Quality control of dietary supplements: how not to run into a fake?

Quality control of dietary supplements: how not to run into a fake?

Dietary supplements (biologically active additives) have firmly entered the life of many people striving to maintain health, replenishing deficits and improving well -being. However, the dietary supplement market, unfortunately, is not safe from fakes and low -quality products. The use of such falsifications can not only not benefit, but also cause serious harm to health. To avoid unpleasant consequences, it is necessary to understand how the quality control system works for dietary supplements and how to independently check the products before buying.

I. Legislative regulation of dietary supplements: Russian Federation

In Russia, the regulation of the turnover of dietary supplements is carried out on the basis of a number of regulatory documents that determine the requirements for their production, registration, labeling and quality control. Key laws and decisions include:

• Federal Law No. 29-FZ dated 02.01.2000 “On the quality and safety of food products”: This basic law determines the general requirements for the safety of food products, which include dietary supplements. It establishes the responsibility of manufacturers and sellers for the quality and safety of products.
• Technical Regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 021/2011 “On food safety”: This regulation is the main document that establishes mandatory requirements for the safety of all food products, including dietary supplements, in the territory of the Customs Union (Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan). It determines the permissible levels of the content of toxic elements, microbiological indicators and other safety parameters.
• Technical Regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 022/2011 “Food products in terms of its marking”: This regulation regulates the requirements for labeling of food products, including dietary supplements. It sets information that must be indicated on the package, such as the name of the product, composition, shelf life, storage conditions, manufacturer information and other important information.
• SanPiN 2.3.2.1290-03 “Hygienic requirements for the organization of production and turnover of biologically active additives to food (BAD)”: This document establishes sanitary rules and norms for the production and turnover of dietary supplements. It determines the requirements for premises, equipment, raw materials, technological processes and personnel. SanPiN regulates quality control at all stages of production and the turnover of dietary supplements.
• Order of the Ministry of Health of Russia No. 117 of 04/15/2003 “On the procedure for conducting an examination of biologically active additives to food”: This order establishes the procedure for conducting an examination of dietary supplements before their state registration. The examination is carried out by accredited organizations and includes assessment of the security, efficiency and compliance of products with the requirements of the law.

State registration of dietary supplements:

Before the dietary supplement appears on the shelves, he must go through the state registration procedure in Rospotrebnadzor. This is a prerequisite for legal production and the turnover of dietary supplements in the territory of the Russian Federation. In the process of registration, the following aspects are evaluated:

• Compliance with security requirements: The analysis of the Bad composition is carried out for compliance with safety requirements established by technical regulations and sanitary standards. The content of toxic elements, microbiological indicators and other safety parameters is evaluated.
• Confirmation of the declared properties: The manufacturer must provide a scientific justification for the declared properties of Bad. These can be the results of clinical research, scientific publications and other evidence of effectiveness.
• The correctness of the marking: The compliance of the marking with the requirements of technical regulations and sanitary standards is checked. The completeness and reliability of the information indicated on the packaging are evaluated.

After the successful passage of state registration of dietary supplements is submitted to the state register, and it is assigned a certificate of state registration (SGR). The presence of SGR is a guarantee that the dietary supplement has passed the necessary checks and meets the safety requirements. Information about registered dietary supplements can be found on the Rospotrebnadzor website.

Responsibility for violation of legislation:

For the production and turnover of poor -quality or falsified dietary supplements, administrative and criminal liability is provided. Violators can be involved in fines, confiscation of products, suspension of activity, and even imprisonment.

II. Quality control of dietary supplements at the stages of production and implementation

Quality control of dietary supplements is carried out at all stages of their life cycle, from production to implementation. This is a multi -level system, including both internal control by the manufacturer and external control by state bodies.

• Internal control (production control):

The manufacturer is obliged to exercise production control at all stages of dietary supplements. This includes:

• Quality control of raw materials: Checking raw materials for compliance with safety and quality requirements. Assessment of the content of active substances, the absence of impurities and pollution.
• Technological process control: Compliance with technological modes and production parameters. Monitoring compliance with sanitary norms and rules.
• Quality control of finished products: Checking finished products for compliance with safety and quality requirements. Assessment of appearance, smell, color, consistency, content of active substances and other indicators.
• Documentation maintenance: Conducting documentation confirming the compliance of products with safety and quality requirements.

