Bades: individual intolerance and allergic reactions

Posted on by

Bades: individual intolerance and allergic reactions. Detailed analysis

I. Introduction: the general concept of dietary supplements and risks associated with their technique

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 not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. However, despite the positioning of dietary supplements as safe means, they can cause undesirable reactions, including individual intolerance and allergic reactions. Understanding these risks is extremely important for a responsible and conscious choice of dietary supplements. The regulation of the market of DBMs is significantly different in different countries, which affects the quality and safety of products.

II. Individual intolerance to dietary supplements: mechanisms and manifestations

Individual intolerance is an atypical reaction of the body to a certain substance that is not associated with the immune mechanism of allergies. It is due to the genetic, metabolic or physiological characteristics of a particular person. In the context of dietary supplements, individual intolerance can manifest itself in the form of various symptoms depending on the composition of the additive and individual susceptibility.

  • Mechanisms of individual intolerance:

    • Enzyme deficiency: Some people experience a shortage of enzymes necessary for the breakdown of certain components of dietary supplements. For example, lactase deficiency leads to intolerance to lactose contained in some dietary supplements. Similarly, a deficiency of enzymes that metabolizing certain amino acids or other compounds can cause negative reactions.
    • Violation of the transport of substances: Problems with transport of certain substances through cell membranes or hematoencephalic barrier can lead to the accumulation of these substances in certain tissues and cause undesirable effects.
    • Violation of metabolism: Genetic or acquired disorders of metabolism of certain substances can be intensified with additional use of these substances as part of dietary supplements. For example, patients with phenylketonuria should avoid products containing asparters that is metabolized into phenylalanine.
    • Idiosyncrasy: In some cases, the mechanism of individual intolerance remains unknown. Such reactions are called idiosyncrasic. They can be associated with the individual characteristics of metabolism or the interaction of dieters with other substances in the body.
    • Reaction to fillers and additives: In addition to active ingredients, dietary supplements often contain fillers, binders, dyes and preservatives. Some of these components, such as titanium dioxide, talc, artificial dyes, can cause individual intolerance.

  • Manifestations of individual intolerance:

    • From the gastrointestinal tract: The most common manifestations of individual intolerance to dietary supplements include discomfort in the stomach, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, bloating, heartburn.
    • From the nervous system: Headache, dizziness, irritability, insomnia or drowsiness, anxiety.
    • From the skin: Itching, redness, rashes, urticaria (although urticaria is more often associated with allergies, it can be a manifestation of intolerance).
    • Other manifestations: General weakness, fatigue, changes in blood pressure, palpitations.

  • Examples of dietary supplements and related reactions of individual intolerance:

    • Dietary dietary supplements with lactose: They can cause digestive disorder in people with lactose intolerance.
    • High fiber dietary supplements: In large doses, bloating, gas formation and discomfort in the abdomen can cause.
    • Bady with caffeine or with other stimulants: They can cause insomnia, anxiety, a rapid heartbeat.
    • Bades with artificial sweeteners (aspartam, sugar): They can cause headache, abdominal discomfort.

III. Allergic reactions to dietary supplements: immunological mechanisms and classification

An allergic reaction is the hypersensitivity of the immune system to a certain substance (allergen). In contrast to individual intolerance, allergic reactions are mediated by immune mechanisms, in particular, the participation of antibodies (IgE) or T-lymphocytes. Bades may contain various potential allergens, both as part of active ingredients and in the form of excipients.

  • Immunological mechanisms of allergic reactions:

    • IgE-mediated reactions (type I): The most common type of allergic reactions. In the first contact with the allergen, the immune system produces IgE antibodies specific to this allergen. These antibodies are associated with fat cells and basophils. In case of re-contact with the allergen, allergen is binding to IgE antibodies on the surface of fat cells and basophils, which leads to degeneration of these cells and the release of allergies (histamine, leukotrienes, prostaglandins, etc.). These mediators cause various allergic symptoms. Reactions develop rapidly, usually within a few minutes or hours after contact with the allergen.
    • Cytotoxic reactions (type II): The reactions in which antibodies (IgG or IGM) are associated with antigens on the surface of the cells, which leads to the destruction of these cells by complementing or antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity. This type of reaction is less common with allergies to dietary supplements.
    • Reactions of immune complexes (type III): Reactions in which antibodies bind to allergens, forming immune complexes that are deposited in various tissues and organs, causing inflammation and damage. This type of reaction is also less common with allergies to dietary supplements.
    • Cell-mediated reactions (type IV): Reactions mediated by T-lymphocytes. In contact with the allergen, T-lymphocytes are activated and released cytokines that cause inflammation and damage to tissues. Reactions develop slowly, usually within 24-72 hours after contact with the allergen. An example is contact dermatitis caused by some components of dietary supplements.

