Bad for children: benefits and security

Bad for children: benefits and security

Section 1: What is dietary supplements and how do they differ from drugs?

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) 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 ration with individual food or biologically active substances and their complexes. They are not drugs, and this is a key difference that determines their regulation, production, promotion and use.

• Definition and composition of dietary supplements: Bades can contain vitamins, minerals, amino acids, dietary fiber, probiotics and prebiotics, polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3, omega-6), plant extracts and other ingredients. The purpose of the dietary supplement is to fill the deficiency of the necessary substances in the body, to maintain the normal functioning of organs and systems, to increase resistance to adverse environmental factors and improve the general health of health. It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not intended for the treatment of diseases.

• Differences in regulation: dietary supplements against drugs: Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not go through strict clinical trials necessary to confirm their effectiveness and safety in the treatment of specific diseases. Bades regulation are usually less rigid than the regulation of drugs. In most countries, including Russia, dietary supplements are subject to state registration, but this procedure is mainly aimed at checking compliance with sanitary standards and food safety requirements. Therapeutic effectiveness is not tested, as is done for drugs.

• Marking and information on the packaging of dietary supplements: Bades packaging should contain complete information about the composition, method of use, dosage, contraindications and possible side effects. It is necessarily indicated that dietary supplements are not a drug. It is important to carefully study this information before the use of dietary supplements, especially for children. Attention should be paid to the availability of quality and conformity certificates (for example, a certificate of conformity to the technical regulations of the Customs Union).

• Consumer perception and marketing of dietary supplements: Often, dietary supplements are positioned as “natural” and “safe”, which can mislead consumers. An aggressive marketing campaign, often using positive reviews (sometimes with dubious reliability) and attractive promises, can create a mistaken idea of the miraculous properties of dietary supplements in parents. It is important to remember that the natural origin of the product does not guarantee its safety and efficiency, and marketing statements should be taken critically.

Section 2: Do children need dietary supplements? Possible indications for use.

The question of the need to use dietary supplements in children is complex and requires an individual approach. In most cases, a healthy child who receives a full and balanced diet is not needed. However, in some situations, their use can be justified and even recommended by a doctor.

• Filling up the deficiency of vitamins and minerals: The most common reason for the appointment of dietary supplements for children is a deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals. For example, vitamin D deficiency is often found in children, especially in the winter season, and its replenishment can be recommended by a doctor. Iron deficiency can be observed in children with an unbalanced diet or in adolescents during active growth. In such cases, dietary supplements containing appropriate vitamins and minerals can help to make up for a lack.

• Support for the immune system: During periods of increased morbidity (for example, in a cold season) or after the diseases, dietary supplements containing vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, probiotics and other immunomodulating substances can be recommended to support the child’s immune system. However, it is important to remember that dietary supplements are not a replacement for good nutrition, a healthy lifestyle and preventive measures (for example, vaccination).

• Improving digestion: Bades containing probiotics and prebiotics can be useful for children with digestive disorders, such as dysbiosis, constipation or diarrhea. Probiotics are living microorganisms that have a positive effect on the intestinal microflora. Prebiotics are substances that stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. However, before the use of probiotics and prebiotics in children, it is necessary to consult a doctor, especially if the child has serious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

• Support for the nervous system and cognitive functions: Dietary supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, magnesium and other substances can be useful for supporting the nervous system and cognitive functions of the child, especially during the period of intensive mental load (for example, at school). Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the development of the brain and nervous system. B vitamins are involved in the metabolism and maintaining the normal operation of the nervous system. Magnesium is necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and muscles.

• Special diets and conditions: In some cases, for example, subject to a child of a vegetarian or vegan diet, or if he has certain diseases (for example, celiac disease or phenylketonuria), the use of dietary supplements may be necessary to make up for the missing nutrients. In such situations, it is necessary to consult a doctor or nutritionist to develop an individual diet and dietary supplement.

Section 3: risks and side effects of dietary supplements in children.

