Bades: myths and reality about harm to health

Bades: myths and reality about harm to health

Section 1: What are dietary supplements and why are they so popular?

1. 1 definition of dietary supplements (biologically active additives)

   The dietary supplements, or biologically active additives, are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances intended for direct intake with food or introduction into food products. These substances may include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, peptides, enzymes, probiotics, prebiotics, plant extracts, animal fabrics, beekeeping products and other components. Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. They serve to maintain health, prevent certain conditions, increase the adaptive capabilities of the body and compensate for the deficiency of nutrients. In different countries, the regulation of dietary supplements can differ significantly, which affects their availability, quality and information provided to consumers. It is important to understand that dietary supplements do not replace good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle, but only complement them. The classification of dietary supplements is diverse: vitamin-mineral complexes, plant drugs, animal products, probiotic and prebiotic complexes, as well as specialized additives for athletes or persons with special dietary needs. The effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements depend on many factors, including the composition, dosage, quality of raw materials, individual characteristics of the body and interaction with other drugs taken. Therefore, before starting to receive dietary supplements, it is recommended to consult a doctor or a qualified specialist in the field of food. Dad manufacturers are responsible for compliance with the products with the established security standards and quality, however, control of this area may be insufficient, which creates risks for consumers. Information of consumers about the composition, properties and potential risks associated with the reception of dietary supplements is an important aspect for ensuring conscious choice and safe use of these products. The legislation of different countries makes various requirements for labeling and advertising of dietary supplements, which complicates the comparison of products and evaluate its effectiveness. Bades can be presented in various forms of release: tablets, capsules, powders, solutions, extracts, concentrates and others. The choice of the form of release depends on the composition of the dietary supplement, the method of its use and the preferences of the consumer. Bades intended for children must comply with the special safety and dosage requirements, taking into account the age characteristics of the body. Some dietary supplements may contain allergens, so people with allergic reactions need to carefully study the composition of the product before its use. The interaction of dietary supplements with drugs can lead to undesirable effects, so it is important to inform the doctor about taking any additives. Studies of the efficiency and safety of dietary supplements are ongoing, and new data is regularly published in the scientific literature. Consumers are recommended to critically evaluate information about dietary supplements and give preference to products that have passed clinical trials and having confirmed effectiveness. The production of dietary supplements must comply with the requirements of the GMP (good manufactoring practice), which guarantees quality control at all stages of production. Bades can be useful for maintaining health, but their improper use can lead to negative consequences.

2. 2 factors determining the popularity of dietary supplements

   The popularity of dietary supplements is determined by a number of factors, including the desire to maintain health and prevention of diseases, aging, the growing interest in natural and alternative treatment methods, active marketing activities of manufacturers, as well as dissatisfaction with traditional medicine in some cases. A modern way of life, characterized by a high level of stress, improper nutrition and insufficient physical activity, contributes to the deficiency of nutrients and the weakening of immunity, which stimulates the consumption of dietary supplements. Advertising of dietary supplements often promises miraculous effects, such as increasing energy, improving cognitive functions, strengthening immunity, slowing down aging and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. These promises, although not always backed up by scientific data, attract consumers who seek to improve their health and quality of life. Easy access to dietary supplements that can be purchased in pharmacies, healthy food stores, online stores and even supermarkets also contributes to their popularity. The lack of strict regulation in some countries allows producers of dietary supplements to actively promote their products, without providing sufficient information about their safety and efficiency. The influence of social networks and blogs, where popular personalities and bloggers talk about their experience of using dietary supplements, also plays an important role in the formation of public opinion and increase demand for these products. In addition, some people turn to dietary supplements in the hope of improving sports results, increasing muscle mass or weight loss. In these cases, it is important to understand that dietary supplements are not replacing proper nutrition and training, but can only complement them. The desire for self -medication and independent prevention of diseases is also an important factor that determines the popularity of dietary supplements. People who experience mild ailments or want to prevent the development of diseases often prefer to take dietary supplements instead of seeking a doctor. The influence of cultural and ethnic traditions that use plant drugs and other natural drugs also contributes to the popularity of dietary supplements. In many cultures, there are centuries -old traditions of using herbs and other natural substances to maintain health and treat various diseases. The skeptical attitude to pharmaceuticals and fears about their side effects can also stimulate dietary supplements. Some people believe that natural products are safer and effective than synthetic medicines. However, it is important to remember that dietary supplements are not always safe and can cause side effects, especially if you use or interact with other drugs incorrectly. Increasing awareness of the importance of nutrients and their role in maintaining health also contributes to the growth of the popularity of dietary supplements. People who are interested in a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition are often looking for ways to optimize their diet and provide the body with all the necessary vitamins and minerals. Economic factors, such as the availability of dietary supplements at a price, also play a role in their popularity. In some cases, dietary supplements can be more affordable than pharmaceuticals, which makes them attractive to people with a limited budget. However, it is important to remember that the price is not always an indicator of the quality and efficiency of dietary supplements.

