Bad: how to choose a safe product

Bad: how to choose a safe product

I. What are dietary supplements and why are they popular?

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are not drugs, but concentrates of biologically active substances intended for direct intake with food or introduction into food products. They are designed to make up for the lack of substances necessary for the body, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, probiotics, prebiotics, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PNS), dietary fiber and other components.

The popularity of dietary supplements is due to several factors:

• A growing interest in a healthy lifestyle: People care more about their health, strive for longevity and prevention of diseases. Bades are positioned as a way of maintaining health and improving well -being.
• The modern rhythm of life and food: Unstable nutrition, fast food, stress, environmental pollution – all this leads to a deficiency of the necessary substances in the body. Bades are offered as a solution to replenish these deficits.
• Wide availability and active advertising: Bad can be bought in pharmacies, online stores, supermarkets and even through network marketing. Aggressive advertising promises miraculous effects and attracts the attention of consumers.
• Faith in nature and safety: Many people consider dietary supplements natural products, safer than medicines. However, this is not always the case.

II. Legal regulation of dietary supplements: what do you need to know?

In Russia, the turnover of dietary supplements is regulated by the Federal Law of 02.01.2000 No. 29-ФЗ “On the quality and safety of food products” and the requirements of the technical regulations of the Customs Union (TR TS). The most important of them is TR TS 021/2011 “On the safety of food products.”

The main points of legal regulation:

• State registration: Before entering the sale, dietary supplements should undergo state registration in the Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights and Human Blessing (Rospotrebnadzor). Registration confirms the compliance of dietary supplements with safety and quality requirements.
• Marking: Bad marking should contain reliable and complete information about the product, including:
  • Name (for example, “Biologically active food supplement – vitamin C”).
  • Composition (list of ingredients in the order of waning mass).
  • Output form (tablets, capsules, powder, etc.).
  • Net mass or volume.
  • Best before date.
  • Storage conditions.
  • Recommendations for use.
  • Contraindications for use.
  • Information about the manufacturer (name, address).
  • The number of the certificate of state registration.
  • The inscription: “Not a medicinal product.”
• Production requirements: The production of dietary supplements must comply with the requirements of sanitary rules and norms, as well as HAZARD ANALYSIS and Critical Control Points) – food safety management systems.
• Quality control: Rospotrebnadzor monitors the quality and safety of dietary supplements at all stages of turnover – from production to implementation.

It is important to understand that state registration of dietary supplements does not mean that it is effective. It only confirms that the product is safe subject to the recommended dosages. The effectiveness of dietary supplements is often not proved by clinical research, and manufacturers may not be justified about miraculous properties.

III. How to choose a safe dietary supplement: step -by -step instructions

The choice of dietary supplements is a responsible process that requires an attentive approach. In order not to harm your health and not spend money, follow this step -by -step instruction:

1. Consultation with a doctor: Before starting to take any dietary supplement, be sure to consult a doctor. Only a doctor can determine if you really need this product, taking into account your individual needs, health status and medications taken. It will also help to choose the optimal dosage and duration of the reception.
2. Definition Aims accept: Clearly determine what goal you pursue when taking dietary supplements. For example, whether you want to strengthen immunity, improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails, normalize sleep or increase energy. Knowing the goal, it will be easier for you to choose a suitable product.
3. Study of the composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement. Make sure that it contains only the ingredients you need, in sufficient quantities. Avoid products with dubious additives, artificial dyes, flavors and preservatives. Pay attention to the form of ingredients. For example, vitamin D3 is preferable to vitamin D2. Magnesium in the form of citrate or glycinate is better absorbed than magnesium oxide.
4. Checking the certificate of state registration (SGR): On the package of the dietary supplement, the number of the SGR must be indicated. Check the authenticity of the SGR on the Rospotrebnadzor website (Fr.rospotrebnadzor.ru) in the section “Register of certificates of state registration”. Make sure that the product is really registered and corresponds to the declared characteristics.
5. The choice of a reliable manufacturer: Give preference to products of well -known and trusted manufacturers with a good reputation in the market. Study reviews about the manufacturer and its products on the Internet.
6. Marking analysis: Carefully study the marking of Bad. Make sure that it contains all the necessary information, including the composition, recommendations for use, contraindications, shelf life and information about the manufacturer. Pay attention to warnings and side effects.
7. Price rating: Too low price may indicate low product quality or fake. Do not save on your health.
8. Buying in proven places: Buy dietary supplements only in pharmacies or specialized stores licensed for the sale of pharmaceutical products. Avoid buying dietary supplements from unverified sellers on the Internet or through network marketing.
9. Careful observation of the reaction of the body: After the start of taking Bad, carefully monitor the reaction of your body. If you have any side effects, immediately stop taking it and consult a doctor.
10. Conscious consumption: Remember that dietary supplements are not a panacea. They will not replace a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet and regular physical exercises. Treat Badam as a supplement to a healthy lifestyle, and not as a replacement.