Despite the fact that dietary supplements are not medicines, they carry certain risks, especially with improper use or poor -quality composition. Before giving dietary supplements to the child, you need to carefully weigh everything “for” and “against” and be sure to consult a doctor.

• Allergic reactions: Bades may contain various allergens, such as plant extracts, dyes, flavors and preservatives. In children with allergies or increased sensitivity to certain substances, the use of dietary supplements can cause allergic reactions, such as skin rash, itching, urticaria, quinca edema or even anaphylactic shock. Therefore, before the use of dietary supplements, it is necessary to carefully study its composition and make sure that there are no well -known allergens in it.

• Overdose: Even vitamins and minerals, which are considered healthy, can be dangerous for an overdose. For example, an overdose of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood), which can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, constipation and other symptoms. An overdose of iron can lead to poisoning, especially in young children. Therefore, it is necessary to strictly observe the recommended dosage of dietary supplements and not exceed it.

• Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or increasing side effects. For example, some dietary supplements can affect blood coagulation and interact with anticoagulants. Other dietary supplements can affect the metabolism of drugs in the liver, changing their concentration in the blood. Therefore, before using dietary supplements, it is necessary to inform the doctor about all the drugs that the child takes.

• Poor composition and falsification: The market of dietary supplements, unfortunately, is not always distinguished by high quality products. The dietary supplement may contain impurities, toxic substances that are not declared ingredients or the inconsistency of the declared composition of the actual one. Falsified dietary supplements can be not only ineffective, but also dangerous to health. Therefore, it is necessary to buy dietary supplements only from trusted manufacturers and in reliable pharmacies.

• Lack of proven effectiveness: Many dietary supplements advertised for children do not have a sufficient evidence base about their effectiveness and safety. Marketing statements can be exaggerated or based on inaccurate research. The use of such dietary supplements can be not only useless, but also distract from more effective methods of treatment or prevention.

Section 4: What dietary supplements can be given to children and in what dosages? Choice recommendations.

The choice of dietary supplement for a child is a responsible step that must be taken only after consulting a doctor. The doctor will be able to assess the state of health of the child, identify possible deficits of nutrients and choose the right dietary supplement in the correct dosage.

• Vitamin D: Vitamin D is necessary for the normal growth and development of bones and teeth, as well as to maintain the immune system. Vitamin D deficiency is often found in children, especially in the winter season. The dosage of vitamin D for children depends on the age, the presence of deficiency and other factors and should be determined by the doctor. Usually recommend a preventive dose of vitamin D for children of the first year of life, as well as for older children in the winter months.

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the development of the brain and nervous system, as well as to maintain health of the cardiovascular system. Omega-3 fatty acids are contained in fatty fish (for example, salmon, mackerel, herring) and in some vegetable oils (for example, linseed oil). Bades containing omega-3 fatty acids can be recommended to children who do not consume enough fish.

• Probiotics: Probiotics are living microorganisms that have a positive effect on the intestinal microflora. Probiotics can be useful for children with digestive disorders, such as dysbiosis, constipation or diarrhea. However, before using probiotics in children, it is necessary to consult a doctor, especially if the child has serious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

• Iron: Iron is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, which tolerates oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which is manifested by fatigue, weakness, pallor of the skin and other symptoms. Dietary supplements containing iron can be recommended for children with iron deficiency, especially during active growth.

• Calcium: Calcium is necessary for the normal growth and development of bones and teeth. Calcium deficiency can lead to rickets in children. Calcium dietary supplements can be recommended to children who do not consume enough dairy products.

Recommendations for the choice of dietary supplements for children:

1. Consultation with a doctor: Before using any dietary supplement for a child, you need to consult a doctor.
2. The choice of a trusted manufacturer: Buy dietary supplements only from trusted manufacturers and in reliable pharmacies.
3. A careful study of the composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that there are no well -known allergens in it.
4. Dosage compliance: Strictly observe the recommended dosage of dietary supplements and do not exceed it.
5. Observation of the reaction of the child: Carefully observe the reaction of the child to dietary supplements and when any side effects appear, immediately stop its use and consult a doctor.

