Overdose of dietary supplements: symptoms and consequences. Complete leadership.
Section 1: What is dietary supplements and why there is a risk of overdose
Dietary supplements (biologically active additives) 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 rations with individual food or biologically active substances and their complexes. They are available in various forms: tablets, capsules, powders, solutions, extracts, etc.
Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of any diseases. Their main goal is to supplement the diet with the necessary substances, maintain health and improve well -being. However, despite the apparent harmlessness, an uncontrolled intake of dietary supplements can lead to an overdose and serious health consequences.
Why is there a risk of an overdose of dietary supplements?
There are several main reasons why people can accidentally or intentionally exceed the recommended dosage of dietary supplements:
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Insufficient awareness: Many consumers do not have sufficient knowledge about the composition of dietary supplements, their interaction with other substances and potential side effects. They rely on advertising, the advice of acquaintances or unskilled consultants, without paying due attention to information on the packaging and the recommendations of specialists.
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Exaggerated expectations: The desire to get a quick and noticeable result pushes some people to increase the dosage of Bad in the hope of speeding up the process. They believe that “more means better”, ignoring the recommendations of the manufacturer and potential risks.
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Simultaneous reception of several dietary supplements: Often, people simultaneously accept several dietary supplements, not considering that some of them may contain the same active substances. This can lead to summation of doses and excess of a safe level. For example, simultaneous intake of several vitamin-mineral complexes can cause an overdose of vitamin A or iron.
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Incorrect assessment of health status: Some people who suffer from chronic diseases or take medications do not consult a doctor before taking dietary supplements. This can lead to undesirable interactions between dietary supplements and medicines, as well as the aggravation of existing diseases.
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Negdity and inattention: Sometimes an overdose occurs due to simple inattention or negligence. A person can forget that he has already accepted dietary supplements, and accept him again, or mistakenly accept a larger number than recommended.
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Self -medication: The desire for self -medication, especially in relation to serious diseases, can lead to uncontrolled dietary supplements in the hope of a miraculous effect. In such cases, people often ignore the recommendations of doctors and exceed the permissible dosages, which can have dangerous consequences.
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Downstable dietary supplements: On the market there are many low -quality dietary supplements that may contain the amount of active substances that are not component by the declared substances or even harmful impurities. Reception of such dietary supplements, even in recommended doses, can lead to negative health consequences.
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Violation of storage rules: Incorrect storage of dietary supplements (for example, in a place with high temperature or humidity) can lead to a change in their composition and properties. As a result, when taking a dietary supplement, which was stored incorrectly, you can get both insufficient and excessive dose of active substances.
Section 2: General symptoms of a dietary supplement overdose
Symptoms of an overdose of dietary supplements can vary depending on the type of dietary supplement, dose, individual sensitivity of the body and the presence of concomitant diseases. However, there are common features that may indicate that you have accepted too many dietary supplements:
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Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract: This is one of the most common symptoms of dietary supplements. It can manifest in the form of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating and other dyspeptic phenomena.
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Headache and dizziness: An overdose of some dietary supplements can cause headache, dizziness, weakness and other neurological symptoms.
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Skin reactions: Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema and other dermatological manifestations, can be a sign of an overdose of dietary supplements.
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Changes in blood pressure: Some dietary supplements can affect blood pressure, causing its increase or decrease.
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Heart rhythm disturbances: An overdose of some dietary supplements can lead to heart rhythm disturbances, such as tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) or arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat).
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Muscle weakness and cramps: An overdose of some minerals, such as potassium or calcium, can cause muscle weakness and convulsions.
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Sleep disorders: Some dietary supplements, especially containing stimulants, can cause insomnia or other sleep disturbances.
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Changes in behavior and mood: An overdose of some dietary supplements can lead to changes in behavior and mood, such as irritability, anxiety, depression or excitement.
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Darkening of urine: An overdose of some vitamins, especially group B, can cause darkening of urine.
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Dehydration: Diarye and vomiting caused by an overdose of dietary supplements can lead to dehydration.
It is important to note that these symptoms can be caused not only by an overdose of dietary supplements, but also by other causes. Therefore, if you experience any of these symptoms, you must consult a doctor to establish an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Section 3: overdose by vitamins: symptoms and consequences
Vitamins are necessary for the normal functioning of the body, but their excess can be dangerous. Each vitamin has its own spectrum of action and its own signs of an overdose.
