Bad “Health Formula”: an alternative to drugs or an addition to therapy?

Instead, begin immediately with the article’s first section.

Bad “Health Formula”: an alternative to drugs or an addition to therapy?

Section 1: What is the dietary supplement “Formula of Health”? Composition, properties and declared effects.

Bades “Health Formula” (hereinafter referred to as the Federal Law) is an extensive line of biologically active food additives made by the company, which for the purposes of this analysis we will call “LLC ‘Health'”, which specializes in the development and sale of products to maintain health and improve the quality of life. The Assortment of the Federal Law covers a wide range of categories, including vitamin-mineral complexes, products based on plant extracts, probiotics, prebiotics, omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients.

For an adequate assessment of the potential benefits and risks associated with the use of the Federal Law, it is necessary to carefully study their composition, the declared properties and mechanisms of action. It is important to note that, unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not go through strict clinical trials confirming their effectiveness and safety, and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Their main goal is to replenish the deficiency of substances necessary for the body, maintaining the normal function of organs and systems, as well as increasing resistance to adverse environmental factors.

1.1. The composition of the Bades “Formula of Health”: a detailed analysis of the ingredients.

The FZ line is distinguished by a variety of compositions, which is due to orientation to various needs and target groups of consumers. Consider the most common components and their potential effect on the body:

• Vitamins: The composition of the Federal Law includes various vitamins, such as vitamin C (ascorbic acid), vitamins of group B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12), vitamin D (cholecalciferol), vitamin E (tocopherol), vitamin A (retinol) and vitamin K (Phillokhinon). Vitamins play an important role in metabolic processes, maintaining immunity, skin health, bone and nervous system. Vitamin deficiency can lead to various disorders and diseases. However, the excess of recommended doses can also be harmful. In the Federal Law, vitamins are usually represented in dosages corresponding to the recommended daily consumption standards. It is important to pay attention to the form of vitamins, since some forms, for example, methylated forms of B vitamins, can be more bio -access for certain people. It is necessary to take into account the interaction of vitamins with each other and with other components of dietary supplements. For example, vitamin D improves the absorption of calcium, and vitamin C increases iron absorption.

• Minerals: The minerals that make up the Federal Law include calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, iodine, selenium, copper, manganese, chrome and molybdenum. Minerals are involved in the construction of bone tissue, regulation of electrolyte balance, the work of enzymes, the immune system and other important functions. Mineral deficiency can also lead to various diseases. It is important to consider that some minerals can compete for absorption in the intestines. For example, high doses of zinc can reduce copper absorption. Therefore, it is important that the ratio of minerals in the dietary supplement is balanced. The form of minerals is also important. For example, chelat forms of minerals, such as iron bislycinate or magnesium citrate, are usually better absorbed than oxides.

• Plant extracts: The Federal Law contains a wide range of plant extracts with various pharmacological properties. These include extracts of echinacea, ginseng, ginkgo biloba, milk thistle, green tea, cranberries, chamomiles and others. Echinacea extract can have an immunostimulating effect. Ginseng extract – adaptogenic and tonic. Ginkgo biloba extract improves blood circulation. The extract of the milk thistle has a hepatoprotective effect. Green tea extract is an antioxidant. Cranberry extract has antimicrobial properties. Chamomile extract has a calming effect. It is important to consider that plant extracts can interact with drugs, so before their use it is necessary to consult a doctor. It is also important to take into account the concentration of active substances in extract, which can vary depending on the manufacturer and production technology.

• Probiotics and prebiotics: Some Federal Laws contain probiotics (living microorganisms useful for the intestines) and prebiotics (substances that contribute to the growth and reproduction of probiotics). Probiotics contribute to normalizing intestinal microflora, improving digestion, strengthening immunity and reducing the risk of dysbiosis. Prebiotics, such as Inulin and fruitoligosaccharides, serve as food for probiotics and contribute to their growth and reproduction. It is important to choose probiotics containing viable bacterial strains resistant to gastric juice and bile.

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA (eicosapendaic acid) and DHA (non-oxaexaenic acid), are indispensable fatty acids necessary for the health of the cardiovascular system, brain, vision and skin. The Federal Law contain omega-3 fatty acids obtained from fish oil or vegetable springs, such as flax. It is important to pay attention to the concentration of EPA and DHA in the product, as well as the degree of purification of fish oil from heavy metals and other pollution.

