Bades: allergic reactions and other undesirable consequences – a complete guide
I. Introduction to dietary supplements and their popularity
Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) have become an integral part of a modern health culture. They are advertised as means to improve well -being, increase immunity, prevent diseases and even slowing down aging. A wide range of products, from vitamins and minerals to herbal extracts and probiotics, is available without a recipe, which contributes to their popularity. Consumers are increasingly turning to dietary supplements in search of natural and safe alternatives to traditional medicines. This trend is fueled by aggressive advertising, information on social networks and tips from bloggers and influons. However, despite the attractiveness of dietary supplements, it is important to understand that they carry potential risks, including allergic reactions and other undesirable consequences. The lack of strict quality control and regulation, and also not always transparent composition make their use by the subject of disputes and discussions in the medical community.
II. What are dietary supplements: classification and composition
Biologically active additives are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances, designed for direct consumption with food or introduction into food products. They are not medicines, but belong to the category of food products, which determines the milder requirements for their production and registration. Bades can be represented in various forms: tablets, capsules, powders, solutions, syrups and others.
2.1 Classification of dietary supplements:
- Nutricevtiki: Sources of indispensable food substances (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids). They make up for the deficiency of these substances in the diet.
- Parafarmetzetics: They influence individual organs and systems of the body, contributing to their normalization and maintenance. They may contain plant extracts, enzymes, probiotics and other biologically active substances.
- Probiotics and prebiotics: Support a healthy intestinal microflora. Probiotics contain living microorganisms, and prebiotics – substances that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria.
- Dietary fibers: Contribute to the normalization of digestion and maintaining intestinal health.
- Sports nutrition: Specially developed products for athletes and people leading an active lifestyle aimed at improving the results and recovery after training.
2.2 composition of dietary supplements:
The composition of the dietary supplement can be extremely diverse and include the following components:
- Vitamins: A, b, c, d, e, k and others.
- Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, selenium and others.
- Amino acids: Izoable and replaceable amino acids necessary for the construction of proteins.
- Paul -saturated fatty acids (PNS): Omega-3, Omega-6, Omega-9.
- Plant extracts: Extracts of herbs, fruits, roots and other parts of plants with various biological properties.
- Enzymes: Substances that accelerate biochemical processes in the body.
- Probiotics: Living microorganisms useful for intestinal microflora.
- Prebiotics: Substances that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
- Antioxidants: Substances that protect cells from damage by free radicals.
- Other biologically active substances: Coenzyme Q10, Carnitine, Chondroitin, Glucosamine and others.
It is important to note that the composition of dietary supplements can vary depending on the manufacturer and a specific product. Often, excipients are added to the composition, such as dyes, flavors, preservatives and fillers, which can also cause unwanted reactions.
III. Allergic reactions to dietary supplements: mechanisms and symptoms
Allergic reactions to dietary supplements are one of the most common undesirable reactions. They can be caused by any component that is part of the additive, including active substances, auxiliary ingredients and even traces of impurities.
3.1 Mechanisms of allergic reactions:
Allergic reactions to dietary supplements develop according to the same mechanisms as other allergic reactions. The main mechanism is an IgE-mediated reaction. In the first contact with the allergen (Bad component), the immune system is sensitized and produces specific IgE antibodies to this allergen. With repeated contact, allergen is associated with IgE antitheals located on the surface of fat cells and basophils, which leads to the release of allergies, such as histamine, leukotrienes and prostaglandins. These mediators cause various symptoms of allergies.
In some cases, allergic reactions may not be IgE-mediated. They can be caused by other immune mechanisms, such as cellular immunity or complement activation. These reactions usually appear more slowly and can be less pronounced.
3.2 allergens in dietary supplements:
The most common allergens in dietary supplements are:
- Plant components: Many plant extracts can cause allergic reactions, especially in people who are allergic to pollen, fruits or vegetables. Examples of such plants are chamomile, echinacea, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, as well as various herbs and spices.
- Bee products: Propolis, uterine milk and bee pollen can cause allergic reactions in people with allergies to bees or bee products.
- Seafood: Glucosamine and chondroitin, often used to maintain joint health, can be obtained from crustaceans and, therefore, cause allergic reactions in people with allergies to seafood.
- Dairy products: Some dietary supplements contain lactose or casein, which can cause allergic reactions in people with lactose intolerance or allergies to milk proteins.