IV. Dangerous ingredients and fakes: how to protect yourself?

Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous manufacturers in the dietary supplement market who add dangerous ingredients to their products or fake well -known brands. To protect yourself from fakes and hazardous substances, you need to know what to pay attention to.

Dangerous ingredients that may occur in dietary supplements:

• Forbidden substances: Some dietary supplements may contain prohibited substances, such as anabolic steroids, sibutramine (for losing weight), sildenafil (to improve potency) and other drugs not declared in the composition. These substances can be dangerous to health and cause serious side effects.
• Heavy metals: Vegetable dietary supplements, especially imported from countries with an unfavorable environmental situation, may contain heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic). The high content of heavy metals can lead to poisoning and development of various diseases.
• Microorganisms: Bades can be polluted by pathogenic microorganisms (salmonella, E. coli, staphylococcus), which can cause food poisoning.
• Allergens: Bades can contain allergens such as gluten, lactose, soy, nuts, fish and seafood. People with allergies need to carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and avoid products containing allergens.
• Unknown substances: Some manufacturers can use unidentified or poorly studied substances whose safety has not been proven.

Signs of fake dietary supplements:

• Low price: Fakes are usually sold at a significantly lower price than original products.
• Poor packaging: Packaging of a fake dietary supplement can be made of low -quality materials, have print defects, fuzzy marking or missing protection elements (holograms, protective films).
• The inconsistency of the composition: The composition of a fake dietary supplement may not correspond to the declared on the package. For example, instead of vitamins, cheap fillers can be added.
• Lack of certificate of state registration: On the packaging of a fake dietary supplement may not be the number of the SGR or an invalid number is indicated.
• Suspective seller: The purchase of a dietary supplement from a unverified seller on the Internet or through network marketing increases the risk of acquiring a fake.

How to protect yourself from fakes and hazardous substances:

• Buy dietary supplements only in pharmacies or specialized stores licensed for the sale of pharmaceutical products.
• Carefully check the package of dietary supplements for signs of fake.
• Check the authenticity of the certificate of state registration on the Rospotrebnadzor website.
• Avoid buying dietary supplements from unverified sellers.
• Report suspicious dietary supplements in Rospotrebnadzor.

V. Varieties of dietary supplement and their features

Bades are classified according to various signs: composition, form of release, purpose, etc. Consider the main varieties of dietary supplements and their features.

By composition:

• Vitamin-mineral complexes: Contain a combination of vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain health.
• Amino acids: Contain amino acids – building blocks of proteins necessary for the growth and restoration of tissues.
• Probiotics and prebiotics: They contain living microorganisms (probiotics) or substances that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines (prebiotics).
• PNSK (polyunsaturated fatty acids): Contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids necessary for the health of the heart, brain and joints.
• Plant extracts: They contain extracts of various plants that have useful properties (for example, echinacea extract to strengthen immunity, ginkgo biloba extract to improve memory).
• Food fibers: Contain the fiber necessary for the normal functioning of the intestines and control of the level of cholesterol.
• Enzymes: Contain the enzymes necessary for digestion of food.