Section 5: Alternative ways to obtain the necessary vitamins and minerals: a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

In most cases, a healthy child who receives a full and balanced diet is not needed. The best way to provide the child with all the necessary vitamins and minerals is a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

• Balanced nutrition: The child’s diet should include a variety of products from all main groups: vegetables and fruits, cereals, proteins and dairy products. It is important to ensure that the child receives enough vitamins and minerals from food.

• Vegetables and fruits: Vegetables and fruits are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. It is recommended to consume at least 5 servings of vegetables and fruits per day.

• Cereals: Cereals are a source of carbohydrates, fiber and vitamins of group B. It is recommended to choose whole grain products, such as whole grain bread, whole grains and pasta from solid grades of wheat.

• Squirrels: Proteins are necessary for the growth and development of the body. It is recommended to use a variety of protein sources such as meat, fish, eggs, legumes and dairy products.

• Dairy products: Dairy products are a source of calcium, which is necessary for the normal growth and development of bones and teeth. It is recommended to consume dairy products with low fat.

• Healthy lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle includes sufficient sleep, regular physical exercises and limiting the use of harmful products, such as sweets, carbonated drinks and fast food.

• Sufficient sleep: During sleep, the body is restored and strengthened by the immune system. The child needs to sleep enough hours in accordance with his age.

• Regular physical exercises: Exercise helps strengthen muscles and bones, improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system and increase immunity. It is recommended to engage in physical exercises for at least 60 minutes a day.

• Limiting the use of harmful products: Harmful products, such as sweets, carbonated drinks and fast food, contain a lot of sugar, fat and salt, which can negatively affect the health of the child. It is recommended to limit the use of these products.

Section 6: Questions and answers about dietary supplements for children.

• Question: My child is often prescribed vitamins in syrup to increase immunity. How justified is this?

  Answer: The purpose of vitamins in syrup to “increase immunity” without a preliminary assessment of the state of health of the child and identifying a deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals is not always justified. Immunity is a complex system, which is affected by many factors, including genetics, nutrition, sleep, physical activity and the environment. Vitamins and minerals play an important role in maintaining the normal operation of the immune system, but they are not a miraculous tool that can “increase” immunity. In most cases, a healthy child who receives a full and balanced diet is not needed in syrup. If the child often has infectious diseases, it is necessary to consult a doctor to identify the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment. The doctor may prescribe a blood test to determine the level of vitamins and minerals and, if necessary, recommend taking certain dietary supplements. However, it is important to remember that dietary supplements are not a replacement for good nutrition, a healthy lifestyle and preventive measures (for example, vaccination).

• Question: In the pharmacy, I advised me with a dietary supplement with probiotics for the prevention of dysbiosis in a child after taking antibiotics. Is it worth it to give it?

  Answer: Taking antibiotics can disrupt the intestinal microflora and lead to the development of dysbiosis. Probiotics are living microorganisms that have a positive effect on the intestinal microflora. Taking probiotics after a course of antibiotics can help restore the balance of microflora and prevent the development of dysbiosis. However, before the use of probiotics in a child, it is necessary to consult a doctor, especially if the child has serious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. The doctor will be able to choose the right probiotic and determine the necessary dosage. It is important to choose probiotics containing bacteria strains that have proven their effectiveness in clinical research. It should also be remembered that probiotics are not panacea and in some cases may not be effective enough.

• Question: My child is a vegetarian. What dietary supplements does he need to accept?

  Answer: The vegetarian diet can be healthy and balanced, but it can also lead to a deficiency of some nutrients, such as vitamin B12, iron, calcium, zinc, iodine and omega-3 fatty acids. Vitamin B12 is mainly contained in animal products, so vegetarians need to receive it from enriched products (for example, vegetable milk, cereals) or in the form of dietary supplements. Iron from plant sources is absorbed worse than from animal sources, so vegetarians need to consume products rich in iron, along with products containing vitamin C, which improves iron absorption. Calcium can be obtained from plant springs such as green leafy vegetables, broccoli and tofu. Zinc is contained in grain, legumes and nuts. Iodine can be obtained from iodized salt or seaweed. Omega-3 fatty acids can be obtained from linen oil, walnuts and chia seeds. It is recommended to consult a doctor or a nutritionist to develop an individual diet and reception of dietary supplements in order to provide the child with all the necessary nutrients.