- Soy: Soy lecithin is often used as an emulsifier in dietary supplements and can cause allergic reactions in people with allergies to all.
- Gluten: Some dietary supplements contain gluten, which can cause allergic reactions in people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
- Dyes and preservatives: Artificial dyes and preservatives, such as tartrazine (E102) and benzoates, can also cause allergic reactions in some people.
3.3 Symptoms of allergic reactions:
Symptoms of allergic reactions to dietary supplements can be different and vary in severity. They can manifest itself both immediately after taking the additive, and after a few hours or days.
- Skin manifestations:
- Urticaria (Urticaria): The appearance of itchy blisters on the skin.
- Angioneurotic edema (Quincke’s edema): skin edema, subcutaneous tissue and mucous membranes, most often in the face, lips, tongue and larynx.
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis): dryness, itching, redness and peeling of the skin.
- Contact dermatitis: redness, itching and the formation of bubbles on the skin at the site of contact with the allergen.
- From the gastrointestinal tract:
- Nausea, vomiting.
- Diarrhea (diarrhea).
- Abdominal pain.
- Bloating.
- From the respiratory system:
- Rhinitis (runny nose): nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing.
- Conjunctivitis: redness, itching and lacrimation of the eyes.
- Bronchial asthma: cough, shortness of breath, whistling rales in the lungs.
- Swelling of the larynx: difficulty breathing, hoarse voice.
- System manifestations:
- Anaphylactic shock: a severe, threatening allergic reaction, characterized by a sharp decrease in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness.
It is important to note that the symptoms of an allergic reaction can be non -specific and resemble the symptoms of other diseases. Therefore, when any undesirable symptoms appear after taking a dietary supplement, you must consult a doctor to establish a diagnosis and prescribe treatment.
IV. Other undesirable consequences of dietary supplement
In addition to allergic reactions, the intake of dietary supplements can cause other undesirable consequences associated with various factors, such as:
- Poor -quality raw materials and violation of production technology.
- The inconsistency of the declared composition is actual.
- Interaction with drugs.
- An overdose of individual components.
4.1 Problems with quality and safety:
One of the main risks associated with the reception of dietary supplements is the lack of strict quality control and safety. Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not go through strict clinical trials and are not subjected to equally rigid regulation. This can lead to the following problems:
- Pollution: Bades can be polluted by heavy metals, pesticides, bacteria or other toxic substances. This is especially true for dietary supplements made from plant materials, which can be grown in environmentally unfavorable areas or subjected to chemicals.
- The inconsistency of the declared composition of the actual: The content of active substances in dietary supplements may not correspond to the stated on the label. In some cases, dietary supplements may contain a much smaller amount of active substances than indicated, or not contain them at all. In other cases, they may contain hazardous substances that are not indicated on the label, such as synthetic analogues of drugs.
- Incorrect dosage: The dosage of active substances in dietary supplements can be inaccurate or not correspond to the needs of a particular person. This can lead to an overdose or insufficient effect.
4.2 Interaction with drugs:
Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or enhancing their side effects. This is especially dangerous for people taking drugs about chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, thyroid diseases and others.
Examples of the interaction of dietary supplements with drugs:
- St. John’s wort is perforated: It can reduce the effectiveness of many drugs, including antidepressants, contraceptives, anticoagulants and immunosuppressants.
- Vitamin K: It can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants such as warfarin.
- Garlic: It can strengthen the effect of anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents, increasing the risk of bleeding.
- Grapefruit juice: The metabolism of many drugs can change, increasing or reducing their concentration in the blood.
- Coenzim q10: It can reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs.
Before taking a dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you take any medicine. The doctor will be able to evaluate potential risks of interaction and give recommendations on the safe use of dietary supplements.
4.3 side effects that are not related to allergies:
In addition to allergic reactions and drug interactions, dietary supplements can also cause other side effects that are not related to allergies. These effects can be due to an overdose of individual components, individual sensitivity to dietary supplements or other factors.
Examples of side effects that are not related to allergies:
- From the gastrointestinal tract: Diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, heartburn.
- From the nervous system: Headache, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, irritability.
- From the cardiovascular system: Increasing blood pressure, rapid heartbeat.
- From the urinary system: Disorders of the kidney function.