The manufacturer must have on the staff of specialists responsible for quality control, and have the necessary equipment and laboratory for analyzes. The results of quality control should be documented and stored within a deadline.

• External control (state control):

State control over the quality of dietary supplements is carried out by Rospotrebnadzor and other authorized bodies. He includes:

• Planned checks: They are carried out in accordance with the inspection plan approved by Rospotrebnadzor. During the scheduled inspections, the compliance by manufacturers and sellers of the requirements of the law in the field of production and turnover of dietary supplements is evaluated.
• Unscheduled checks: They are carried out on the basis of consumer complaints, information about violations or in connection with the need to conduct investigations.
• Sampling and conducting research: As part of the checks, samples of dietary supplements for laboratory tests are selected. Studies are conducted by accredited laboratories and include an assessment of product compliance with safety and quality requirements.
• Acceptance of response measures: In the case of violations of the Rospotrebnadzor and other authorized bodies, it is entitled to take response measures, such as issuing orders to eliminate violations, suspension of production and turnover of products, removal of products from circulation and holding violators accountable.

Система HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points):

Many dietary supplement manufacturers introduce the HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) system to ensure the safety and quality of products. HACCP is a system that allows you to identify, evaluate and control dangerous factors that may occur at different stages of production. The introduction of the HACCP system allows manufacturers to guarantee the safety and quality of products at all stages of production and reduce the risk of problems.

III. How to check the quality of dietary supplement before buying before buying

Although state bodies and manufacturers carry out the quality control of dietary supplements, consumers should also show vigilance and check the products before buying. This will help to avoid the purchase of fakes and low -quality goods.

• Checking information on the packaging:

Carefully study the information on the pack of dietary supplements. It should contain the following information:

• Name Product: It must be clearly indicated that this is dietary supplement.
• Composition: The list of all the ingredients included in the dietary supplement, indicating their number.
• Information about the manufacturer: The name and address of the manufacturer, as well as its contact details.
• Production date and expiration date: The date of manufacture and expiration date must be clearly indicated and should not be expired.
• Storage conditions: Storage conditions must be indicated, which must be observed to maintain the quality of the product.
• Recommendations for use: Recommendations for use, dosage and duration of admission should be indicated.
• Contraindications: Contraindications to the use of dietary supplements must be indicated.
• Certificate of state registration (SGR): The number of the certificate of state registration must be indicated. This number can be checked on the Rospotrebnadzor website.
• Correspondence sign (if any): The presence of a sign of conformity indicates that the dietary supplement has passed voluntary certification.

Pay attention to the integrity of the package. It should not be damaged or opened. Make sure that the information on the packaging is printed clearly and legibly. Avoid the purchase of dietary supplements with incomplete or inaccurate information on the package.

• Checking the certificate of state registration (SGR):

The number of the certificate of state registration (SGR) should be indicated on the package of Bad. Check this number on the Rospotrebnadzor website in the section “Register of certificates of state registration”. If the SCR number is not found in the register or the product information does not correspond to the packaging, this may be a sign of fake.

• Assessment of appearance and organoleptic properties:

When buying dietary supplements, pay attention to its appearance, smell and color. It must correspond to the description on the package. Avoid buying dietary supplements with a suspicious appearance, smell or color.

• Buying in proven places:

Buy dietary supplements only in proven places, such as pharmacies, specialized healthy meals and official online stores of manufacturers. Avoid buying dietary supplements in the markets, in unauthorized places of trade and through dubious Internet sites.

• Price:

Too low price for dietary supplements compared to the average market price may be a sign of fake. Be careful with offers that seem too profitable.

• Reviews:

Read reviews about the dietary supplement and manufacturer on the Internet. Reviews of other consumers can help you make an idea of the quality of products.

• Consultation with a doctor:

Before taking any dietary supplement, it is recommended to consult a doctor. The doctor can evaluate your health status and give recommendations for the choice of a suitable dietary supplement.

IV. Common types of fakes of dietary supplements and how to recognize them

The dietary supplement market, unfortunately, is at risk of fakes. Attackers can fake well -known brands or produce poor -quality products using cheap raw materials or adding harmful substances. It is important to know what types of fakes are most often found, and how to recognize them.