By the form of release:

• Tablets: A solid dosed dosage form intended for oral administration.
• Capsules: A solid gelatin membrane containing powder, granules or liquid.
• Powders: Dry form of dietary supplements intended for dissolution in water or other liquid.
• Liquids (solutions, syrups): The liquid form of dietary supplements intended for oral administration.
• Chewing pastries: The soft chewing form of dietary supplements intended for oral administration.

By purpose:

• To strengthen immunity: Contain vitamins C, D, zinc, echinacea and other substances that strengthen the immune system.
• To improve digestion: Contain probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes and dietary fibers that normalize the intestines.
• For the health of the heart and blood vessels: Contain omega-3 fatty acids, Q10 coenzyme and other substances that support the health of the cardiovascular system.
• To improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails: Contain vitamins A, E, C, BIOTIN, Zinc, Selenium and other substances necessary for the health of the skin, hair and nails.
• To improve memory and concentration: Contain ginkgo biloba, ginseng, caffeine and other substances that improve cognitive functions.
• To increase energy and endurance: Contain vitamins of group B, L-carnitine, coenzyme Q10 and other substances that increase energy and endurance.
• To reduce weight: Contain fiber, chrome, green tea extract and other substances that contribute to weight loss.

VI. Interaction of dietary supplements with medicines and other dietary supplements

Bades can interact with drugs and other dietary supplements, enhancing or weakening their effect, as well as causing undesirable side effects. Therefore, it is important to inform the doctor about taking any dietary supplements, especially if you take medicines.

Examples of the interaction of dietary supplements with medicines:

• Vitamin K and anticoagulants: Vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants (drugs that thin blood), such as warfarin.
• St. John’s wort and antidepressants: St. John’s wort can enhance the effect of antidepressants, which can lead to the development of serotonin syndrome.
• Grapefruit juice and statins: Grapefruit juice can increase the concentration of statins (drugs that reduce cholesterol) in the blood, which can increase the risk of side effects.
• Iron and antibiotics: Iron can reduce the effectiveness of some antibiotics, such as tetracyclines and chinolons.
• Calcium and antibiotics: Calcium can reduce the effectiveness of some antibiotics, such as tetracyclines and chinolons.

Examples of the interaction of dietary supplements with other dietary supplements:

• Vitamin C and iron: Vitamin C can improve iron absorption.
• Calcium and vitamin D: Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium.
• Zinc and copper: High doses of zinc can reduce copper assimilation.
• Iron and zinc: Iron can reduce zinc assimilation.

To avoid unwanted interactions, follow the following rules:

• Inform the doctor about taking any dietary supplements, especially if you take medicines.
• Do not take a few dietary supplements at the same time without consulting a doctor.
• Carefully study the composition of dietary supplements and avoid taking dietary supplements containing ingredients that can interact with your medicines.
• Follow the recommended dosages of dietary supplements.
• Carefully monitor the reaction of your body after the start of the Bad and immediately stop taking it if you have any side effects.

VII. Dietary supplements for children, pregnant and nursing women

Reception of dietary supplements with children, pregnant and lactating women requires special attention and mandatory consultation with a doctor.

Bad for children:

• Children are not recommended to give dietary supplements without consulting a pediatrician.
• Children get many vitamins and minerals from food. Additional intake of dietary supplements can be necessary only with a deficiency of certain substances confirmed by laboratory studies.
• For children, there are special dietary supplements developed taking into account their needs and age characteristics.
• It is important to follow the recommended dosages of dietary supplements for children to avoid overdose and side effects.

Bad for pregnant women:

• Pregnant women are recommended to take folic acid (vitamin B9) for the prevention of defects in the nervous tube in the fetus.
• Also, pregnant women may recommend taking vitamin D, iron, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Reception of any other dietary supplements during pregnancy must be agreed with a doctor.
• Some dietary supplements can be contraindicated during pregnancy, as they can harm the fetus.