- From the liver side: Increasing the level of hepatic enzymes, hepatitis.
- Other: Hair loss, change in urine color, change in body odor.
4.4 Special risk groups:
Some groups of people are more at the risk of developing undesirable consequences from the reception of dietary supplements. These include:
- Children: The dosage of dietary supplements for children should be carefully calculated and correspond to the age and weight of the child. Some dietary supplements can be contraindicated for children.
- Pregnant and lactating women: Some dietary supplements can be dangerous for pregnant women and nursing women and can have a negative effect on the development of the fetus or health of the child.
- Elderly people: Elderly people are more at risk of interaction between dietary supplements with drugs and the development of side effects.
- People with chronic diseases: People with chronic diseases should consult a doctor before taking Bad, as some dietary supplements can worsen the course of the disease or interact with drugs.
- People with allergies: People with allergies should carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and avoid taking dietary supplements containing well -known allergens.
V. Diagnosis of allergic reactions to dietary supplements
Diagnosis of allergic reactions to dietary supplements can be a difficult task, since the composition of dietary supplements is often complicated and not always transparent. In addition, symptoms of allergic reactions can be non -specific and resemble the symptoms of other diseases.
5.1 anamnesis:
The first step in the diagnosis of an allergic reaction to dietary supplements is a careful history of the anamnesis. The doctor must find out what dietary supplements the patient took when the symptoms appeared, what symptoms were observed, and whether the patient has allergies to any food, medicine or other substances.
5.2 skin tests:
Skin tests (hood tests and intradermal tests) can be used to detect allergies to individual dietary supplements. During a hood test, a small amount of allergen is applied to the skin and a light puncture of the skin is made. During intradermal dough, the allergen is inserted under the skin with a syringe. If the patient has an allergy to this allergen, redness and edema will appear at the site of administration.
5.3 Analysis of IGE-anthlets:
A blood test for IgE antibodies can be used to identify specific IgE antibodies to individual dietary supplements. This analysis can be useful in cases where skin tests cannot be carried out or give dubious results.
5.4 provocative tests:
In some cases, a provocative test can be carried out, during which the patient takes a small amount of dietary supplement under the supervision of a doctor. If the patient develops an allergic reaction, the diagnosis is confirmed. Provocative tests should be carried out only in a medical institution, where there is the possibility of emergency assistance in the case of anaphylactic shock.
5.5 Differential diagnosis:
It is important to conduct differential diagnosis of allergic reactions to dietary supplements with other diseases that can cause similar symptoms such as infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and others.
VI. Treatment of allergic reactions to dietary supplements
Treatment of allergic reactions to dietary supplements depends on the severity of the reaction.
6.1 immediate termination of dietary supplement:
The first step in the treatment of an allergic reaction to dietary supplements is the immediate cessation of the intake of dietary supplements that caused the reaction.
6.2 Symptomatic treatment:
- Antihistamines: Antihistamines block the effect of histamine, one of the main mediators of allergies. They can be used to relieve itching, urticaria, runny nose and other symptoms of allergies.
- Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids have anti -inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. They can be used to treat more severe allergic reactions, such as angioedema and bronchial asthma.
- Bronstillers: Bronstillers expand the respiratory tract and facilitate breathing. They can be used to treat bronchial asthma caused by allergies.
- Epinephrine (adrenaline): Epinephrine is a first aid drug for anaphylactic shock. It narrows blood vessels, increases blood pressure and expands the respiratory tract.
6.3 Hospitalization:
In the case of a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylactic shock or angioedema, it is necessary to immediately call an ambulance and hospitalize the patient to a medical institution for emergency care.
6.4 Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIS):
In some cases, if allergies are caused by a specific component of dietary supplements, allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT), also known as desensitization, can be performed. During ATS, the patient is administered small doses of allergen for a long time, gradually increasing the dose. This allows the immune system to gradually get used to the allergen and reduce its reaction to it. ASIT is a long and expensive method of treatment and is not suitable for all patients.
VII. Prevention of undesirable reactions to dietary supplements
Prevention of undesirable reactions to dietary supplements is an important aspect of maintaining health and safety.
7.1 Consultation with a doctor:
Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will be able to evaluate your health status, identify possible contraindications and give recommendations on the safe use of dietary supplements.