  • Classification of allergic reactions to dietary supplements by severity:

    • Light reactions: Skin rashes (urticaria, eczema), itching, redness of the skin, runny nose, sneezing, lacrimation.
    • Moderate reactions: Quincke’s edema (edema of the face, lips, tongue, larynx), difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness.
    • Severe reactions (anaphylaxia): Pronounced Quincke’s edema, difficulty breathing, whistling breathing, a sharp decrease in blood pressure, loss of consciousness. Anaphilaxia is a life -threatening condition that requires immediate medical care.

  • Potential allergens in dietary supplements:

    • Plant components: Many dietary supplements contain extracts of herbs, plants and mushrooms that can be strong allergens. Examples: chamomile, echinacea, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, aloe vera, pollen of plants.
    • Beekeeping products: Honey, propolis, uterine milk, bee pollen are common components of dietary supplements and can cause allergic reactions in people with allergies to beekeeping products.
    • Seafood: Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids are often obtained from seafood (crustaceans, fish), which are common allergens.
    • Milk: Lactose, casein, serum proteins can be contained in dietary supplements and cause allergic reactions in people with allergies to milk.
    • Eggs: Lecithin, used as an emulsifier, can be obtained from eggs and allergies.
    • Soy: Soy lecithin, soy protein can be contained in dietary supplements and cause allergies.
    • Nuts: Oils and nuts (peanuts, almonds, walnuts) can be contained in dietary supplements and cause severe allergic reactions in people with allergies to nuts.
    • Gluten: Some dietary supplements may contain gluten as a filler or binder.
    • Dyes: Artificial dyes, such as Tartrazin (E102), can cause allergic reactions.
    • Conservatives: Benziats, sulfites can cause allergic reactions in sensitive people.
    • Fillers and binders: Gelatin, talc, titanium dioxide can cause allergic reactions in rare cases.

IV. Factors affecting the risk of individual intolerance and allergic reactions to dietary supplements

The risk of developing individual intolerance and allergic reactions to dietary supplements depends on many factors associated with both the product itself and the individual characteristics of the consumer.

  • Dietary time factors:

    • The composition of the dietary supplement: The more complicated the composition of the dietary supplement and the more potential allergens in it, the higher the risk of undesirable reactions.
    • The quality of the ingredients: Low -quality ingredients may contain impurities and pollutants that can cause allergic reactions or intolerance.
    • Production: Disorders of the production process, insufficient cleaning of equipment can lead to cross -country pollution by allergens.
    • Dosage: High doses of dietary supplements can increase the risk of undesirable reactions, especially in people with increased sensitivity.
    • Output form: Some forms of dietary supplement release (for example, chewing tablets containing dyes and flavorings) can more often cause allergic reactions.
    • Regulation: Bades produced in countries with less strict regulation can be of greater risk due to insufficient quality control.

  • Consumer factors:

    • Allergic history: People with allergies to food products, plant pollen, medicines or other allergens have an increased risk of allergic reactions to dietary supplements.
    • Atopic dermatitis, bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis: The presence of these diseases indicates an increased tendency to allergic reactions.
    • Age: Children and elderly people can be more susceptible to allergic dietary supplements.
    • Genetic predisposition: Genetic factors can affect the sensitivity to allergens and a predisposition to the development of allergic diseases.
    • Gastrointestinal diseases: Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as irritable intestinal syndrome, can increase sensitivity to dietary supplements.
    • Immunodeficiency states: People with weakened immunity can be more susceptible to undesirable reactions to dietary supplements.
    • Taking drugs: Some drugs can interact with the components of dietary supplements and increase the risk of undesirable reactions.
    • Repeated reception of dietary supplements: Repeated intake of dietary supplements containing potential allergens can increase the risk of sensitization and development of an allergic reaction.