3.1. Overdose by vitamin A (retinol)
Vitamin A is a fat -soluble vitamin, which is necessary for vision, growth, development and immune system. An overdose of vitamin A, also known as hypervitaminosis A, can be acute (occurs when taking a very high dose once) or chronic (occurs with prolonged use of high doses).
Symptoms of acute overdose of vitamin A:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Visual violation
- Convulsions
- Loss of consciousness
Symptoms of chronic overdose of vitamin A:
- Dry skin and mucous membranes
- Hair loss
- Increase in the liver and spleen
- Bone pain and joints
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Loss of appetite
- Jaundice
- Increase in intracranial pressure (in children)
- Fetal deformation (during pregnancy)
The consequences of vitamin A overdose:
- Liver damage (cirrhosis)
- Osteoporosis
- Increasing risk of fractures
- Congenital defects in the fetus
- Coma
- Death (in rare cases)
3.2. Overdose by vitamin D (calciferol)
Vitamin D is also a fat -soluble vitamin, which plays an important role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, as well as in maintaining the health of bones and the immune system. An overdose of vitamin D, also known as hypervitaminosis D, can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood).
Symptoms of an overdose of vitamin D:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Bone pain
- Frequent urination
- Strong thirst
- Dehydration
- Increased blood pressure
- Heart rhythm disturbances
- Renal failure
The consequences of an overdose of vitamin D:
- Calcification of soft tissues (calcium deposition in organs and tissues)
- Renal failure
- Kidney stones
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Death (in rare cases)
3.3. Overdose by vitamin E (Tocopherol)
Vitamin E is a fat -soluble vitamin, which acts as an antioxidant, protecting the cells from damage by free radicals. An overdose of vitamin E is rare, but with prolonged use of high doses, the following symptoms can occur:
Symptoms of vitamin E overdose:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Headache
- Violation of blood coagulation
- Increased risk of bleeding
The consequences of an overdose of vitamin E:
- Increase in the risk of hemorrhagic stroke
- Violation of the assimilation of vitamin K
- Reducing immunity
3.4. Overdose of vitamin K (Phillokhinon, Menakhinon)
Vitamin K is a fat -soluble vitamin that is necessary for blood coagulation. An overdose of vitamin K is extremely rare, since it is quickly excreted from the body. However, when taking very high doses, the following symptoms may occur:
Symptoms of vitamin k:
- Increased sweating
- Tucks
- Irritability
- Hemolytic anemia (in children)
The consequences of an overdose of vitamin K:
- Practically absent. However, patients taking anticoagulants (drugs diluting blood) should avoid taking large doses of vitamin K, as this can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants.
3.5. Overdose of vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
Vitamin C is a water -soluble vitamin, which is necessary for the immune system, healing of wounds and collagen formation. An overdose of vitamin C is relatively safe, since the excess of vitamin C is removed from the body in urine. However, when taking very high doses (more than 2000 mg per day), the following symptoms may occur:
Symptoms of vitamin C overdose:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Stomach ache
- Heartburn
- Headache
- Insomnia
- The formation of kidney stones (in predisposed people)
The consequences of an overdose of vitamin C:
- In most cases, an overdose of vitamin C does not cause serious consequences. However, with prolonged receiving high doses, problems with the absorption of copper and selenium may occur.
3.6. Overdose of group B vitamins
B vitamins are water -soluble vitamins that play an important role in metabolism, nervous system and blood formation. An overdose of group B vitamins is rare, since an excess of vitamins is excreted from the body in urine. However, when taking high doses of some vitamins of group B, certain symptoms may occur:
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Vitamin B1 (TIAMIN): An overdose of vitamin B1 is extremely rare and usually does not cause serious consequences.
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Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): An overdose of vitamin B2 is also rare and usually does not cause serious consequences. Urine can purchase a bright yellow color.
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Vitamin B3 (Niacin): An overdose of vitamin B3 can cause redness of the skin of the face and neck, itching, nausea, vomiting, headache and dizziness. With prolonged use of high doses, liver damage may occur.
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Vitamin B5 (pantotenic acid): An overdose of vitamin B5 is rare and can cause diarrhea.
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Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): An overdose of vitamin B6 can cause neurological symptoms, such as tingling and numbness in the limbs, impaired coordination of movements and peripheral neuropathy.