7.2 Choice of high -quality dietary supplements:
Choose dietary supplements from famous and reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and adhere to high quality standards. Pay attention to the availability of quality and conformity certificates.
7.3 Study of the composition:
Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement before buying. Make sure that there are no components for which you have an allergy or intolerance to.
7.4 Dosage observance:
Strictly observe the recommended dosage of the dietary supplement indicated on the package or prescribed by the doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose, as this can lead to the development of side effects.
7.5 Careful observation of the reaction of the body:
After the start of taking Bad, carefully observe the reaction of your body. When any undesirable symptoms appear, immediately stop taking the dietary supplement and consult a doctor.
7.6 Information of the doctor about the admission of dietary supplements:
When visiting a doctor, be sure to tell him that you are taking dietary supplements. This will help the doctor avoid possible interactions of dietary supplements with drugs and correctly interpret the results of the tests.
VIII. Legal aspects and regulation of dietary supplements
Legal aspects and regulation of dietary supplements are an important factor that determines their quality and safety.
8.1 Bad Legislation:
In different countries, there are various legislative acts governing the production, sale and advertising of dietary supplements. In some countries, dietary supplements are regulated as food products, in others – as drugs.
8.2 Requirements for production and quality control:
Requirements for the production and quality control of dietary supplements can also vary in different countries. In some countries, there are strict requirements for the production and control of the quality of dietary supplements, similar to the requirements for the production of drugs. In other countries, the requirements can be less strict.
8.3 Responsibility of manufacturers and sellers:
Manufacturers and sellers of dietary supplements are responsible for the safety and quality of their products. They are required to provide reliable information about the composition of the dietary supplement, its properties and contraindications. In case of damage to the health of the consumer due to the use of poor -quality dietary supplements, the manufacturer or seller is liable in accordance with the law.
8.4 The role of state bodies:
State bodies exercise control over the production, sale and advertising of dietary supplements. They carry out the quality of dietary supplements, identify and suppress violations of the law, and also inform the population about the risks associated with the use of dietary supplements.
IX. Bades and sports: special risks
Athletes often use dietary supplements to increase results, improve recovery after training and maintain health. However, the use of dietary supplements in sports is associated with special risks.
9.1 Doping:
Some dietary supplements may contain substances prohibited for use in sports. The use of such dietary supplements can lead to an athlete disqualification. It is important to choose dietary supplements certified by anti -doping organizations.
9.2 Non -compliance of the declared composition with actual:
In sports dietary supplements, the inconsistency of the declared composition of the actual one is often found. Some dietary supplements may contain substances not indicated on the label, or contain fewer active substances than indicated.
9.3 Interaction with drugs:
Athletes often take drugs for the treatment of injuries and diseases. Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or enhancing their side effects.
9.4 overdose:
Athletes often use dietary supplements in large doses to achieve a greater effect. This can lead to an overdose of individual dietary supplements and the development of side effects.
9.5 Health risk:
The use of dietary supplements can be a risk to the health of athletes, especially for those who have chronic diseases or take medications.
X. Alternatives to use dietary supplements
Instead of using dietary supplements, to improve the health and prevention of diseases, you can consider alternative approaches, such as:
10.1 balanced meals:
A balanced diet, which includes a sufficient amount of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein and healthy fats, is the basis for health and good health.
10.2 Regular physical activity:
Regular physical activity helps maintain health of the cardiovascular system, strengthens bones and muscles, improves mood and reduces the risk of developing many diseases.
10.3 Healthy sleep:
A sufficient dream is necessary to restore the body and maintain health. Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.
10.4 Stress management:
Stress can negatively affect health. Find the ways of managing stress, such as meditation, yoga, walking in the fresh air or communication with loved ones.
10.5 Refusal of bad habits:
Refusal of smoking and alcohol abuse is an important step towards a healthy lifestyle.
10.6 Consultations with specialists:
If necessary, consult a doctor, a nutritionist or other specialists to obtain individual recommendations for maintaining health.
XI. Conclusion
When deciding on the use of dietary supplements, it is necessary to carefully weigh all potential risks and advantages. Consultation with a doctor, the choice of quality products and compliance with dosage recommendations will help reduce the risk of undesirable reactions and get the maximum benefit from the use of dietary supplements. However, it is important to remember that dietary supplements are not a replacement for a balanced diet, regular physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.