V. Diagnosis of individual intolerance and allergic reactions to dietary supplements

Diagnosis of individual intolerance and allergic reactions to dietary supplements requires a thorough collection of an anamnesis, physical examination and special diagnostic tests.

  • A history of anamnesis:

    • A detailed survey about the symptoms, the time of their appearance, the connection with the intake of dietary supplements, the dosage, the composition of the dietary supplement, other drugs and food products taken.
    • Assessment of an allergic history (the presence of allergies to food products, medicines, plant pollen, insect bites, etc.).
    • Identification of concomitant diseases (atopic dermatitis, bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, gastrointestinal diseases).
    • Assessment of family history (the presence of allergic diseases in relatives).

  • Physical examination:

    • Assessment of the condition of the skin (the presence of rashes, redness, edema).
    • Assessment of the state of the respiratory system (the presence of shortness of breath, whistling breathing).
    • Assessment of the state of the cardiovascular system (measurement of blood pressure, pulse).
    • Assessment of the state of the gastrointestinal tract (palpation of the abdomen).

  • Diagnostic tests:

    • Skin tests (SKO-test, Scaring Test): The most common method of diagnosis of IgE-mediated allergic reactions. A small amount of allergen is applied to the skin and a puncture or scratch is made. In the presence of allergies to this allergen, redness and swelling (papula) occur at the site of application. Skin tests can be carried out with extracts of various plant components, beekeeping products, seafood and other potential allergens contained in dietary supplements.
    • Determination of specific IgE antibodies in blood serum (Rast, Elisa): A blood test that allows you to determine the presence of IgE antibodies to specific allergens. This method can be used in cases where skin tests are impossible (for example, with severe atopic dermatitis or taking antihistamines).
    • Provocative tests: Tests in which the patient gives a small amount of the suspect allergen under the supervision of a doctor and evaluate the reaction of the body. Provocative tests can be carried out with food products or dietary supplements, but they should be carried out only in a specialized medical institution, since they can cause serious allergic reactions.
    • Excluding diet: A method in which suspects of allergens (including dietary supplements) for a certain period of time (usually 2-4 weeks) are excluded from the diet and the dynamics of symptoms are evaluated. Then the allergens are gradually returned to the diet one by one to identify a specific allergen that causes symptoms.
    • Analysis of feces for dysbiosis: It can be useful for identifying disorders of intestinal microflora, which can contribute to the development of individual intolerance to dietary supplements.
    • Genetic tests: It can be useful for identifying genetic predispositions to certain types of intolerance (for example, lactose intolerance).

VI. Treatment of individual intolerance and allergic reactions to dietary supplements

The treatment of individual intolerance and allergic reactions to dietary supplements is aimed at eliminating symptoms, preventing repeated reactions and maintaining overall health.

  • Continuation of dietary supplement: The first and most important step is to immediately stop taking a dietary supplement that caused an unwanted reaction.

  • Symptomatic treatment:

    • Antihistamines: They are used to alleviate the symptoms of allergies, such as itching, urticaria, runny nose, lacrimation. Antihistamines are the first generation (for example, diphenhydramine, chloropyramin) that cause drowsiness, and second generation (for example, cetirizine, luratadin), which have less sedative effect.
    • Corticosteroids (local and systemic): Used to reduce inflammation in severe allergic reactions. Local corticosteroids (creams, ointments) are used to treat skin rashes. Systemic corticosteroids (tablets, injections) are prescribed for more serious reactions, such as Quincke’s edema or difficulty breathing.
    • Adrenaline (epinephrine): First aid drug for anaphylaxia. It is administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously and helps to quickly stop the symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, a sharp decrease in blood pressure and loss of consciousness. People with anaphylactic reactions are recommended to always have an autoenjector with adrenaline.
    • Bronchodilators: They are used to expand the bronchi and relieve breathing in bronchospasm. They are used in the form of inhalations.
    • Enterosorbents: They are used to remove toxins and allergens from the gastrointestinal tract for intolerance and light allergic reactions (for example, activated carbon, smecta, enterosgel).
    • Anti -rate drugs: Used to eliminate nausea and vomiting.
    • Antidian preparations: Used to treat diarrhea.
    • Laxatives: Used to treat constipation.