• Amino acids: Some Federal Laws contain amino acids, such as L-Carnitin, L-Arginine, L-Glutamine and others. Amino acids are construction blocks of proteins and participate in various metabolic processes. L-carnitine is involved in the transport of fatty acids in mitochondria, where they are used to produce energy. L-Arginine is involved in the synthesis of nitrogen oxide, which expands blood vessels. L-lutamine is an important source of energy for intestinal cells and immune system.

1.2. The declared effects of dietary supplements “Health Formula”: analysis of marketing materials and scientific data.

Health LLC positions the Federal Law as products that contribute to:

• Strengthen the immunity and increase the body’s resistance to infections.
• Maintaining the normal function of the cardiovascular system.
• Improving the functioning of the brain and cognitive functions.
• Protection of the liver and improve the detoxification functions of the body.
• Normalization of digestion and intestinal microflora.
• Maintaining the health of bones and joints.
• Improving the condition of the skin, hair and nails.
• Increasing the level of energy and vital tone.

It is important to note that these declared effects are based on the potential properties of individual ingredients that are part of the Federal Law, and are not always confirmed by clinical studies conducted directly using specific FZ products. Marketing materials often use generalized data on the benefits of vitamins, minerals and plant extracts, without focusing on the absence of an evidence base for specific dietary supplements.

A critical analysis of scientific data shows that:

• Immunity support: Some ingredients of the Federal Law, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc and echinacea extract, can really have a positive effect on the immune system. However, the effectiveness of these components in the prevention and treatment of infections remains the subject of discussions, and the research results are often contradictory.
• Cardiovascular system: Omega-3 fatty acids contained in some Federal Laws have proven health benefits for the heart and vascular system, reducing triglycerides, blood pressure and the risk of arrhythmias. However, other ingredients declared as useful for the heart, such as Q10 coenzyme, require further research.
• Brain function: Some studies show that vitamins of group B, omega-3 fatty acids and ginkgo bilobic extract can have a positive effect on cognitive functions. However, these effects are usually insignificant and observed only in people with a deficiency of these substances or with age -related changes in the brain.
• Protection Baked: The extract of milk thistle (silimarin) has hepatoprotective properties and can be used to maintain liver health. However, the effectiveness of silimarin in the treatment of serious liver diseases, such as cirrhosis and hepatitis, remains controversial.
• Digestion and microflora: Probiotics and prebiotics contained in some Federal Law can contribute to normalizing intestinal microflora and improving digestion. However, the effectiveness of probiotics depends on the strain of bacteria, dose and individual characteristics of the body.
• Bones and joints: Calcium, vitamin D and magnesium are necessary for the health of bones and joints. However, the effectiveness of these substances in the prevention of osteoporosis and arthritis depends on many factors, including genetic predisposition, lifestyle and nutrition.
• Skin, hair and nails: Vitamins A, C, E and BIOTIN play an important role in maintaining the health of the skin, hair and nails. However, the deficiency of these vitamins is relatively rare, and the additional technique of these substances usually does not lead to a noticeable improvement in the condition of the skin, hair and nails, if there is no obvious deficiency.

1.3. The mechanisms of action of the components of the dietary supplement “Formula of Health”: biochemical processes and interaction with the body.

Understanding the mechanisms of action of the components of the Federal Law allows us to more reasonably assess their potential benefits and risks. Consider the main biochemical processes in which the most common ingredients are involved:

• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage to free radicals. It is also involved in the synthesis of collagen necessary for the health of the skin, bones and connective tissue. Vitamin C enhances the absorption of iron and supports the immune system, stimulating the activity of leukocytes.

• B vitamins B: B vitamins are involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, providing the body with energy. They are also necessary for the health of the nervous system, hematopoiesis and DNA synthesis. Each B vitamin performs its specific functions. For example, vitamin B1 (thiamine) is necessary for glucose metabolism, vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is involved in redox reactions, vitamin B3 (niacin) is involved in energy metabolism, vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) is involved in the synthesis of coherent A, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) participates in Amino acid metabolism, vitamin B7 (biotin) is involved in the synthesis of fatty acids, vitamin B9 (folic acid) is involved in the synthesis of DNA and RNA, vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is necessary for hematopoiesis and health of the nervous system.