Section 2: myths about dietary supplements and their refutation

2. 1 myth 1: Dans are absolutely safe, as they are “natural”

   This is one of the most common and dangerous myths about dietary supplements. The statement that “natural” automatically means “safe” is erroneous. Many natural substances, such as plant poisons or toxins, can be very dangerous to health. The safety of dietary supplements depends not only on its origin, but also on its composition, dosage, production method and individual characteristics of the body. Even natural ingredients can cause allergic reactions, side effects or interact with other drugs taken. Some dietary supplements may contain impurities, pollutants or not declared ingredients, which increases the risk of negative health consequences. Control over the quality and safety of dietary supplements may be insufficient, especially in countries with less strict legislation. Therefore, it is important to understand that the term “natural” does not guarantee dietary supplement safety and it is necessary to carefully study the composition of the product and consult a doctor before its use. An example of dangerous “natural” substances is some herbs that can cause damage to the liver, kidneys or heart. Some dietary supplements designed to reduce weight may contain stimulants that have a negative effect on the cardiovascular system. Even vitamins and minerals taken in excessive doses can be toxic and cause undesirable effects. For example, an overdose of vitamin A can lead to damage to the liver and other serious health problems. It is important to remember that dietary supplements do not go through the same strict clinical trials as drugs, so their safety and effectiveness may not be sufficiently studied. Bad manufacturers are not required to prove the safety of their products before it is launched on the market, which creates risks for consumers. Some dietary supplements may contain components that are prohibited or limited to use in drugs due to their potential danger. Information about the composition of the dietary supplement indicated on the label is not always reliable, and some manufacturers can hide or underestimate the content of certain ingredients. The risk of dietary supplements with a drug can be significant, especially in people taking several drugs at the same time. Interaction can lead to an increase in the action of the drug, as well as to an increase in the risk of side effects. Therefore, it is important to inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements in order to avoid undesirable consequences. Bad safety depends on many factors, including age, gender, state of health and genetic characteristics of the body. Some people can be more sensitive to certain dieters than others. Children, pregnant and lactating women should be particularly careful when taking dietary supplements, as some components can be dangerous for their health. Older people should also be careful, since they often have related diseases and medications with which dietary supplements can interact with.