• Replacing ingredients:

One of the most common types of fakes is to replace the declared ingredients with cheaper analogues or fillers. For example, instead of expensive extract, plants can use its synthetic analogue or just starch.

• Infusal of active substances:

Fake dietary supplements may contain an insufficient number of declared active substances. This makes the product ineffective, although not necessarily harmful.

• Adding prohibited substances:

Sometimes prohibited substances are added to fake dietary supplements, such as potent drugs or toxic chemical compounds. This can cause serious harm to health. For example, sibuturine can add to dietary supplements for weight loss, and sildenafil can be added to dietary supplements.

• Microbiological pollution:

Poor production can lead to microbiological contamination of dietary supplements. The product may contain bacteria, fungi or other microorganisms that can cause infectious diseases.

• Fakeing packaging and documents:

Attackers can fake packaging and documents to give a fake dietary supplement for the original. They can use low-quality materials, fake barcodes and SGR numbers.

How to recognize a fake:

• Carefully study the packaging: Pay attention to the quality of the print, the presence of errors in the text, the integrity of the package. Compare the packaging with the original, if possible.
• Check the number of the SGR on the Rospotrebnadzor website: Make sure that the number of the SGR corresponds to the stated on the package and that the information about the product in the register coincides with the information on the packaging.
• Pay attention to the price: Too low price can be a sign of fake.
• Buy in proven places: Avoid buying dietary supplements in doubtful places.
• Pay attention to the appearance of the product: If the product looks or smells unusual, it can be a sign of fake.
• Consult a doctor: If you have doubts about the quality of dietary supplements, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

V. Voluntary dietary supplement certification

In addition to mandatory state registration, some dietary supplements undergo voluntary certification of their products. Voluntary certification is a procedure during which an independent organization evaluates the compliance of products with certain standards and requirements.

Advantages of voluntary certification:

• Increased consumer confidence: The presence of a certificate of conformity indicates that the dietary supplement has passed an additional check and meets certain quality and safety standards. This increases consumer trust in the product and manufacturer.
• Competitive advantage: Voluntary certification can give the manufacturer a competitive advantage in the market. Consumers more often choose products that have undergone an additional check and have a certificate of conformity.
• Confirmation of the declared properties: In the process of voluntary certification, an assessment of the effectiveness and safety of Bad can be assessed. This allows you to confirm the declared properties of the product and increase consumer trust.
• Entering new markets: The presence of a certificate of conformity may be a prerequisite for entering new markets, where higher requirements for the quality and safety of products are presented.

Certification bodies:

The voluntary certification of dietary supplements is carried out by accredited certification bodies. These bodies should be independent and have qualified personnel and the necessary equipment for testing and evaluating products.

Certification standards:

Voluntary certification of dietary supplements can be carried out for compliance with various standards, such as:

• GOST R (national standards of the Russian Federation): Standards developed and approved by the Federal Agency for Technical Regulation and Metrology (Rosstandart).
• ISO (international standards): Standards developed by the International Standardization Organization (ISO).
• Standards of individual industries: Standards developed by industry associations and organizations.

Correspondence sign:

After successfully passing the voluntary certification, the manufacturer receives a certificate of conformity and the right to mark his products with a conformity sign. The conformity sign informs consumers that the dietary supplement has passed voluntary certification and meets certain standards.

VI. What to do if you purchased a fake dietary supplement

If you suspect that you have purchased a fake dietary supplement, you need to take the following actions:

• Discontinue Bada Reception: Stop taking dietary supplements immediately and consult a doctor if you have any side effects or a deterioration in well-being.
• Save packaging and check: Save the package of dietary supplements, checks and any other documents confirming the purchase.
• Contact the seller: Contact the seller with a request to return funds or replacement of goods.
• Contact Rospotrebnadzor: Direct the complaint to Rospotrebnadzor indicating the information about the acquired fake Bad. At the complaint, attach copies of packaging, check and other documents.
• Contact law enforcement agencies: If you think that the acquisition of a fake Bad has harmed your health, contact law enforcement agencies with a statement of crime.