  • Immunotherapy with allergens (ASIT): The method of treating allergies in which the patient is administered small doses of allergen gradually increasing them in order to reduce the body’s sensitivity to this allergen. AIT can be effective for treating allergies to plant pollen, insect bites, but its use for allergies to dietary supplements is limited.

  • Diet therapy: The exclusion from the diet of products containing allergens or substances that cause intolerance. It is important to read the labels of products and dietary supplements to avoid the use of allergens.

  • Recovery of intestinal microflora: Reception of probiotics and prebiotics can help restore the normal intestinal microflora and improve the tolerance of dietary supplements.

  • Consultation of an allergist-immunologist: It is necessary to diagnose allergies, determine allergens, develop a treatment plan and prevention of allergic reactions.

  • Patient training: Patients with allergies to dietary supplements should be trained to recognize the symptoms of allergic reactions, be able to use the autoenjector with adrenaline (with anaphylaxia) and know how to act in emergency situations.

VII. Prevention of individual intolerance and allergic reactions to dietary supplements

The prevention of individual intolerance and allergic reactions to dietary supplements includes a number of measures aimed at reducing the risk of developing unwanted reactions.

  • The choice of dietary supplements:

    • Consultation with a doctor: Before taking dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have an allergy, chronic diseases or you take other drugs.
    • The choice of dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers: Give preference to dietary supplements from well -known and trusted manufacturers who have a good reputation and comply with quality standards.
    • Careful reading of labels: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement, pay attention to the presence of potential allergens, artificial dyes, preservatives and other substances that can cause intolerance.
    • The choice of dietary supplements with a simple composition: The simpler the composition of the dietary supplement, the lower the risk of undesirable reactions.
    • Avoid dietary supplements with unknown components: Do not accept dietary supplements whose composition is incomprehensible or doubts.
    • Certification check: Make sure that the dietary supplement is certified by the relevant quality control authorities.
    • Caution with dietary supplements advertised as “miraculous means”: Badam, promising a quick cure for serious diseases, should be treated with particular caution.
    • Pay attention to the release form: Chewing tablets, capsules with dyes and flavors can more often cause allergic reactions.

  • Reception of dietary supplements:

    • Start with small doses: Start taking a dose with a small dose and gradually increase it to evaluate tolerance.
    • Take dietary supplements after eating: Reception of dietary supplements after eating can reduce the risk of irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.
    • Follow the recommended dosage: Do not exceed the recommended dosage of dietary supplements.
    • Write down all the ongoing dietary supplements and medicines: Take a list of all bates and medicines taken to track possible interactions.
    • Be attentive to the symptoms: Carefully monitor your well-being during a dietary supplement and immediately stop taking it if any undesirable symptoms appear.
    • Consult a doctor if the symptoms appear: If you have any symptoms of intolerance or allergies after taking dietary supplement, consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
    • Inform the doctor about the admission of dietary supplements: When visiting a doctor, be sure to inform him of all the dietary supplements that you accept.
    • Caution with dietary supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding: Reception of dietary supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires special caution and consultation with a doctor.
    • Do not give dietary supplements to children without consulting a doctor: Reception of dietary supplements by children should be strictly agreed with the pediatrician.

  • Other measures:

    • Avoid self -medication: Do not self -medicate and do not take dietary supplements without a doctor’s prescription.
    • Strengthen the immune system: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat correctly, do physical exercises and avoid stress to strengthen immunity.
    • Treat chronic diseases: Timely treat chronic diseases that can increase the risk of undesirable reactions to dietary supplements.
    • Avoid contact with allergens: If you have allergies to certain substances, try to avoid contact with them, including in the composition of dietary supplements.
    • Check the shelf life of dietary supplements: Do not take dietary supplements with an expired shelf life.
    • Correctly store dietary supplements: Keep dietary supplements in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, in a cool, dry and inaccessible place for children.
    • Conduct medical examinations regularly: Regular medical examinations will help identify diseases in the early stages and prevent the development of undesirable reactions to dietary supplements.

