Bad: an alternative to drugs?

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Bad: an alternative to drugs? Study of myths, reality and scientific justification

Chapter 1: The concept of dietary supplements and their place in modern pharmacology

1.1 Definition and classification of dietary supplements

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances designed for direct intake with food or introduction into food products. The main difference between dietary supplements and drugs is their legal status and the purpose of use. Bades are considered as food products, and not as medicines. Their goal is to replenish the deficiency of nutrients, support the functions of organs and systems, strengthen the body and reduce the risk of diseases. Medicines are designed for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of specific diseases, as well as to change the physiological functions of the body.

The classification of dietary supplements is quite wide and based on various criteria:

  • By composition:

    • Nutricevtiki: contain essential foods (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids). For example, multivitamin complexes, fish oil, iron drugs.
    • Parafarmetzetics: contain substances that affect the physiological functions of the body, but are not indispensable food substances. Examples: extracts of medicinal plants (echinacea, ginseng), probiotics, prebiotics, antioxidants.
    • Probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, when introduced into the body in adequate quantities, have a beneficial effect on the health of the owner. Prebiotics are substances that are not digested in the upper sections of the gastrointestinal tract and contribute to the growth and activity of beneficial intestinal microflora.

  • By the form of release:

    • Tablets
    • Capsules
    • Powders
    • Liquids (syrups, solutions)
    • Chewing pastries

  • By the orientation of the action:

    • To maintain immunity
    • To improve digestion
    • To maintain health of the cardiovascular system
    • To strengthen bones and joints
    • To improve cognitive functions
    • To maintain the health of the skin, hair and nails

1.2 regulation of dietary supplements in Russia and the world

In Russia, the turnover of BAD is regulated by the legislation in the field of sanitary and epidemiological well-being of the population and the technical regulations of the Customs Union TR TS 021/2011 “On the safety of food products”. The production and sale of dietary supplements is subject to state registration. When registering, an examination of documents confirming the safety and compliance of products with the established requirements is carried out. However, unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not pass clinical trials confirming their effectiveness. Responsibility for safety and compliance with the declared properties is borne by the manufacturer.

In other countries, for example, in the USA (where they are regulated by FDA as food supplements) and Europe (where they are regulated as food products), the approaches to the regulation of dietary supplements are also different. In general, the safety requirements are quite strict, but the requirements for evidence of effectiveness are often lower than for drugs. This creates certain risks for consumers, since in the market there may be dietary supplements that do not have declared properties.

1.3 Dad production: quality control and standards

Dad production must comply with certain standards, including:

  • GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice): Proper production practice is a system of norms, rules and instructions regarding the production of medicines, dietary supplements, food products and other goods, ensuring their high quality and safety. Compliance with GMP guarantees that the products were produced in accordance with the established requirements and meets the stated characteristics.
  • HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points): Analysis of dangers and critical control points is a food safety management system that identifies, evaluates and controls the dangers associated with the production, processing and distribution of food products.
  • ISO (International Organization for Standardization): The International Standardization Organization develops and publishes international standards covering a wide range of regions, including quality, safety and environmental responsibility.

Despite the availability of standards, there are dietary supplements on the market that do not meet quality and safety requirements. This may be due to the use of poor -quality raw materials, a violation of production technology, and falsification of products. Therefore, it is important to choose a dietary supplement from trusted manufacturers with a good reputation and providing complete information about the composition and process of production of their products.