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Vitamin B7 (Biotin): An overdose of vitamin B7 is rare and usually does not cause serious consequences.
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Vitamin B9 (folic acid): An overdose of vitamin B9 can mask the deficiency of vitamin B12 and lead to irreversible neurological damage.
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Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): An overdose of vitamin B12 is rare and usually does not cause serious consequences.
Section 4: overdose by minerals: symptoms and consequences
Minerals are necessary to maintain health, but their excess can also be dangerous.
4.1. Overdose of iron
Iron is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, which tolerates oxygen in the blood. An overdose of iron can be acute (occurs when taking a high dose once) or chronic (occurs with prolonged use of high doses).
Symptoms of acute overdose of iron:
- Nausea and vomiting (often with blood)
- Stomach ache
- Diarrhea (often with blood)
- Drowsiness
- Shock
- Renal failure
- Liver failure
- Coma
Symptoms of chronic iron overdose (hemochromatosis):
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Joint pain
- The darkening of the skin
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Cirrhosis
The consequences of an overdose of iron:
- Live defeat
- Damage to the heart
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Death (in the case of an acute overdose)
4.2. Overdose calcium
Calcium is necessary for the health of bones, teeth and muscles. An overdose of calcium, also known as hypercalcemia, can lead to various symptoms.
Symptoms of an overdose of calcium:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Stomach ache
- Frequent urination
- Strong thirst
- Increased blood pressure
- Heart rhythm disturbances
- Depression
- Confusion
- Calcification of soft tissues (calcium deposition in organs and tissues)
- Kidney stones
- Renal failure
The consequences of an overdose of calcium:
- Renal failure
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Coma
- Death (in rare cases)
4.3. Overdose potassium
Potassium is necessary for the normal functioning of muscles and nerves. An overdose of potassium, also known as hyperkalemia, can be life -threatening.
Symptoms of a potassium overdose:
- Muscle weakness
- Paresthesia (tingling and numbness)
- Heart rhythm disturbances (up to cardiac arrest)
- Nausea
- Vomit
- Diarrhea
The consequences of an overdose of potassium:
- Heart failure
- Death
4.4. An overdose of magnesium
Magnesium is necessary for many functions of the body, including the functioning of muscles, nerves and hearts. An overdose of magnesium is rare, but can occur when taking high doses of antacids or laxatives containing magnesium.
Symptoms of an overdose of magnesium:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomit
- Muscle weakness
- Drowsiness
- Decrease in blood pressure
- Slowing heart rhythm
- Breathing violation
- Coma
The consequences of an overdose of magnesium:
- Breathing violation
- Coma
- Heart arrest (in rare cases)
4.5. An overdose of zinc
Zinc is necessary for the immune system, healing of wounds and taste. An overdose of zinc can occur when taking high doses of zinc in the form of dietary supplements.
Symptoms of an overdose of zinc:
- Nausea
- Vomit
- Diarrhea
- Stomach ache
- Metal taste in the mouth
- Reducing immunity
- Copper deficiency
- Violation of the assimilation of iron
The consequences of an overdose of zinc:
- Reducing immunity
- Anemia
- Neurological disorders
4.6. Overdose selenium
Selenium is an antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals. An overdose of selenium can occur when taking high doses of selenium in the form of dietary supplements.
Symptoms of an overdose of selenium:
- Hair loss
- Fragility of nails
- Skin rashes
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Nervous disorders
- Garlic smell from the mouth
The consequences of an overdose of selenium:
- Live defeat
- Neurological disorders
4.7. An overdose of iodine
Iodine is necessary for the normal function of the thyroid gland. An overdose of iodine can lead to various problems with the thyroid gland.
Symptoms of iodine overdose:
- Metal taste in the mouth
- Burning in the mouth and throat
- Stomach ache
- Nausea
- Vomit
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Increased thyroid gland (goiter)
- Hyperthyroidism (increased thyroid function)
- Hypothyroidism (reduced thyroid function)
The consequences of an overdose of iodine:
- Hypertreenineosis
- Hypothyroidism
- Autoimmune thyroiditis
Section 5: overdose of plant dietary supplements: symptoms and consequences
Plant dietary supplements that seem “natural” and safe can also lead to an overdose and serious consequences.
