Real damage to dietary supplements: what everyone needs to know

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Real damage to dietary supplements: what everyone needs to know

I. Definition and classification of dietary supplements:

1. What are dietary supplements? Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrates of natural or identical biologically active substances, designed for direct consumption with food or introduction into food products. They are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Their goal is to replenish the deficiency of substances necessary for the body, support the functions of organs and systems, and increase resistance to adverse environmental factors.

2. The main components of dietary supplements: Bades can contain vitamins, minerals, amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PNS), dietary fiber, probiotics, prebiotics, plant extracts, beekeeping products, mushrooms and other biologically active substances.

3. Bades release forms: Bades are produced in various forms: tablets, capsules, powders, solutions, syrups, chewing loaves, bars, etc.

4. Classification of dietary supplements by purpose:

   • Nutricevtiki: They are used to replenish the deficiency of essential food substances (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, PNZHK, etc.).
   • Parafarmetzetics: They are used for prevention, auxiliary therapy and maintenance of the functional activity of organs and systems.
   • Probiotics and prebiotics: contain living microorganisms or substances that stimulate the growth of beneficial intestinal microflora.

5. The regulatory framework of dietary supplement regulation: In Russia, dietary supplements are subject to state registration in Rospotrebnadzor. The production and turnover of dietary supplements are regulated by the Federal Law “On the quality and safety of food products” and sanitary rules and norms (SanPiN). On the packaging of dietary supplements, information on the composition, manufacturer, expiration date, method of application and contraindications should be indicated. It is important to understand that state registration is not a confirmation of dietary supplements, but only guarantees its safety subject to recommendations for use.

II. Potential damage to dietary supplements:

1. Lack of proven effectiveness: Many dietary supplements do not have a sufficient scientific base confirming their declared effectiveness. Marketing statements are often exaggerated and are not true. This can lead to a waste of money and delayed the necessary treatment.

2. Unpredictable composition and quality: Quality control of dietary supplements is less strict than the control of drugs. This means that the composition of the dietary supplement may not correspond to the declared on the label. They may contain impurities, pollutants, toxic substances or drugs not indicated in the composition.

3. Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect. This can lead to unpredictable consequences, including side effects and reducing the effectiveness of treatment. Intections with drugs affecting blood coagulation, blood pressure, blood sugar and liver function are especially dangerous.

4. Side effects and allergic reactions: Bades can cause various side effects, such as digestive disorders (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation), headache, dizziness, skin rash, itching, etc. In people with allergies of dietary supplements, can cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock.

5. An overdose of vitamins and minerals (hypervitaminosis, hypermineralization): The uncontrolled reception of dietary supplements containing vitamins and minerals can lead to an overdose, which is fraught with serious health consequences. For example, an overdose of vitamin A can cause damage to the liver, vitamin D – calcium deposition in soft tissues, iron – damage to organs and systems.

6. Toxic effects on the liver and kidneys: Some dietary supplements, especially those containing plant extracts, can have a toxic effect on the liver and kidneys. This is due to the fact that these organs are responsible for the elimination of toxins from the body, and overloading them with toxic substances can lead to damage.

7. Masks of serious diseases: Reception of dietary supplements to alleviate the symptoms of the disease can disguise serious diseases and delay the doctor. This can lead to the progression of the disease and the worsening of the prognosis.

8. Risk for certain population groups (pregnant, lactating, children, elderly): Some dietary supplements are contraindicated in pregnant and nursing women, children and older people. In these groups of the population, the body is more sensitive to the effects of biologically active substances, and intake of dietary supplements can lead to unpredictable consequences.

9. Psychological dependence: Some people become psychologically dependent on dietary supplements, believing that they are necessary to maintain health and well -being. This can lead to uncontrollable reception of dietary supplements and neglect of a healthy lifestyle.

10. Consumer fraud and deception: The dietary supplement market attracts scammers and unscrupulous manufacturers who distribute fakes, falsifications and ineffective products. They use aggressive advertising and manipulative techniques to convince consumers of the need to purchase their products.

III. The most dangerous components of dietary supplements and their consequences:

1. Sibutramine: Sibutramine is a medicinal substance used to treat obesity. Its addition to dietary supplements for weight loss is prohibited due to serious side effects, such as increasing blood pressure, increased heart rhythm, sleep disturbance, anxiety and depression. In severe cases, Sibutramin can lead to heart attack and stroke.

2. Steroids: Steroids are hormonal drugs used to increase muscle mass and strength. Their adding to dietary supplements for athletes is prohibited due to serious side effects, such as liver damage, hormonal balance, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and mental disorders.

3. Antidepressants: Some dietary supplements, positioned as means to improve the mood and relieve stress, may contain antidepressants. This is dangerous, since antidepressants should be prescribed only by a doctor and taken under his control. An uncontrolled taking antidepressants can lead to side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, decreased libido and cancellation syndrome.

4. Laxatives: Some dietary supplements for weight loss contain laxatives that cause diarrhea and dehydration. Long -term use of laxatives can lead to violation of the electrolyte balance, intestinal damage and the development of dependence.

5. Heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic): Some dietary supplements, especially those containing plant components, can be polluted by heavy metals. Long -term exposure to heavy metals can lead to damage to the nervous system, kidneys, liver and other organs.

6. Mycotoxins (Aflatoxins, Procoxins): Mycotoxins are toxic substances produced by molds. They can pollute plant materials used to produce dietary supplements. Mycotoxins have carcinogenic properties and can cause damage to the liver and other organs.

7. Parasites and their eggs: In rare cases, dietary supplements containing plant components can be contaminated with parasites and their eggs. This can lead to infection with parasitic diseases.

8. Unprofitable ingredients: Some dietary supplements may contain ingredients not indicated on the label. This can be dangerous for people with allergies or intolerance to certain substances.

IV. Myths and misconceptions about dietary supplements:

1. Myth: Bades are natural and safe products. Fact: “Naturalness” does not guarantee security. Many natural substances can be toxic or allergic reactions. Quality control of dietary supplements is less strict than the control of drugs.

2. Myth: Bades can cure diseases. Fact: dietary supplements are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. They can only be used as an auxiliary means to maintain health and prevent diseases.

3. Myth: Bades are necessary for everyone to maintain health. Fact: Most people receive all the necessary nutrients from a balanced diet. Bades can be useful only in case of deficiency of certain substances, which should be confirmed by the results of the tests.

4. Myth: The more dietary supplements, the better. Fact: a uncontrolled dietary supplement can lead to an overdose of vitamins and minerals and cause side effects.

5. Myth: Dietary supplements have no contraindications. Fact: dietary supplements have contraindications such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, children’s age, allergies to components and certain diseases.

6. Myth: If dietary supplements are sold in a pharmacy, then it is safe and effective. Fact: Bad sale in a pharmacy is not a guarantee of its safety and efficiency. Pharmacies are required to comply with the rules for storing and implementing dietary supplements, but are not responsible for their quality and effectiveness.

7. Myth: Reviews on the Internet are a reliable source of information about dietary supplements. Fact: Reviews on the Internet can be fake or biased. You can not trust only reviews when choosing a dietary supplement.

8. Myth: Bades passed clinical trials and approved by doctors. Fact: most dietary supplements do not undergo clinical trials, and state registration is not a confirmation of their effectiveness. Before using dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor.

V. How to choose and use dietary supplements:

1. Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will determine if you have a shortage of any substances, and select a suitable dietary supplement taking into account your individual characteristics and health status.

2. The selection of the manufacturer: Choose dietary supplements of famous and reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and conduct quality control of their products. Pay attention to the availability of quality certificates.

3. Study of the composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement on the label. Make sure that there are no ingredients for which you are allergic or intolerance. Avoid dietary supplements with unknown or suspicious components.

4. Dosage check: Follow the recommended dosage indicated on the label. Do not exceed the dosage without consulting a doctor.

5. Accounting of contraindications: Consider the contraindications for the use of dietary supplements. If you have any diseases or you take medications, be sure to consult your doctor about the possibility of using dietary supplements.

6. Interaction with drugs: Tell the doctor about all drugs and dietary supplements that you take to avoid unwanted interactions.

7. Best before date: Pay attention to the shelf life of the dietary supplement. Do not use dietary supplements with an expired shelf life.

8. Storage conditions: Keep dietary supplements in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer indicated on the label.

9. Observation of your condition: During the reception of Bad, observe your condition. If you have any side effects, stop taking the dietary supplement and consult a doctor.

10. Critical thinking: Be critical of advertising promises and marketing allegations of dietary supplements. Do not trust only advertising when choosing a dietary supplement.

VI. Badam alternatives: a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet:

1. Balanced nutrition: A balanced diet, including a variety of foods from all food groups (vegetables, fruits, cereals, legumes, nuts, seeds, meat, fish, dairy products), is the best way to obtain all the necessary nutrients.

2. Regular physical activity: Regular physical activity contributes to maintaining health, strengthening immunity and improving overall well -being.

3. Sufficient sleep: A sufficient sleep (7-8 hours a day) is necessary to restore the body and maintain the normal functioning of all organs and systems.

4. Stress management: Stress management using relaxation techniques, meditation, yoga and other methods can help improve well -being and strengthen immunity.

5. Refusal of bad habits: Refusal of smoking and alcohol abuse is an important step towards a healthy lifestyle.

6. Regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations allow you to identify diseases in the early stages and start treatment in a timely manner.

7. Consultations with a nutritionist: Consultations with a nutritionist will help develop an individual food plan that takes into account your needs and health status.

VII. Conclusion:

Bades can be useful in certain situations, for example, with a deficiency of vitamins and minerals, confirmed by the results of the tests. However, it is important to remember that dietary supplements are not drugs and cannot replace full treatment. Before taking any dietary supplement, it is necessary to consult a doctor and carefully study the composition and contraindications. A healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet are the best ways to maintain health and prevent diseases. Be vigilant and do not trust unreasonable advertising promises. Your health is in your hands!

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