Chapter 2: Arguments for “and” against “the use of dietary supplements as an alternative to drugs

2.1 Arguments in support of dietary supplements:

  • Naturalness and safety: Supporters of dietary supplements claim that they usually contain natural components, which makes them safer than synthetic drugs. It is believed that the body assimilates and processes natural substances better, which reduces the risk of side effects.
  • Preventive action: Bad is positioned as means for the prevention of diseases and strengthening the body. They can replenish the deficiency of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial substances, which helps maintain health and reduce the risk of developing various diseases.
  • A comprehensive approach to health: Bad can be used as an addition to the main treatment prescribed by a doctor. They help improve the general condition of the body, increase the effectiveness of treatment and reduce the side effects of drugs.
  • Accessibility and convenience: Bad can be purchased without a recipe in pharmacies and healthy meals. This makes them more affordable and convenient for consumers than drugs requiring a doctor’s prescription.
  • Support for body functions: Some dietary supplements can have a positive effect on certain body functions, for example, digestion, immunity, cognitive abilities. This can be useful for people who experience health problems, but do not need treatment with drugs.

2.2 arguments against dietary supplements:

  • Insufficient scientific base: The effectiveness of many dietary supplements has not been proved by clinical research. Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not go through strict clinical trials confirming their effectiveness and safety. Many studies on dietary supplements have low quality or are conducted with the participation of a small number of subjects.
  • The risk of drug interaction: Bad can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or enhancing side effects. For example, some dietary supplements can affect blood coagulation, blood pressure or blood sugar, which can be dangerous while taking drugs affecting these indicators.
  • Inaccurate information and marketing tricks: Dietary supplies often use aggressive marketing strategies and mislead consumers regarding the properties of their products. Applications on the effectiveness of dietary supplements often do not correspond to reality and are not confirmed by scientific data.
  • The risk of harmful impurities: Some dietary supplements may contain harmful impurities, such as heavy metals, pesticides or other toxic substances. This may be due to the use of poor -quality raw materials or a violation of production technology.
  • Lack of efficiency guarantee: Since dietary supplements are not drugs, manufacturers are not required to guarantee their effectiveness. This means that the consumer who bought dietary supplements has no guarantee that he will receive the promised effect.
  • Replacing the necessary treatment: Passion for dietary supplements can lead to a refusal of the necessary treatment prescribed by a doctor. This can have serious health consequences, especially with serious diseases that require timely and adequate treatment.

2.3 myths and reality about dietary supplements

There are many myths associated with dietary supplements. It is important to separate them from reality based on scientific data and common sense.

  • Myth: Bad is completely natural and safe products.
    • Reality: Some dietary supplements really contain natural components, but this does not guarantee their safety. Even natural substances can cause side effects or interact with drugs. In addition, some dietary supplements may contain harmful impurities.
  • Myth: Bad can cure any disease.
    • Reality: Bad are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. They can be used as an addition to the main treatment prescribed by a doctor, but cannot replace it.
  • Myth: All dietary supplements are equally effective.
    • Reality: The effectiveness of dietary supplements depends on their composition, dosage, quality of production and individual characteristics of the body. Not all dietary supplements have declared properties, and some of them can be ineffective.
  • Myth: The larger the dose of dietary supplements, the better the effect.
    • Reality: Exceeding the recommended dose of dietary supplements can lead to side effects and undesirable consequences for health. It is important to follow the dosage recommendations indicated on the packaging or recommended by the doctor.
  • Myth: Bad have no contraindications.
    • Reality: Bad can have contraindications, especially in the presence of certain diseases or taking drugs. Before starting dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor.

Chapter 3: Scientific substantiation of the application of certain categories of dietary supplements

3.1 Vitamins and minerals: the need and validity of the application

Vitamins and minerals are indispensable nutrients necessary for the normal functioning of the body. They participate in various biochemical processes, support the health of bones, muscles, nervous system and immunity. The deficiency of vitamins and minerals can lead to various diseases and health disorders.

In some cases, the use of dietary supplements containing vitamins and minerals can be reasonable:

  • Nutrient deficiency: In the presence of a deficiency of vitamins and minerals, confirmed by the results of blood tests, the use of dietary supplements can help replenish this deficit and improve health.
  • Increased needs: In certain situations, for example, during pregnancy, breastfeeding, intense physical exertion or in certain diseases, the needs for vitamins and minerals can be increased. In these cases, the use of dietary supplements can help satisfy these needs.
  • Limited nutrition: People who adhere to strict diets or having restrictions in nutrition may experience a deficiency of vitamins and minerals. In these cases, the use of dietary supplements can be useful for maintaining health.
  • Age changes: With age, the absorption of vitamins and minerals can deteriorate, which can lead to deficiency. The use of dietary supplements can help compensate for these age -related changes.