• Vitamin D (cholegalciferol): Vitamin D regulates the exchange of calcium and phosphorus, providing bone and teeth. It also participates in the regulation of the immune system, cell growth and differentiation. Vitamin D is activated in the liver and kidneys, turning into an active form of calcitriol, which binds to the receptors in the intestines, bones and kidneys, regulating the level of calcium in the blood.

• Vitamin E (Tokoferol): Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage to free radicals. It also participates in the regulation of the immune system and blood coagulation. Vitamin E protects polyunsaturated fatty acids in cell membranes from oxidation.

• Calcium: Calcium is the main component of bone tissue and is necessary to maintain its strength. He also participates in the regulation of muscle contraction, nervous conduction, blood coagulation and hormone secretion. Calcium enters the body with food and is absorbed in the intestines under the influence of vitamin D.

• Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including ATP synthesis (the main energy source for cells), DNA and RNA synthesis, and the regulation of muscle contraction and nervous conduction. Magnesium is also important for bone health and cardiovascular system.

• Zinc: Zinc is involved in the regulation of the immune system, healing of wounds, synthesis of DNA and RNA, as well as in the work of enzymes necessary for digestion of food. Zinc is also important for the health of the skin, hair and nails.

• Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA): Omega-3 fatty acids are components of cell membranes and are involved in the regulation of inflammatory processes, blood coagulation and blood pressure. EPA and DHA have various functions. EPA is the precursor of eicosanoids, which regulate the inflammation and coagulation of blood. DHA is important for the health of the brain and vision.

• Probiotics: Probiotics colonize the intestines and displace pathogenic microorganisms. They also produce vitamins, enzymes and other beneficial substances that improve digestion and strengthen the immune system. Probiotics stimulate the production of immunoglobulin A (IgA), which protects the intestinal mucosa from infections.

• Prebiotics: Prebiotics serve as food for probiotics, contributing to their growth and reproduction. They also improve digestion and reduce the risk of constipation. Prebiotics are fermented in the intestines, forming short -chain fatty acids (KVK), such as Butirates, which are a source of energy for intestinal cells and have an anti -inflammatory effect.

Section 2: Legal status of dietary supplements “Formula of Health” in Russia and the world. Regulation, quality control and marking requirements.

In the Russian Federation, dietary supplements, including the Federal Law, are regulated by the Federal Law of 02.01.2000 N 29-ФЗ “On the quality and safety of food products” and sanitary-epidemiological rules and standards (SanPiN). In accordance with the legislation, dietary supplements relate to food products and are not subject to compulsory state registration as drugs. However, before issuing dietary supplements, dietary supplements must undergo a state registration procedure in Rospotrebnadzor.

2.1. Registration of dietary supplements “Formula of Health” in Rospotrebnadzor: the procedure and the necessary documents.

For state registration of Bad in Rospotrebnadzor, the following package of documents must be provided:

• Application for state registration.
• Documents confirming the compliance of the products with safety requirements (test protocols, expert conclusions).
• Documents confirming the composition of the product (specifications, recipes).
• Label or label layout.
• Instructions for use.
• Documents confirming ownership of products or the right to use it.
• A document confirming the payment of the state fee.

In the process of registration, Rospotrebnadzor conducts an examination of the submitted documents and product samples for compliance with safety and efficiency requirements. Particular attention is paid to the composition of the product, the presence of harmful substances and the correspondence of the declared properties by actual. If inconsistencies are detected in registration, it may be denied.

2.2. Requirements for the labeling of dietary supplements “Formula of Health”: the content of information, restrictions and responsibility for inaccurate information.