VII. The impact of storage on the quality of dietary supplements

Proper storage of dietary supplements is of great importance for maintaining their quality and safety. Failure to comply with storage conditions can lead to a deterioration in properties, a decrease in efficiency and even the formation of harmful substances.

• Temperature:

Most dietary supplements are recommended to be stored at room temperature (usually from 15 ° C to 25 ° C). Avoid storage in places with high temperature, such as window sills, located under direct sunlight, or near heating devices. High temperature can accelerate decomposition processes and reduce the effectiveness of active substances. Some dietary supplements require storage in the refrigerator; This information is always indicated on the packaging.

• Humidity:

High humidity can lead to damage to dietary supplements, especially in the form of powders or capsules. Moisture can contribute to the development of mold, bacteria and other microorganisms. Keep dietary supplements in a dry place in tightly closed packaging. It is not recommended to store dietary supplements in the bathroom due to high humidity.

• World:

The impact of direct sunlight can destroy some active substances in dietary supplements. Keep dietary supplements in a dark place, in opaque packaging or in a closet.

• Best before date:

Always pay attention to the shelf life of the dietary supplement. Do not use dietary supplements after expiration of the expiration date, since their effectiveness can be reduced, and safety is not guaranteed.

• Package:

Keep dietary supplements in the original packaging, as it usually provides protection against light, moisture and other environmental factors. If the packaging is damaged, transfer dietary supplement to another sealed container.

• Safety:

Keep dietary supplements inaccessible to children and pets.

Tips for storing various forms of dietary supplements:

• Capsules and tablets: Keep in a dry, cool and dark place.
• Powders: Store in airtight package to prevent moisture absorption.
• Liquids: Store in a cool and dark place. Some liquids require storage in the refrigerator after opening.
• Herbs and fees: Store in a dry, dark and cool place, in a sealed container or bag.

VIII. Myths and misconceptions about dietary supplements

Around the dietary supplements, there are many myths and errors that can mislead consumers and lead to improper use of these products. It is important to know the truth about dietary supplements in order to make conscious decisions about their application.

• Myth 1: Bades are medicines.

Is it true: Bades are not medicines. They belong to the category of food and are designed to supplement the diet. They do not treat diseases, but help to make up for the deficiency of nutrients and maintain health.

• Myth 2: Bades are absolutely safe, as they are natural.

Is it true: Naturalness does not guarantee security. Some plant components can cause allergic reactions or interact with drugs. It is important to carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and consult a doctor before use. In addition, as has already been discussed, even a natural product can be poor -quality or fake.

• Myth 3: The larger the dose of dietary supplements, the better the effect.

Is it true: Exceeding the recommended dose of dietary supplements can lead to undesirable side effects. It is important to follow the recommendations for use and not exceed the specified dosage.

• Myth 4: Bad can be taken without consulting a doctor.

Is it true: Before taking any dietary supplement, it is recommended to consult a doctor, especially if you have chronic diseases or you take medications. The doctor can evaluate your health status and give recommendations on the choice of a suitable dietary supplement, as well as exclude possible contraindications and interactions with other drugs.

• Myth 5: Bades are a panacea from all diseases.

Is it true: Bades are not a panacea. They cannot cure all diseases. They can be useful for maintaining health and prevention of diseases, but do not replace full treatment.

• Myth 6: All dietary supplements are equally effective.

Is it true: The effectiveness of dietary supplements depends on its composition, the quality of raw materials, production technology and individual characteristics of the body. It is important to choose dietary supplements from trusted manufacturers and with proven effectiveness.

• Myth 7: Bades have no side effects.

Is it true: Like any other products, dietary supplements can cause side effects, especially with improper use or individual intolerance. It is important to carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and consult a doctor before use.

• Myth 8: Bades are a divorce for money.

Is it true: Not all dietary supplements are a divorce for money. Some dietary supplements can really be healthy, especially with the right choice and use. However, it is important to be critical of advertising promises and choose dietary supplements from trusted manufacturers with proven effectiveness.