3. 2 myth 2: dietary supplements treat diseases

   Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. They can be used to maintain health, preventing certain conditions and compensation for nutrient deficiency, but do not replace the full treatment prescribed by the doctor. Advertising of dietary supplements, promising a cure for diseases, is inaccurate and can mislead consumers. The use of dietary supplements instead of contacting a doctor can lead to neglect of the disease and a deterioration in the prognosis. It is important to understand that the treatment of diseases requires an integrated approach, including diagnosis, prescribing drugs, physiotherapy, diet and other methods that must be selected by an individual by a doctor. Bades can be useful as an addition to the main treatment, but should not be considered as its replacement. Some dietary supplements can have certain pharmacological properties that can affect the course of the disease, but their effectiveness and safety in the treatment of diseases are often not confirmed by clinical studies. An example of inaccurate statements about the treatment of diseases using dietary supplements is the application for the cure of cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and other serious pathologies. Some dietary supplements use marketing strategies aimed at creating false hopes in patients and their conviction of the effectiveness of their products in the treatment of diseases. The use of dietary supplements instead of traditional treatment can lead to a loss of time and a deterioration in the patient’s health. It is important to remember that self-medication can be dangerous and should always consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements, especially in the presence of chronic diseases. Doctors can evaluate the patient’s health, identify possible contraindications and interaction of dietary supplements with other drugs taken, as well as recommend the optimal dosage and duration of administration. Some dietary supplements can alleviate the symptoms of the disease, but do not eliminate its cause. For example, dietary supplements with anti -inflammatory properties can reduce pain and inflammation with arthritis, but do not cure this disease. It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not a panacea from all diseases and their effectiveness is limited by certain areas of application. Studies of the effectiveness of dietary supplements in the treatment of diseases are often carried out using poor -quality techniques and do not meet the requirements for clinical studies of drugs. The results of these studies may be inaccurate and should not be used to substantiate statements about the cure of diseases using dietary supplements. Regulatory authorities in different countries impose various requirements for advertising of dietary supplements, but do not always effectively stop inaccurate statements about their healing properties. Consumers should be critical of information about dietary supplements and not trust advertising, promising to cure diseases. Instead, you should consult a doctor to receive qualified medical care and follow his recommendations for the treatment of the disease.

4. 3 myth 3: “The more, the better” is the principle applicable to dietary supplements

   The principle of “the more, the better” is absolutely not applicable to dietary supplements. An overdose of vitamins, minerals and other biologically active substances can be not only ineffective, but also dangerous to health. Each dietary supplement has an optimal dosage, which depends on the composition of the product, the individual characteristics of the body and the goals of use. Exceeding the recommended dose can lead to toxic effects, side effects and other undesirable consequences. Vitamins soluble in fats (A, D, E, K) tend to accumulate in the body and can cause serious health problems with an overdose. For example, an overdose of vitamin A can lead to damage to the liver, hair loss and other negative effects. An overdose of vitamin D can cause an increase in blood calcium levels, which can lead to the formation of stones in the kidneys and other problems. Water -soluble vitamins (C, group B) are usually excreted from the body with urine, but with excessive consumption they can also cause side effects, such as stomach disorder, diarrhea and other problems. Minerals, such as iron, zinc, copper and selenium, can also be toxic with an overdose. For example, an overdose of iron can lead to damage to the liver, heart and other organs. An overdose of zinc can reduce immunity and prevent the absorption of other minerals. Plant extracts can also be dangerous for an overdose. Some herbs may contain toxic substances that have a negative effect on the liver, kidneys or other organs. It is important to follow the dosage recommendations indicated on the Bad label, and not exceed them without consulting a doctor. Long -term dietary supplements in high doses can lead to the development of tolerance, when the body ceases to respond to the drug and an increase in the dose is required to achieve the desired effect. This can lead to a vicious circle when a person constantly increases the dose of dietary supplements to get the desired effect, and at the same time increases the risk of side effects. Some dietary supplements can interact with drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect. An overdose of dietary supplements can enhance the interaction with the drug and lead to undesirable consequences. It is important to inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements in order to avoid possible interactions with drugs. Children, pregnant and lactating women should be special when taking dietary supplements, since their body is more sensitive to the toxic effects of an overdose. Older people should also be careful, since they often have related diseases and medications with which dietary supplements can interact with. If any side effects appear after taking the dietary supplements, it is necessary to immediately stop taking it and consult a doctor. An overdose of dietary supplements can lead to serious health consequences, up to death.