It is important to remember that the uncontrolled use of vitamins and minerals can be harmful to health. An overdose of some vitamins and minerals can lead to toxic effects and undesirable consequences. Before taking dietary supplements containing vitamins and minerals, it is necessary to consult a doctor and determine the optimal dosage.

3.2 omega-3 fatty acids: benefits for the heart, brain and overall health

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids necessary for the health of the cardiovascular system, brain and eyes. The most important omega-3 fatty acids are eicosapentaenic acid (EPA) and daily oxaenoic acid (DHA).

Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids have the following useful properties:

  • Reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases: Omega-3 fatty acids reduce the level of triglycerides in the blood, reduce inflammation, improve the function of endothelium (the inner shell of blood vessels) and reduce the risk of blood clots.
  • Improving the function of the brain: DHA is an important component of the cell membranes of the brain and is necessary for the normal development and functioning of the brain. Omega-3 fatty acids improve memory, concentration and cognitive functions.
  • Risk of depression: Some studies show that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of depression and improve mood.
  • Maintaining the health of the eyes: DHA is an important component of the retina and is necessary for normal vision. Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (VMD).
  • Reducing inflammation: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can be useful for inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Bad, containing omega-3 fatty acids, can be useful for people who do not receive a sufficient amount of these fatty acids from food. The main sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), seafood and some vegetable oils (linseed oil, chia oil).

When choosing dietary supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, it is important to pay attention to:

  • EPA and DHA content: Make sure the dietary supplement contains a sufficient amount of EPA and DHA. The recommended daily dose of EPA and DHA is 250-500 mg.
  • The source of omega-3 fatty acids: It is preferable to choose dietary supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids obtained from fish caught in clean waters.
  • Availability of quality certificates: Make sure that dietary supplements have quality certificates confirming its safety and compliance with the declared characteristics.

3.3 probiotics and prebiotics: intestinal health and immunity

Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, when introduced into the body in adequate quantities, have a beneficial effect on the health of the owner. Prebiotics are substances that are not digested in the upper sections of the gastrointestinal tract and contribute to the growth and activity of beneficial intestinal microflora.

The intestines plays an important role in maintaining the health of the body. A huge amount of microorganisms live in the intestines that make up the intestinal microbiota. The intestinal microbiota is involved in digestion, synthesis of vitamins, protection against pathogenic microorganisms and maintaining immunity.

Dysbacteriosis is a violation of the balance of intestinal microbiots, which can lead to various diseases and health disorders, such as:

  • Diarrhea and constipation
  • Bloating and flatulence
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (SRK)
  • Inflammatory diseases of the intestine (BCC)
  • Allergic reactions
  • Weakening of immunity

Probiotics and prebiotics can help restore the balance of intestinal microbiots and improve health.

Probiotics have the following positive effects:

  • Suppression of growth of pathogenic microorganisms
  • Improving digestion
  • Synthesis of vitamins
  • Strengthening immunity
  • Reduction of risk of allergic reactions

Prebiotics stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, which also helps to improve digestion, strengthen immunity and maintain intestinal health.

Bad containing probiotics and prebiotics can be useful for:

  • Taking antibiotics
  • Diarrhea and constipation
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (SRK)
  • Inflammatory diseases of the intestine (BCC)
  • Weakening of immunity

When choosing dietary supplements containing probiotics, it is important to pay attention to:

  • Type and quantity of probiotic bacteria: Make sure that dietary supplements contain strains of probiotic bacteria, the effectiveness of which is proved by clinical studies.
  • The viability of probiotic bacteria: Make sure that probiotic bacteria in dietary supplements remain viable until the expiration of the expiration date.
  • Resistance to gastric juice: Make sure that probiotic bacteria are resistant to gastric juice and reach the intestines in a viable state.