• Question: I give the child a dietary supplement with vitamin D, but his hair still falls out. What to do?

  Answer: Hair loss in a child can be caused by various causes, such as deficiency of vitamins and minerals, stress, hormonal disorders, skin diseases and other factors. Vitamin D deficiency can be one of the causes of hair loss, but not the only one. If you give the child a dietary supplement with vitamin D, but his hair still falls out, you must consult a doctor to identify the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment. The doctor may prescribe a blood test to determine the level of vitamins and minerals, hormones and other indicators. A doctor can also recommend a dermatologist consultation to exclude skin diseases. Do not independently prescribe other dietary supplements or drugs to the child, as this can be dangerous for health.

• Question: My child refuses to drink vitamins in tablets. Can they be replaced by chewing vitamins or marmalades?

  Answer: Chewing vitamins and marmalade can be a good alternative to children who refuse to drink vitamins in tablets. However, it must be borne in mind that chewing vitamins and marmalade often contain more sugar and artificial dyes than vitamins in tablets. It is also necessary to carefully study the composition of chewing vitamins and marmalade and make sure that they contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals in the correct dosage. It is recommended to choose chewing vitamins and marmalade, which do not contain artificial dyes, flavors and preservatives. It should also be remembered that chewing vitamins and marmalade should not be a replacement for good nutrition.

Section 7: Legislative regulation of dietary supplements for children in Russia.

In Russia, the production and turnover of dietary supplements are regulated by the Federal Law “On the sanitary and epidemiological well-being of the population” and other regulatory acts. An important step is the state registration of dietary supplements, which confirms the compliance of products with sanitary and epidemiological requirements.

• State registration of dietary supplements: The procedure for state registration of dietary supplements includes an examination of documentation and product samples for compliance with sanitary standards and rules. After successful registration of dietary supplements, it is submitted to the state register and receives a certificate of state registration. The presence of a certificate of state registration is a prerequisite for the production and turnover of dietary supplements in Russia.

• Bades labeling requirements: The marking of dietary supplements should contain complete and reliable information about the composition, method of use, dosage, contraindications and possible side effects. It is necessarily indicated that dietary supplements are not a drug. Marking should be clear and easy to read.

• Quality control of dietary supplements: Quality control of dietary supplements is carried out by the bodies of Rospotrebnadzor. Rospotrebnadzor conducts planned and unscheduled inspections of enterprises manufacturing and selling dietary supplements, selects products for laboratory research and takes measures to suppress violations of legislation in the field of sanitary and epidemiological well-being of the population.

• Responsibility for violation of the legislation on dietary supplements: For violation of the legislation on dietary supplements, administrative and criminal liability is provided. Violation of the requirements for the production, turnover and labeling of dietary supplements can lead to fines, suspension of the enterprise and confiscation of products.

• Changes in the legislation: Dietary supplements are constantly being improved. Changes are made to sanitary standards and rules, new requirements for the quality and safety of products are established. It is important to monitor changes in the legislation in order to keep abreast of the current requirements for dietary supplements.

Section 8: Alternative opinions of experts about dietary supplements for children.

Not all experts definitely support the use of dietary supplements for children. There are different opinions about the benefits and safety of these products.

• Criticism of Dads: Some doctors and scientists believe that dietary supplements do not have a sufficient evidence base about their effectiveness and safety. They argue that in most cases healthy children who receive a good food are not needed. They also indicate risks associated with the use of dietary supplements, such as allergic reactions, an overdose and interaction with drugs.

• Support for dietary supplements: Other doctors and scientists believe that dietary supplements can be useful for children in certain situations, for example, with a deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals or in the presence of certain diseases. They argue that dietary supplements can help make up for a lack of nutrients and maintain the normal functioning of organs and systems.