The marking of dietary supplements, including the Federal Law, must comply with the requirements of the technical regulations of the Customs Union TR TS 022/2011 “Food products in terms of its marking.” The marking should be clear, easy to read and contain the following information:

• Product name (biologically active food supplement).
• The composition of the product (a list of all ingredients in decreasing their mass).
• Information about the nutritional value (calorie content, content of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients).
• Information about the purpose of the product (for which dietary supplements are intended).
• Recommendations for use (dose, method of application, duration of admission).
• Contraindications to use (individual intolerance to components, pregnancy, breastfeeding and others).
• Warnings (about the need to consult a doctor before use, about incompatibility with some drugs and others).
• Shelf life and storage conditions.
• Name and location of the manufacturer.
• Information about state registration.
• A single sign of the circulation of products in the market of the Customs Union member states (EAS sign).

It is important to note that the marking of dietary supplements should not contain information about the healing properties of the product, as well as the inaccurate or misleading information. For violation of labeling requirements, the manufacturer is liable in accordance with the legislation of the Russian Federation.

2.3. Quality control “Formula of Health” at the stages of production and implementation: HASSP, GMP system and other standards.

Quality control of dietary supplements is an important aspect of ensuring their safety and efficiency. At the stages of the production and implementation of the Federal Law, the requirements of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points should be observed, which allows you to identify and control dangerous factors affecting the quality and safety of products.

In addition, dietary supplement manufacturers are striving to meet the requirements of GMP (good manufactoring practice) – standards that determine the rules for the production and quality control of drugs. Although the compliance of GMP is not mandatory for dietary supplement manufacturers, its compliance indicates a high level of production organization and guarantees product quality.

The quality control of dietary supplements is also carried out by the Rospotrebnadzor authorities as part of planned and unscheduled inspections. During the inspections, product samples are selected for laboratory tests for compliance with safety and quality requirements. In case of violations of the manufacturer, administrative measures may be applied, including the suspension of production and the removal of products from the circulation.

2.4. Regulation of the “Formula of Health” in other countries: a comparison of approaches and requirements.

The regulation of dietary supplements in different countries of the world is significantly different. In some countries, such as the United States, dietary supplements are regulated as food products and are not subject to mandatory state registration. In other countries, such as Germany and France, dietary supplements are regulated as drugs and are subject to strict registration and control.

The European Union has a directive of 2002/46/EC, which establishes the general requirements for dietary supplements, including the composition, labeling and safety. However, individual EU member countries can establish their own rules and dietary supplements.

In the United States, dietary supplements are regulated by the sanitary supervision of the quality of food and medication (FDA) in accordance with the Law on Food Addles, Health and Education (DSHEA) from 1994. In accordance with DSHEA, dietary supplement manufacturers are not required to receive FDA approval before issuing products on the market. However, the FDA has the right to withdraw from the turnover of dietary supplements recognized as dangerous or containing inaccurate information.

A comparison of approaches to the regulation of dietary supplements in different countries shows that in Russia the regulation of dietary supplements is relatively liberal. However, in recent years there has been a tendency to tighten the requirements for dietary supplements, which is associated with the growth of the popularity of these products and an increase in the number of cases of unfair competition and violations of consumer rights.

Section 3: Clinical studies of dietary supplements “Formula of Health”: results, methodology and interpretation of data.

Clinical studies are an important tool for evaluating the effectiveness and safety of drugs and dietary supplements. However, in relation to dietary supplements, including the Federal Law, the number and quality of clinical studies often leaves much to be desired.

3.1. Available clinical studies of dietary supplements “Health Formula”: Analysis of publications and research protocols.

The search for information about clinical research of the Federal Law in the scientific databases, such as Pubmed, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar, shows that the number of publications devoted directly to the efficiency and safety of specific FZ products is limited. Most available studies are small pilot studies with a low level of evidence.

An analysis of available publications shows that some studies were conducted using a placebo-controlled double blind method, which is considered a “gold standard” of clinical research. However, many studies have methodological disadvantages, such as a small sample size, the absence of a control group, an inadequate choice of endpoints and a prejudice interpretation of the results.

Research protocols, as a rule, are not publicly available, which complicates the assessment of their quality and transparency. The lack of open information about the research methodology creates the prerequisites for falsifying data and publishing biased results.

3.2. Methodology of clinical studies of dietary supplements “Formula of Health”: design, sample, evaluation criteria and statistical data processing.