IX. Future control of the quality of dietary supplements

The quality control system of dietary supplements is constantly developing and improving. In the future, the following changes and trends can be expected:

• Tighten the legislation: In connection with the growth of the popularity of dietary supplements and an increase in the number of fakes, we can expect tightening legislation in the field of production and turnover of dietary supplements. This may include the introduction of more stringent requirements for registration, labeling and product quality control.
• The development of quality control technologies: The development of modern technologies allows you to conduct a more accurate and quick analysis of the composition of dietary supplements. This may include the use of mass spectrometry, chromatography and other modern analysis methods.
• Implementation of digital technologies: The introduction of digital technologies, such as blockchain, can help monitor the origin of Bad and control its quality at all stages of production and turnover.
• Strengthening control over Internet trade: In connection with the growth of Internet trading in dietary supplements, we can expect increased control over the quality of products sold via the Internet. This may include checking online stores, monitoring the sales of fakes and blocking dubious sites.
• Increasing consumer awareness: Increasing consumer awareness of the rules for choosing and using dietary supplements, as well as the risks of acquiring fakes, can help reduce the number of cases of acquisition of poor -quality products.
• Harmonization of legislation: Harmonization of legislation in the field of quality control of dietary supplements between different countries can simplify international trade and increase the level of product safety.
• Development of the pharmacon supervision system: The development of the pharmacon supervision system behind dietary supplements, that is, a system for collecting and analyzing information about side effects and undesirable reactions, can help identify problematic products and take measures to withdraw from turnover.

X. Final recommendations

In conclusion, it should be noted that the choice and use of dietary supplements is a responsible process that requires an attentive attitude and a conscious approach. Follow the following recommendations to reduce the risk of acquiring fakes and get the maximum benefit from dietary supplements:

• Consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplement.
• Buy dietary supplements only in proven places.
• Carefully study the information on the package.
• Check the number of the SGR on the Rospotrebnadzor website.
• Pay attention to the appearance and organoleptic properties of the product.
• Do not chase at a low price.
• Store dietary supplements in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer.
• Report on cases of acquisition of fake dietary supplements in Rospotrebnadzor.
• Be critical of advertising promises and choose dietary supplements from trusted manufacturers with proven effectiveness.
• Remember that dietary supplements are not medicines and do not replace full treatment.

Compliance with these simple rules will help you protect your health and avoid unpleasant consequences associated with the acquisition of low -quality dietary supplements. Your health is in your hands!

XI. Examples of trusted dietary supplements (not advertising, only for information)

When choosing dietary supplements, focus on manufacturers who have a good reputation and proven themselves in the market. Below are examples of manufacturers, which, according to experts and consumers, offer quality products (this is not advertising, but only an information list for reference):

• Solgar (Year’s): The American company, known for its high -quality vitamins and minerals. Uses only natural ingredients and has strict quality control.
• Now Foods (Nao Fuds): The American company offering a wide range of dietary supplements, vitamins, minerals and sports nutrition. It is known for its ratio of price and quality.
• Doctor’s Best (Doktors Best): The American company specializing in the production of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Uses a scientific approach to product development.
• Life Extension (Life Extensher): The American company offering a wide range of dietary supplements to maintain health and prolong life. Uses advanced technologies and scientific developments.
• Evalar (evals): The Russian company that produces a wide range of dietary supplements based on plant materials. Known for its affordable prices and widespread.
• Artlife (Artlife): The Russian company offering a wide range of dietary supplements, cosmetics and functional nutrition. Uses modern technologies and scientific developments.
• Vision (Vision): An international company offering a wide range of dietary supplements based on plant materials and minerals. Uses network marketing to spread products.
• Nature’s Bounty. An American company offering a wide range of vitamins and dietary supplements.
• 21st Century (21st century): An American company that produces available vitamins and supplements.

Important! This list is not exhaustive. Before buying a dietary supplement from any manufacturer, always conduct your own research, read reviews, check the certificates and consult your doctor.

XII. The role of laboratory research in the quality control of dietary supplements

Laboratory research play a key role in the quality control system of dietary supplements, providing objective data on the composition, safety and efficiency of products. They are necessary to confirm compliance with the requirements of the law and to protect consumers from poor -quality and falsified goods.