Section 3: real risks associated with the use of dietary supplements

5. 1 Poor composition and falsification

   One of the most serious risks associated with the use of dietary supplements is the possibility of acquiring a poor -quality product or falsifier. The production of dietary supplements is not always subjected to the same strict control as the production of drugs, which creates opportunities for unscrupulous manufacturers. Poorive dietary supplements may contain impurities, pollutants, toxic substances or not declared ingredients that can be hazardous to health. Falsified dietary supplements may contain fake ingredients or not contain active components, which makes them ineffective and useless. The risk of acquiring a poor -quality or falsified dietary supplement is especially high when buying products online, from unverified sellers or at suspiciously low prices. Some dietary supplements can use poor -quality raw materials, violate the production process or not comply with the requirements for the storage and transportation of products, which leads to a deterioration in its quality. Information about the composition of the dietary supplement indicated on the label is not always reliable, and some manufacturers can hide or underestimate the content of certain ingredients. Control over the quality and safety of dietary supplements may be insufficient, especially in countries with less strict legislation. As a result, consumers can acquire dietary supplements that do not meet the stated quality and safety requirements. An example of falsification of dietary supplements is the addition of pharmaceuticals to plant drugs designed to treat erectile dysfunction or weight loss. This can be very dangerous to health, as consumers do not know that they take the drug, and may experience serious side effects. Another example is pollution of dietary supplements with heavy metals, such as lead, mercury and cadmium. These metals can accumulate in the body and cause various diseases, including damage to the nervous system, kidneys and other organs. Some dietary supplements may contain allergens that are not indicated on the label. This can be dangerous for people with allergies, as they can experience serious allergic reactions. Consumers should be attentive when choosing dietary supplements and purchase products only from trusted sellers with a good reputation. Before buying dietary supplements, you must carefully study the information on the label, paying attention to the composition, expiration date and manufacturer. If there are doubts as a dietary supplement, it is better to refrain from buying it and consult a doctor or pharmacist to receive a consultation. If any side effects appear after taking the dietary supplements, it is necessary to immediately stop taking it and consult a doctor. Regulatory authorities must strengthen control over the production and sale of dietary supplements in order to protect consumers from low -quality and falsified products.

6. 2 interaction with drugs

   Bades can interact with drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect, as well as causing side effects. The interaction between dietary supplements and medicine can be pharmacokinetic when dietary supplements affect the absorption, distribution, metabolism or excretion of the medicine from the body, or pharmacodynamic, when dietary supplements and medicine have a synergistic or antagonistic effect on the same organs and systems. The risk of interaction between dietary supplements and medicine increases with simultaneous administration of several drugs, in people with concomitant diseases and in the elderly. Some dietary supplements can affect the metabolism of drugs in the liver, changing their concentration in the blood and increasing or weakening their effect. For example, St. John’s wort can accelerate the metabolism of many drugs, reducing their effectiveness. Grapefruit juice can inhibit the metabolism of some drugs, increasing their concentration in the blood and increasing the risk of side effects. Some dietary supplements can affect the absorption of drugs in the intestines, reducing their bioavailability and effectiveness. For example, calcium can reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics. Iron can reduce the absorption of levotiroxin, thyroid hormone. Some dietary supplements can have anticoagulant properties and enhance the effect of anticoagulants, such as warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. For example, ginkgo biloba, garlic and ginger can have anticoagulant properties. Some dietary supplements can affect blood sugar and interact with antidiabetic drugs, increasing or weakening their effect. For example, ginseng can reduce blood sugar. Some dietary supplements can affect blood pressure and interact with antihypertensive drugs, increasing or weakening their effect. For example, a licorice can increase blood pressure. It is important to inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements and medicines in order to avoid possible interactions. The doctor can evaluate the risk of interaction between dietary supplements and medicine and give recommendations for their safe use. Some interactions between dietary supplements and medicines can be useful, but most of them are undesirable and can lead to negative consequences. Consumers should be attentive when taking dietary supplements and medicines and monitor their health status. When any unusual symptoms or side effects appear, you must immediately consult a doctor. Regulatory authorities must provide information about possible interactions between dietary supplements and medicines so that consumers can make conscious decisions about their health. Doctors and pharmacists must be trained in recognition and management of interactions between dietary supplements and medicines.