VIII. Legal aspects and regulation of dietary supplements

The legal regulation of dietary supplements is significantly different in different countries, which affects the quality, safety and accessibility of information about products. In some countries, dietary supplements are regulated as food products, in others – as drugs, which is reflected in the requirements for registration, production, quality control and marking.

  • Russian legislation:

    • In Russia, dietary supplements are regulated by the Federal Law “On the quality and safety of food products” and sanitary rules and norms (SanPiN).
    • Bades are subject to state registration in Rospotrebnadzor.
    • Requirements for the production, storage, transportation and sale of dietary supplements are regulated by sanitary rules.
    • Information about dietary supplements should be reliable, complete and accessible to consumers.
    • Advertising of dietary supplements should not mislead consumers regarding the properties and characteristics of products.

  • European legislation:

    • In the European Union, the Bada is regulated by the Directive of 2002/46/EC.
    • The directive establishes the requirements for vitamins and minerals used in dietary supplements and their maximum levels.
    • Each EU member state has the right to establish its own rules regarding other components of dietary supplements.
    • The European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) assesses the safety and efficiency of dietary supplements.

  • American legislation:

    • In the United States, dietary supplements are regulated by the Law on Food Addles, Health and Education (DSHEA) from 1994.
    • DShea defines dietary supplements as food products, not medicines.
    • Dad manufacturers are not required to receive the approval of FDA (Food and Drug Administration) before the production of products on the market.
    • FDA can take measures against dietary supplements if they pose a threat to consumer health.
    • Bad manufacturers are responsible for the safety and reliability of information about their products.

  • Problems of D FAC regulation:

    • Insufficient quality control of dietary supplements.
    • Inaccurate information about the composition and properties of dietary supplements.
    • The illegal distribution of dietary supplements containing prohibited substances.
    • Advertising of dietary supplements, misleading consumers.
    • The absence of unified standards for regulation of dietary supplements in different countries.

IX. Interaction of dietary supplements with drugs

Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It is important to know about possible interactions in order to avoid negative consequences.

  • Interaction mechanisms:

    • Pharmacokinetic interactions: Influence the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of drugs. For example, dietary supplements containing fiber can reduce the absorption of drugs from the gastrointestinal tract. Bades affecting the activity of liver enzymes (for example, St. John’s wort) can change the metabolism of drugs.
    • Pharmacodynamic interactions: Affect the effect of drugs. For example, dietary supplements with anticoagulant effects (for example, ginkgo biloba, garlic) can enhance the effect of anticoagulants (for example, warfarin) and increase the risk of bleeding.

  • Examples of interactions:

    • St. John’s wort: It can reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants, contraceptives, antiretroviral drugs, anticoagulants.
    • Ginkgo biloba: The risk of bleeding can increase while taking anticoagulants and anti -signs.
    • Garlic: It can enhance the effect of anticoagulants and reduce the effectiveness of antiviral drugs.
    • Grapefruit juice: The metabolism of many drugs can change, including statins, antihistamines, immunosuppressants.
    • Vitamin K: It can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants (warfarin).
    • Calcium: It can reduce the absorption of antibiotics (tetracyclines, fluoroquinolons).
    • Iron: It can reduce the absorption of levotyroxine (thyroid hormone).

  • Recommendations:

    • Be sure to inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements and medicines.
    • Follow the interval between the administration of dietary supplements and medicines.
    • Avoid the simultaneous administration of dietary supplements and drugs that can interact with each other.
    • Carefully study the instructions for dietary supplements and medicines to learn about possible interactions.
    • Consult with the pharmacist about the possible interactions of dietary supplements and drugs.

X. Conclusion: the role of a responsible approach to receiving dietary supplements

The safety and efficiency of dietary supplements depend on many factors, including the composition of the product, the quality of the ingredients, individual characteristics of the body and compliance with recommendations for use. A responsible approach to the reception of dietary supplements, including consultation with a doctor, careful study of labels, the choice of products from reliable manufacturers and compliance with recommended dosages, will help reduce the risk of undesirable reactions and get maximum benefit for health. It is important to remember that dietary supplements are not a replacement for good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *