. Bad is not a panacea and cannot replace full treatment prescribed by a doctor. It is important to remember that dietary supplement is only an addition to a healthy lifestyle, and not its replacement.