5.1. An overdose of St. John’s wort
St. John’s wort is often used as an antidepressant. An overdose can cause:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Dizziness, confusion
- Dry mouth
- Sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitization)
Consequences:
- Photosensitization (skin burns under the influence of the sun)
- Interaction with drugs (antidepressants, anticoagulants, contraceptive pills), reducing their effectiveness
5.2. An overdose of ginseng
Ginseng is often used to increase energy and improve cognitive functions. An overdose can cause:
- Insomnia
- Nervousness, anxiety
- Headache
- Increased blood pressure
- Diarrhea
Consequences:
- Hypertension
- Violation of blood coagulation
5.3. An overdose of ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba is often used to improve memory and blood circulation. An overdose can cause:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Bleeding
Consequences:
- Bleeding (especially with the simultaneous use of anticoagulants)
- Convulsions
5.4. An overdose of Echinacea
Echinacea is often used to strengthen the immune system. An overdose can cause:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Stomach ache
- Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
Consequences:
- Allergic reactions (up to anaphylactic shock)
- Disruption of the liver (in rare cases)
5.5. An overdose of Valerian
Valerian is often used as a sedative. An overdose can cause:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Inhibitory
- Headache
- Nausea, vomiting
Consequences:
- Slow down the reaction
- Reducing concentration
5.6. An overdose of a quick -hearted
Proopsha is often used to protect the liver. An overdose can cause:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Allergic reactions
Consequences:
- Allergic reactions
- Interaction with drugs (reducing the effectiveness of some drugs)
5.7. Overdose green tea (extract)
Green tea is often used for weight loss and antioxidant protection. An overdose of green tea extract can cause:
- Insomnia
- Nervousness
- Increased blood pressure
- Tremor
- Liver damage
Consequences:
- Liver damage (hepatotoxicity)
- Cardiovascular problems
Section 6: overdose amino acids: symptoms and consequences
Amino acids are construction blocks of proteins and are important for many functions of the body. However, an overdose of some amino acids can lead to undesirable consequences.
6.1. An overdose of L-carnitine
L-carnitine is often used to improve sports results and burn fat. An overdose can cause:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Stomach ache
- The “fish” smell of the body
- Increased sweating
Consequences:
- Diarrhea
- The unpleasant smell of the body
6.2. An overdose by creatine
Creatine is often used to increase muscle mass and strength. An overdose can cause:
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Muscle cramps
- Dehydration
Consequences:
- Renal failure (with a predisposition)
- Muscle cramps
6.3. Overdose of BCAA (amino acids with an extensive chain)
BCAA is often used to restore muscles after training. An overdose can cause:
- Nausea, vomiting
- Fatigue
- Violation of coordination of movements
- Increased content of ammonia in the blood
Consequences:
- Neurological disorders
- Liver failure (in rare cases)
6.4. An overdose of L-Arginine
L-arginine is often used to improve blood circulation and erectile function. An overdose can cause:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Stomach ache
- Decrease in blood pressure
- Exacerbation of herpes
Consequences:
- Decrease in blood pressure
- Exacerbation of herpes
6.5. An overdose of glutamine
Glutamine is often used to strengthen the immune system and recovery after training. An overdose can cause:
- Nausea, vomiting
- Constipation
- Headache
- Nervousness
Consequences:
- Possible interactions with anticonvulsants
Section 7: overdose of other popular dietary supplements: symptoms and consequences
The dietary supplement market is constantly expanding, and it is important to know about potential risks of an overdose for other popular additives.
7.1. Overdose by Coenzym Q10 (COQ10)
COQ10 is often used to maintain heart and energy health. An overdose can cause:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Rash
Consequences:
- In rare cases – impaired liver function
7.2. Overdose of omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are often used to maintain the health of the heart, brain and joints. An overdose can cause:
- Fish belching
- Nausea, diarrhea
- Bleeding
- Reducing immunity
Consequences:
- Increasing the risk of bleeding
- Reducing immunity
7.3. An overdose of probiotics
Probiotics are often used to maintain intestinal health. An overdose can cause:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea
Consequences:
- In people with weakened immunity – the risk of infection
7.4. An overdose of melatonin
Melatonin is often used to improve sleep. An overdose can cause:
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Irritability
Consequences:
- Violation of the natural cycle of sleep-bondage
7.5. Overdose glucosamine and chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin are often used to maintain joint health. An overdose can cause:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Heartburn
- Headache
Consequences:
- In rare cases – allergic reactions
7.6. Overdose of 5-HTP (5-hydroxitriptophanes)
5-HTP is often used to improve mood and sleep. An overdose can cause:
- Nausea, vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Alarm, panic
- Serotonin syndrome (combined with antidepressants)
Consequences:
- Serotonin syndrome (potentially fatal condition)
Section 8: First aid for an overdose of dietary supplements
If you suspect an overdose of a dietary supplement, it is important to immediately take the following actions:
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Discontinue Bada Reception: Continuously stop taking a dietary supplement that caused a suspicion of an overdose.