7. 3 side effects and allergic reactions

   Reception of dietary supplements can cause various side effects and allergic reactions, which can vary in severity from lungs to serious. Side effects of dietary supplements can be associated with the composition of the product, dosage, individual characteristics of the body and interaction with other drugs taken. Allergic reactions to dietary supplements can occur due to the presence of allergens in their composition, such as plant extracts, beekeeping products, lactose, gluten and other substances. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include leather rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema, difficulty breathing and anaphylactic shock. Some dietary supplements can cause side effects from the gastrointestinal tract, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain and bloating. Other dietary supplements can cause side effects from the nervous system, such as headache, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety and irritability. Some dietary supplements can have a negative effect on the liver, kidneys and other organs, especially with prolonged use in high doses. Plant extracts contained in some dietary supplements can cause side effects associated with their pharmacological properties. For example, St. John’s wort can cause photosensitization, an increase in skin sensitivity to sunlight. Valerian can cause drowsiness and a decrease in concentration. Ginko biloba can cause bleeding. Vitamins and minerals taken in excessive doses can cause toxic effects and side effects. For example, an overdose of vitamin A can lead to damage to the liver, hair loss and other negative effects. An overdose of iron can lead to damage to the liver, heart and other organs. Consumers should be attentive when taking dietary supplements and monitor their state of health. When any unusual symptoms or side effects appear, it is necessary to immediately stop taking the dietary supplement and consult a doctor. People with allergies should carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement before its use in order to avoid contact with allergens. Pregnant and lactating women should be particularly careful when taking dietary supplements and consult a doctor before their use. Children should also be careful when taking dietary supplements, and their dosage should be selected by a doctor. Regulatory authorities must demand from the manufacturers of dietary supplements to indicate possible side effects and allergic reactions on the label so that consumers can make conscious decisions about their health. Doctors and pharmacists should be trained in recognition and management of side effects and allergic reactions associated with the intake of dietary supplements.

Section 4: Legislative regulation of dietary supplements in various countries

8. 1 Features of regulation in Russia

   In Russia, legislative regulation of dietary supplements is carried out by the Federal Law “On the quality and safety of food products” and other regulatory acts. Bades do not belong to medicines and are not subject to registration with the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. Before issuing the market, dietary supplements must undergo state registration in Rospotrebnadzor, which issues a certificate of state registration (SGR). To receive the SGR, the manufacturer must submit documents confirming the safety and compliance of the Bad with the established requirements. Requirements for the composition, safety, labeling and packaging of dietary supplements are established by the technical regulations of the Customs Union “On food safety” and “food products in terms of its marking”. Bad labeling should contain information about the composition, food value, area of ​​application, method of application, contraindications, expiration date and manufacturer. Advertising of dietary supplements must comply with the requirements of the Federal Law “On Advertising” and should not contain inaccurate information about the properties and efficiency of dietary supplements. Rospotrebnadzor monitors the quality and safety of dietary supplements at all stages of production and sale. In case of violations, Rospotrebnadzor has the right to suspend or stop the production and sale of dietary supplements, as well as bring violators to justice. Despite the existing legislative regulation, there are a number of problems related to poor -quality products, falsification and inaccurate advertising in Russia in Russia. Control over the quality and safety of dietary supplements by Rospotrebnadzor is not always effective due to insufficient financing and personnel support. Some dietary supplements use loopholes in the legislation to produce products that do not meet the established requirements to the market. Consumers should be attentive when choosing dietary supplements and purchase products only from trusted sellers with a good reputation. Before buying dietary supplements, you must carefully study the information on the label, paying attention to the composition, expiration date and manufacturer. If there are doubts as a dietary supplement, it is better to refrain from buying it and consult a doctor or pharmacist to receive a consultation. It is necessary to strengthen the legislative regulation of the market of the DBA in Russia in order to protect consumers from poor -quality and falsified products. Rospotrebnadzor should strengthen control over the quality and safety of dietary supplements and take strict measures to violators. It is necessary to increase consumer awareness of risks associated with the use of dietary supplements, and teach them how to choose and use these products.