3.4 Plant extracts: traditional medicine and modern science

Plant extracts are widely used in traditional medicine for many centuries. Some plant extracts have proven healing properties and can be useful for maintaining health and treating various diseases.

However, it is important to remember that the effectiveness and safety of plant extracts can vary depending on the type of plant, the method of extraction, dosage and individual characteristics of the body. Before taking dietary supplements containing plant extracts, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Some plant extracts used in dietary supplements:

  • SOUTINATEA: It has immunomodulating properties and can be useful for the prevention and treatment of colds.
  • Ginseng: It has adaptogenic properties and can increase the body’s resistance to stress, improve cognitive functions and increase energy.
  • Milk thistle paddy: It has hepatoprotective properties and can be useful for maintaining liver health.
  • Cranberry: Contains antioxidants and can be useful for the prevention of urinary tract infections.
  • St. John’s wort is perforated: It has antidepressant properties and can be useful with mild and moderate depression.

When choosing dietary supplements containing plant extracts, it is important to pay attention to:

  • Extract quality: Make sure that the extract is obtained from high -quality raw materials and contains a sufficient amount of active substances.
  • Extract standardization: It is preferable to choose dietary supplements containing standardized extracts in which the exact content of active substances is indicated.
  • Dosage: Follow the dosage recommendations indicated on the packaging or recommended by the doctor.

Chapter 4: risks and side effects of dietary supplement

4.1 possible side effects and interactions with drugs

Despite the fact that dietary supplements are positioned as a safer alternative to drugs, they can also cause side effects and interact with drugs. It is important to consider that “natural” does not always mean “safe”.

Side effects of dietary supplement may include:

  • Digestive disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, abdominal pain.
  • Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema, anaphylactic shock (rarely).
  • Headache, dizziness, weakness.
  • Increasing blood pressure, rapid heartbeat.
  • Blood coagulation disorders.
  • Damage to the liver or kidneys (rarely).

Interactions of dietary supplements with drugs:

Bad can change pharmacokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion) and pharmacodynamics (action) of drugs, which can lead to:

  • Reducing the effectiveness of the drug: For example, St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of contraceptives, antidepressants and some other drugs.
  • Strengthening the side effects of the drug: For example, vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants (drugs that thin blood).
  • Increasing the risk of developing side effects of the drug: For example, grapefruit juice (which is sometimes used as an additive) can increase the concentration of some drugs in the blood, which increases the risk of side effects.

Examples of interactions:

  • Warfarin (anticoagulant) and vitamin K: Vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of warfarin, increasing the risk of blood clots.
  • St. John’s wort is perforated and antidepressants: St. John’s wort can interact with some antidepressants, causing serotonin syndrome (dangerous condition characterized by high temperature, tremor, excitement and other symptoms).
  • Grapefruit juice and statins (drugs that reduce cholesterol): Grapefruit juice can increase the concentration of statins in the blood, increasing the risk of side effects, such as muscle damage.

4.2 Risk of overdose and toxicity

An overdose of dietary supplements can be dangerous to health, especially in the case of vitamins and minerals. Some vitamins (for example, vitamins A, D, E, K) are fat -soluble and can accumulate in the body, causing toxic effects.

Signs of overdose:

Signs of overdose vary depending on the specific dietary supplement, but may include:

  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain.
  • Headache, dizziness, weakness.
  • Irritability, excitement, insomnia.
  • Skin rash, itching.
  • Heart rhythm disturbances.
  • Damage to the liver or kidneys.
  • In severe cases – coma and death.

The risk of toxicity:

Some dietary supplements may contain toxic substances, such as heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium), pesticides or other pollutants. This may be due to the use of poor -quality raw materials, a violation of production technology or falsification of products.