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Assess the condition: Pay attention to the symptoms and determine their severity.
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Call an ambulance: If the symptoms are severe (difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, severe abdominal pain, heart rhythm disturbances), immediately call an ambulance.
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Rinse the stomach (if possible): If the victim is conscious and an overdose occurred recently (within 1-2 hours), you can try to cause vomiting to remove part of the substance from the stomach. Give me a few glasses of water and press your fingers on the root of the tongue.
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Accept activated carbon: Activated charcoal helps adsorb toxins in the gastrointestinal tract. Give the victim activated carbon at a dose of 1 gram per kilogram of body weight, washed down with a large amount of water.
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Provide fresh air access: Open the window or bring the victim to fresh air.
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Save the package of dietary supplements: Save the package of Bad to provide information about the composition and dosage to doctors.
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Inform the doctor about the drugs taken: Tell the doctor about all the drugs that the victim takes, including prescription, over -the -counter drugs and other dietary supplements.
Important:
- Do not self -medicate and do not wait until the symptoms go on their own.
- Contact the doctor even with minor symptoms of an overdose to get qualified help and avoid serious consequences.
- Do not give the victim any drugs except activated coal, without the recommendation of a doctor.
Section 9: Prevention of an overdose of dietary supplements
It is much easier to prevent an overdose of dietary supplements than treating its consequences. Follow the following recommendations:
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Consult a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement, be sure to consult a doctor or a qualified nutritionist. They will be able to evaluate your health status, take into account the drugs taken and choose the optimal dietary supplement in the correct dosage.
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Learn the information: Carefully read the instructions for the use of dietary supplements, paying attention to the composition, dosage, contraindications and possible side effects.
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Follow the recommended dosage: Never exceed the recommended dosage of Bad, even if it seems to you that this will accelerate the effect. “Better” “no longer” means “better”, especially in relation to dietary supplements.
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Get dietary supplements only in reliable places: Buy dietary supplements only in pharmacies or specialized stores with a good reputation. Avoid the acquisition of dietary supplements from dubious sellers or on the Internet, as this increases the risk of acquiring a poor -quality or falsified product.
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Check the expiration date: Before buying and dietary supplement, always check the expiration date. Do not use dietary supplements with an expired shelf life.
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Keep the dietary supplement correctly: Keep dietary supplements in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, in an inaccessible place for children.
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Inform doctors about the admission of dietary supplements: When visiting a doctor, be sure to report all the dietary supplements that you take to avoid unwanted interactions with drugs.
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Avoid simultaneous reception of several dietary supplements: Without consulting a doctor, do not take several dietary supplements at the same time, especially if they contain the same active substances.
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Be especially careful with children and pregnant women: Children and pregnant women should be careful about taking dietary supplements and be sure to consult a doctor before using them.
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Listen to your body: If you notice any undesirable symptoms after the start of taking Bad, immediately stop taking it and consult a doctor.
Section 10: Legislative regulation of dietary supplements
Legislative regulation of dietary supplements varies in different countries. In Russia, dietary supplements are regulated by the Federal Law of January 2, 2000 N 29-ФЗ “On the quality and safety of food products” and other regulatory acts.
The basic requirements for dietary supplements in Russia:
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Mandatory state registration: Before issuing dietary supplements, binding state registration in the Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights and Human Blessings (Rospotrebnadzor) should be held.
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Compliance with security requirements: Bades must comply with safety requirements established by the technical regulations of the Customs Union.
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Marking: On the package of Bada, information on the composition, dosage, contraindications, shelf life and manufacturer should be indicated.
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Advertising: Advertising of dietary supplements