The main types of laboratory research of dietary supplements:

• Identification of the composition: Determination of the qualitative and quantitative composition of the dietary supplement. This includes an analysis for the presence of declared ingredients, as well as for the presence of impurities, pollutants and prohibited substances. Methods of chromatography, mass spectrometry and other modern analytical methods are used.
• Determination of the content of active substances: Determination of the concentration of biologically active substances that are responsible for the declared properties of dietary supplements. This is important to confirm the effectiveness of the product and to monitor compliance with the declared composition.
• Microbiological studies: Determination of the presence and number of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi and mold. This is necessary to assess the safety of Bad and to prevent the risk of infectious diseases.
• Toxicological studies: Determination of the presence and concentration of toxic elements such as heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic), pesticides, dioxins and other pollutants. This is necessary to assess the safety of Bad and to prevent the risk of poisoning and other negative health consequences.
• Studies for stability: Assessment of Bad stability during the expiration date. This includes the determination of changes in the composition, content of active substances and other quality indicators under various storage conditions.
• Determination of physico-chemical indicators: Determination of the physicochemical properties of dietary supplements, such as humidity, solubility, pH and other parameters that can affect the quality and efficiency of the product.

Laboratory research methods of dietary supplements:

To conduct laboratory tests of dietary supplements, various analysis methods are used, including:

• Chromatography (gas, liquid): Separation and identification of the components of the mixture.
• Mass spectrometry: Determination of the molecular mass of substances and their identification.
• Spectrophotometry (UV, visible, ik): Determination of the concentration of substances by their ability to absorb light.
• Atomic-absorption spectrometry: Determination of the content of heavy metals.
• Microscopy: The study of the structure and composition of the dietary supplement under a microscope.
• Microbiological methods (sowing, cultivation, identification): Determination of the presence and number of microorganisms.

Laboratory accreditation:

Laboratory conducting dietary supplements should be accredited in the prescribed manner. Accreditation confirms the competence of the laboratory and its compliance with the requirements of quality standards.

The value of laboratory research for consumers:

The results of laboratory tests of dietary supplements allow consumers to get objective information about the composition, safety and efficiency of products. This helps them make a conscious choice and protect their health.

XIII. Interaction of dietary supplements with drugs

One of the important aspects that must be taken into account when taking dietary supplements is their possible interaction with drugs. Some dietary supplements can enhance or weaken the effect of drugs, as well as cause undesirable side effects.

Mechanisms for the interaction of dietary supplements and drugs:

The interaction of dietary supplements and drugs can occur at various levels:

• Pharmacokinetic interaction: The effect of dietary supplement on absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of the drug from the body.
  • For example, some dietary supplements can slow down or accelerate the absorption of the medicine in the intestines, which can lead to a change in its concentration in the blood.
  • Other dietary supplements can affect the activity of enzymes involved in the metabolism of drugs, which can lead to an increase or decrease in their concentration in the body.
• Pharmacodynamic interaction: The effect of dietary supplement on the effect of the drug on the body.
  • For example, some dietary supplements can enhance or weaken the effect of the medicine, acting on the same receptors or body systems.
  • Other dietary supplements can cause side effects that intensify with simultaneous drugs.

Examples of the interaction of dietary supplements and drugs:

• St. John’s wort is perforated: It can reduce the effectiveness of many drugs, including antidepressants, anticoagulants, contraceptives and immunosuppressants.
• Garlic: It can strengthen the effect of anticoagulants such as warfarin, which can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Ginseng: It can increase blood pressure and reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs.
• Ginkgo biloba: It can strengthen the effect of anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents, which can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Grapefruit juice: It can affect the metabolism of many drugs, increasing or decreasing their concentration in the blood.

Recommendations for the use of dietary supplements and drugs:

• Tell your doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept: This will allow the doctor to evaluate the risk of possible interactions with drugs and take the necessary measures.
• Do not take dietary supplements simultaneously with medicines without consulting a doctor: The doctor can evaluate the safety of the simultaneous administration of dietary supplements and the medicine and give recommendations for the dosage and time of administration.
• Carefully study the instructions for dietary supplements and drugs: Pay attention to warnings about possible interactions with other substances.
• Follow your well -being with the simultaneous administration of dietary supplements and drugs: If you notice any unusual symptoms or a deterioration in well-being, see a doctor immediately.

XIV. The role of the media and advertising in the formation of opinions about dietary supplements