Dietary dietary supplements:

• Nursing women are recommended to continue taking vitamins and minerals that they took during pregnancy.
• Also, nursing women can be recommended to take calcium, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Reception of any other dietary supplements during breastfeeding must be agreed with a doctor.
• Some dietary supplements can penetrate into breast milk and harm the baby.

VIII. Alternative approaches to maintaining health

Bades are not the only way to maintain health. There are other alternative approaches that can be more effective and safe.

• Balanced nutrition: Proper and diverse nutrition is the basis of health. Try to consume enough fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, protein and healthy fats.
• Regular physical exercises: Physical activity helps maintain the health of the heart, bones, muscles and joints, and also improves mood and reduces stress levels.
• Sufficient sleep: Sleep is necessary to restore the body and maintain the normal functioning of the immune system.
• Stress management: Chronic stress can negatively affect health. Learn to manage stress using meditation, yoga, breathing exercises or other methods.
• Refusal of bad habits: Smoking and abuse of alcohol harm health and increase the risk of developing many diseases.
• Regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations help identify diseases at an early stage and prevent their development.

Before starting to take dietary supplements, try to adjust your lifestyle and food. Perhaps this will be enough to maintain health and well -being. If you still decide to take dietary supplements, be sure to consult a doctor and choose the products responsibly.

IX. Future of dietary supplements: trends and prospects

The dietary supplement market continues to develop and grow. In the future, the following trends and prospects can be expected:

• The growth of the popularity of personalized dietary supplements: Personalized dietary supplements are developed taking into account the individual needs and genetic characteristics of a person. They allow you to get a more effective and safe result.
• Development of scientific research of dietary supplements: More and more clinical studies are being conducted to assess the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements. This will help prove the benefits of dietary supplements and separate them from placebo.
• Strengthening control over the quality of dietary supplements: Rospotrebnadzor enhances control over the quality and safety of dietary supplements, which will help protect consumers from fakes and hazardous substances.
• Development of new forms of prolonged dietary supplements: New forms of prolonged dietary supplement are developed, such as liposomal capsules, nanoparticles and other technologies that improve the absorption of ingredients.
• Integration of dietary supplements into the healthcare system: In some countries, dietary supplements are integrated into the healthcare system and are used to prevent and treat certain diseases under the supervision of a doctor.

The future of dietary supplements depends on the development of scientific research, strengthening control over the quality and awareness of consumers. If dietary supplements are developed and applied on the basis of scientific data and under the supervision of doctors, they can become a valuable tool for maintaining health and improving the quality of life.

X. FAQ: Frequently asked questions about dietary supplements

• Is dietary supplements? No, dietary supplements are not medicines.
• Do I need to take dietary supplements? The need to receive dietary supplements is determined by a doctor on the basis of your individual needs and health status.
• Which dietary supplements are best taken to strengthen immunity? To strengthen immunity, you can take vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, echinacea and other substances.
• Is it possible to take dietary supplements during pregnancy? Reception of dietary supplements during pregnancy must be coordinated with a doctor.
• How to choose a safe dietary supplement? Follow the step -by -step instructions described in section III.
• Where to buy dietary supplements? Buy dietary supplements only in pharmacies or specialized stores licensed for the sale of pharmaceutical products.
• Can dietary supplement interact with medicines? Yes, dietary supplements can interact with medicines. Inform the doctor about taking any dietary supplements.
• What side effects can be from the intake of dietary supplements? Side effects on the use of dietary supplements depend on the composition of the product and the individual reaction of the body.
• How long can you take dietary supplements? The duration of the reception of dietary supplements is determined by the doctor.
• Can a healthy diet can be replaced with dietary supplements? No, dietary supplements do not replace a healthy diet.

Remember to consult with your doctor before taking any supplements. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.