The methodology of clinical studies of dietary supplements should comply with generally accepted standards for medical research. Important elements of the methodology are:

• Research design: Clinical studies of dietary supplements can be of various types, including randomized controlled studies (RCTs), coherent studies, studies of “Case-control” and cross-studies. RCTs are the most reliable type of research that allows you to establish a causal relationship between the use of dietary supplements and the observed effects.
• Sample: The sample size should be sufficient to identify statistically significant differences between groups. The sample should be representative for the target population, that is, reflect the demographic characteristics, health status and other factors that can affect the results of the study.
• Criteria for inclusion and exceptions: Criteria for inclusion and exceptions should be clearly defined and justified. They allow you to select patients who most likely benefit from the use of dietary supplements and in which the risk of developing side effects is minimal.
• Criteria Evaluations: Evaluation criteria should be objective, reliable and valid. They should reflect the main effects that are expected from the use of dietary supplements, as well as possible side effects.
• Statistical data processing: Statistical data processing should be carried out using adequate statistical methods. The results of the study should be presented in an understandable and affordable form, indicating the statistical significance, trusting intervals and the size of the effect.

3.3. Interpretation of the results of clinical studies of dietary supplements “Formula of Health”: statistical significance, clinical significance and bias of researchers.

The interpretation of the results of clinical research of dietary supplements requires a critical approach and accounting for many factors. It is important to distinguish between statistical significance and clinical significance. Statistical significance means that the observed differences between the groups are not accidental and are due to the use of dietary supplements. However, statistically significant differences are not always clinically significant, that is, they do not always lead to a noticeable improvement in the patient’s health.

The clinical significance is evaluated on the basis of the expert opinion of doctors and patients, as well as on the basis of an analysis of the influence of dietary supplements on the quality of life of the patient. It is also important to take into account the possible bias of researchers, which can affect the design of the study, the choice of evaluation criteria and the interpretation of the results.

The bias of researchers can be determined by various factors, such as financing the research by the manufacturer of Bad, personal interest in the positive results of the study and ideological beliefs. To minimize the risk of bias, it is necessary to conduct research using a placebo-controlled double blind method and attract independent experts to evaluate the results.

3.4. Meta-analyzes and systematic reviews on the effectiveness of individual components of the dietary supplement “Formula of Health”: Assessment of the evidence base.

Met-analyzes and systematic reviews are powerful tools for evaluating the effectiveness and safety of medical interventions, including the use of dietary supplements. The meta analysis combines the results of several clinical studies conducted on the same topic, and allows you to get a more accurate assessment of the effect. A systematic review is a critical analysis of all available studies on a specific topic, with the assessment of their methodological quality and the identification of possible systematic errors.

The search for information about meta analysis and systematic reviews on the effectiveness of individual components of the Federal Law shows that the evidence base for many ingredients remains limited. Some meta-analyzes and systematic reviews confirm the effectiveness of individual components such as omega-3 fatty acids for the health of the cardiovascular system and vitamin D for bone health. However, for many other components, such as plant extracts and probiotics, the evidence base remains contradictory and requires further research.

It is important to consider that the results of meta-analyzes and systematic reviews depend on the quality of the studies included in them. If meta analysis is based on research with low methodological quality, its results may be unreliable. Therefore, when interpreting the results of meta-analyzes and systematic reviews, it is necessary to take into account the methodological quality of the studies included in them and evaluate the risk of systematic errors.

Section 4: Safety of Bades “Formula of Health”: side effects, interaction with drugs and contraindications.

The safety of dietary supplements is an important aspect of their use. Although dietary supplements are usually considered safer than drugs, they can also cause side effects, interact with drugs and have contraindications.

4.1. Possible side effects of dietary supplements “Formula of Health”: Analysis of reports of adverse reactions and clinical studies.

Side effects of dietary supplements can be different and depend on the composition of the product, dose, individual characteristics of the body and the presence of concomitant diseases. The most common side effects are:

• Gastrointestinal disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain. These side effects are often associated with intolerance to individual dietary supplements or with an irritating effect on the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema. Allergic reactions can be caused by any dietary supplement component, including plant extracts, vitamins, minerals and excipients.
• Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. For example, vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants, and grapefruit extract can enhance the effect of some drugs.
• Other side effects: Headache, dizziness, increased blood pressure, sleep disorders, a change in blood sugar.