9. 2 Regulation in the USA (FDA)

   In the United States of America (USA), dietary supplement regulation is carried out by the sanitary supervision of the quality of food and medicines (FDA) in accordance with the Law on Food Addles, Health and Education (DSHEA) adopted in 1994. In accordance with DSHEA, dietary supplements are classified as food, and not as drugs, and are not subject to pre -approval of the FDA before the market. Bad manufacturers are not required to prove the safety and effectiveness of their products before selling it, but are responsible for ensuring that their products are safe and meet the requirements for labeling. FDA has the right to take measures against dietary supplements that are a danger to consumer health or contain false information on the label. FDA may issue warnings, demand the seizure of products from the sale and excite judicial claims against manufacturers who violate the law. The requirements for the marking of dietary supplements are set by FDA and include information on the composition, food value, the method of use, contraindications and the manufacturer. Bad marking should not contain allegations of the treatment or prevention of diseases if these statements were not approved by FDA. FDA monitors the quality and safety of dietary supplements, but its resources are limited, and it cannot check all the dietary supplements presented on the market. As a result, there are a significant number of dietary supplements on the US market that do not meet the established quality and safety requirements. FDA cooperates with other state bodies such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), to control the advertising of dietary supplements and suppress false advertising. FTC has the right to take measures against companies that use false or misleading ads of dietary supplements. Despite the existing regulation, there are a number of problems related to low -quality products, falsification and inaccurate advertising in the US market in the US market. FDA calls for consumers to be attentive when choosing dietary supplements and purchase products only from trusted sellers with a good reputation. Before buying dietary supplements, you must carefully study the information on the label, paying attention to the composition, expiration date and manufacturer. If there are doubts as a dietary supplement, it is better to refrain from buying it and consult a doctor or pharmacist to receive a consultation. FDA continues to work on improving the regulation of the market market in the United States in order to protect consumers from poor -quality and falsified products. In recent years, FDA has strengthened control over the production and implementation of dietary supplements, and also took a number of measures to suppress inaccurate advertising.

10. 3 Regulation in the European Union (EFSA)

    In the European Union (EU), the regulation of dietary supplements is carried out in accordance with the Directive of 2002/46/EC of the European Parliament and the Council “On the Combation of Legislation of Member States related to food additives”. Directive 2002/46/EC establishes general rules for dietary supplements, including requirements for composition, labeling and security. The national authorities of the EU member states are responsible for monitoring compliance with these rules on their territory. The European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) assesses the safety of dietary supplements and provides scientific consultations of the European Commission and EU member states. EFSA evaluates the safety of ingredients used in dietary supplements and sets permissible levels of their content in products. Bad labeling must comply with the requirements of the Directive of 2000/13/EC of the European Parliament and the Council “On the Combation of Legislation of Member States regarding the marking, representation and advertising of food products.” Bad labeling should contain information about the composition, food value, area of ​​application, method of application, contraindications, expiration date and manufacturer. Advertising of dietary supplements must comply with the requirements of the Directive of 2006/114/EC of the European Parliament and the Council “On misleading and comparative advertising”. Advertising of dietary supplements should not contain inaccurate information about the properties and effectiveness of dietary supplements. Despite the existing regulation, there are a number of problems in the EU market in the EU market related to poor -quality products, falsification and inaccurate advertising. Control over the quality and safety of dietary supplements by national authorities of the EU member states is not always effective due to insufficient financing and personnel support. Some dietary supplements use loopholes in the legislation to produce products that do not meet the established requirements to the market. Consumers should be attentive when choosing dietary supplements and purchase products only from trusted sellers with a good reputation. Before buying dietary supplements, you must carefully study the information on the label, paying attention to the composition, expiration date and manufacturer. If there are doubts as a dietary supplement, it is better to refrain from buying it and consult a doctor or pharmacist to receive a consultation. The European Commission and EFSA continue to work on improving the regulation of the BAD market in the EU in order to protect consumers from poor -quality and falsified products. In recent years, the European Commission has proposed a number of measures to strengthen control over the production and sale of dietary supplements, as well as to suppress false advertising.

Section 5: How to choose and use dietary supplements to minimize risks

11. 1 consultation with a doctor or specialist

    Before taking any dietary supplements, it is necessary to consult a doctor or a qualified specialist in the field of food. The doctor can evaluate the state of your health, identify possible contraindications and interaction of dietary supplements with other drugs taken, and also recommend the optimal dosage and duration of administration. An independent choice and receiving dietary supplements can be dangerous and lead to undesirable consequences. The doctor can determine whether you really need a dietary supplement, or a deficiency of the necessary substances can be replenished with the help of proper nutrition and healthy