• The need for an individual approach: Most experts agree that the issue of the use of dietary supplements for children should be resolved individually in each case. It is necessary to take into account the state of health of the child, his nutrition, lifestyle and other factors. Before using dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor.

• The importance of critical thinking: It is important to critically relate to marketing statements about the miraculous properties of dietary supplements. Do not believe an advertisement that promises a cure for all diseases with the help of dietary supplements. It is necessary to carefully study the information about the dietary supplement before deciding on its application.

• Alternative methods: Before using a dietary supplement, it is worth considering alternative methods of improving the health of the child, such as a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle and regular physical exercises. In most cases, these measures are enough to maintain the health of the child.

Section 9: Recommendations to parents on the safe use of dietary supplements in children.

The safe use of dietary supplements in children requires a responsible approach by parents.

• Consultation with a doctor: Before using any dietary supplement for a child, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will be able to assess the state of health of the child, identify possible deficits of nutrients and choose the right dietary supplement in the correct dosage.

• The choice of a trusted manufacturer: Buy dietary supplements only from trusted manufacturers and in reliable pharmacies. Make sure there is a certificate of state registration of dietary supplements.

• A careful study of the composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that there are no well -known allergens in it. Pay attention to the content of vitamins and minerals and compare it with the recommended daily dose for the child.

• Dosage compliance: Strictly observe the recommended dosage of dietary supplements and do not exceed it. An overdose of vitamins and minerals can be dangerous for the health of the child.

• Observation of the reaction of the child: Carefully observe the reaction of the child to dietary supplements and when any side effects appear, immediately stop its use and consult a doctor.

• Bad storage: Keep dietary supplements in an inaccessible place for children, in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight.

• Information of the doctor: Tell the doctor about all the dietary supplements that the child takes. This will help to avoid undesirable interactions with drugs.

• Do not replace medicines with dietary supplements: Bades are not drugs and cannot replace them in the treatment of diseases. Do not use dietary supplements for self -medication and do not refuse the drugs prescribed by the doctor.

• Be critical to advertising: Do not believe an advertisement that promises the miraculous properties of dietary supplements. Critically treat information obtained from unverified sources.

• Teach a child: Explain to your child that dietary supplements are not sweets and that they must be accepted only on the recommendation of a doctor and in the correct dosage.

Section 10: Prospects for the development of the market for children for children.

The dietary supplement market for children continues to develop and grow. New products appear, new technologies are being developed and new studies are being conducted.

• Development of personalized nutrition: Personalized nutrition is an approach that takes into account the individual needs of each person in nutrients. In the future, we can expect the development of personalized dietary supplements for children, which will be developed on the basis of genetic analysis and other individual parameters.

• Development of dietary supplements with a new generation probiotics: New probiotics strains are developed, which have higher resistance to gastric juice and antibiotics. In the future, one can expect the appearance of dietary supplements with a new generation probiotics, which will be more effective in restoring intestinal microflora.

• Using nanotechnologies: Nanotechnologies can be used to improve the absorption of vitamins and minerals from dietary supplements. Nanoparticles are developed that protect vitamins and minerals from destruction in the gastrointestinal tract and provide their delivery to the cells of the body.

• Improving quality control: Tight toughening the quality control of dietary supplements from the state. New requirements for the production, turnover and labeling of dietary supplements will be introduced. This will help protect consumers from poor -quality and dangerous products.

• Increased parents’ awareness: It is important to increase the awareness of parents about the benefits and safety of dietary supplements for children. It is necessary to provide parents with reliable information about dietary supplements so that they can make reasonable decisions on their application.

In conclusion, it is worth emphasizing that the question of the use of dietary supplements for children requires a balanced and conscious approach. It is necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of the child, his state of health, nutrition and lifestyle. Before using any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor. Do not rely on advertising and unverified sources of information. The best way to provide a child with all the necessary nutrients is a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle and regular consultations with a doctor.