An analysis of reports about adverse reactions and clinical studies shows that the side effects of the Federal Law are usually easy and transient. However, in rare cases, serious side effects that require medical care may occur. It is important to report any side effects that arose when using dietary supplements, a doctor or to the bodies of Rospotrebnadzor.

4.2. The interaction of dietary supplements “Health Formula” with drugs: clinically significant interactions and mechanisms of action.

The interaction of dietary supplements with drugs is an important problem, since it can lead to a decrease in the effectiveness of treatment or to increase the risk of developing side effects. Clinically significant interactions of dietary supplements with medicines include:

• Vitamin K and anticoagulants: Vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants, such as warfarin, increasing the risk of thrombosis.
• Grapefruit and medicine extract metabolized by the enzyme CYP3A4: Grapefruit extract can inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme, which is involved in the metabolism of many drugs, increasing their concentration in the blood and the risk of side effects.
• St. John’s wort and antidepressants: St. John’s wort can interact with antidepressants, such as selective serotonin (SIOS) retreating inhibitors, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome.
• Coenzim q10 i Statin: Coenzyme Q10 can reduce the effectiveness of statins, drugs used to reduce blood cholesterol.
• Railway and Levothyroxine: Iron can reduce the absorption of levotiroxin, thyroid hormone used to treat hypothyroidism.

The mechanisms of interaction between dietary supplements with medicines can be different and include:

• Change in absorption: Bades can affect the absorption of drugs in the intestines, reducing or increasing their concentration in the blood.
• Change in metabolism: Bades can affect the metabolism of drugs in the liver, changing their concentration in the blood and duration of action.
• Change of excretion: Bades can affect the elimination of medicines from the body with kidneys, changing their concentration in the blood and the duration of the action.
• Synergism or antagonism: Bades can enhance or weaken the effect of drugs, leading to an increase or decrease in their effectiveness.

4.3. Contraindications to the use of dietary supplements “Formula of Health”: individual intolerance, pregnancy, breastfeeding, disease and condition.

Contraindications to the use of dietary supplements can be common and specific. General contraindications include:

• Individual intolerance to dietary supplements: Allergic reactions to any component of dietary supplements are a contraindication to its use.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The use of dietary supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires caution and consultation with a doctor, since some components of dietary supplements can have a negative impact on the development of the fetus or child.
• Childhood: The use of dietary supplements in children requires caution and consultation with a doctor, since some components of dietary supplements can be toxic for children.
• Severe liver and kidney diseases: In severe diseases of the liver and kidneys, the use of dietary supplements can be contraindicated, since the liver and kidneys play an important role in metabolism and remove the components of dietary supplements from the body.

Specific contraindications depend on the composition of a particular dietary supplement and may include:

• Thyroid diseases: The dietary supplements containing iodine are contraindicated in hyperthyroidism.
• Diseases of the cardiovascular system: Dietary supplements containing caffeine are contraindicated in arrhythmias and high blood pressure.
• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: Bades containing plant extracts can be contraindicated in peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum.
• Autoimmune diseases: Bades stimulating the immune system can be contraindicated in autoimmune diseases.

4.4. The risk of an overdose of the “Health Formula” dietary supplements: the toxicity of individual components and the consequences of excess of the recommended doses.

An overdose of dietary supplements can be dangerous and lead to various side effects and even poisoning. The risk of an overdose depends on the toxicity of the individual components of the dietary supplement and on the amount of the accepted product.

Some vitamins and minerals have high toxicity, and excess of recommended doses can lead to serious consequences. For example, an overdose of vitamin A can cause headache, nausea, vomiting, hair loss and liver damage. An overdose of vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia, which can lead to damage to the kidneys and cardiovascular system. An overdose of iron can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and liver damage.

Plant extracts can also be toxic in large doses. For example, an overdose of St. John’s wort extract can cause photosensitization, that is, increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight. An overdose of echinacea extract can cause allergic reactions.

It is important to strictly observe the recommended doses of the dietary supplements indicated on the packaging, and not exceed them without consulting a doctor. If any side effects appear after taking a dietary supplement, it is necessary to stop its use and consult a doctor.

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