4.3 Lack of strict quality control and falsification

Unlike drugs, dietary supplements are not subjected to the same strict quality control. This can lead to the fact that products containing incorrect ingredients, irregular doses or harmful impurities appear on the market.

Problems with the quality of dietary supplements:

  • The inconsistency of the composition of the declared: The dietary supplement may contain the ingredients not indicated on the label, or the ingredients in irregular doses.
  • The content of harmful impurities: Bad may contain heavy metals, pesticides, microorganisms or other pollutants.
  • Falsification: Bad can be faked and contain ineffective or even dangerous ingredients.

Signs of falsified dietary supplements:

  • Low price: If the price of dietary supplements is much lower than that of other similar products, this may be a sign of falsification.
  • Lack of information about the manufacturer: On the package of the dietary supplement, complete information about the manufacturer, including the name, address and contact details, should indicate.
  • Unusual smell or taste: If the dietary supplement has an unusual smell or taste, this can be a sign of falsification.
  • Lack of effect: If dietary supplements have no effect after several weeks of admission, this may be a sign of inefficiency or falsification.

4.4 Special risk groups: pregnant, nursing women, children and elderly people

Some groups of the population are especially vulnerable to side effects and interactions of dietary supplements.

Pregnant and lactating women:

Reception of dietary supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be especially careful, since some ingredients can be dangerous for the development of the fetus or child. Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor.

Children:

The dosage of dietary supplements for children should be strictly observed, since the child’s body is more sensitive to side effects. Some dietary supplements can be contraindicated for children.

Elderly people:

Older people often take several drugs at the same time, which increases the risk of dietary supplements with drugs. In addition, in the elderly, the function of the liver and kidneys can be reduced, which can lead to a slowdown in dietary supplements and an increase in the risk of toxicity.

Chapter 5: How to choose and use diet

5.1 Consultation with a doctor: necessity and importance

The first and most important step before taking any dietary supplement is a consultation with a doctor. The doctor will be able to evaluate your health status, determine if you have a shortage of any nutrients, and recommend suitable dietary supplements in the correct dosage.

Advantages of consulting a doctor:

  • Individual approach: The doctor will take into account your individual health characteristics, age, gender, presence of chronic diseases and drugs taken.
  • Assessment of necessity: The doctor will determine whether you really need dietary supplements, or you can get the necessary nutrients from food.
  • Choosing the right product: The doctor will help you choose a dietary supplement that meets your needs and has a proven effectiveness.
  • Dosage Definition: The doctor will determine the optimal dosage of dietary supplements, taking into account your individual characteristics.
  • Prevention of interactions: The doctor will check whether the dietary supplement will interact with the drugs you take.
  • Monitoring of the effect: The doctor will be able to track the effect of dietary supplement and adjust the dosage if necessary.

5.2 Study of the composition and reputation of the manufacturer

Before buying dietary supplements, carefully study the composition of the product. Pay attention to:

  • Ingredients: Check what ingredients are part of dietary supplements, and make sure that you do not have an allergy to any of them.
  • Dosage: Check what dosage of each ingredient is contained in the dietary supplement, and make sure that it corresponds to the recommended.
  • Excipients: Pay attention to the auxiliary substances, such as preservatives, dyes and flavors. If possible, choose products with a minimum number of excipients.

It is also important to consider the reputation of the manufacturer. Choose a dietary supplement from well -known and reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and provide complete information about their products.

Manufacturer selection criteria:

  • Availability of quality certificates: Make sure that the manufacturer has quality certificates confirming the compliance of products with the established standards.
  • Production transparency: Choose manufacturers who provide information about the production process, used raw materials and quality control.
  • Positive reviews: Read the reviews of other consumers about the manufacturer.
  • Scientific research: Check if the manufacturer conducted scientific research on his products, and whether there is evidence of its effectiveness.

5.3 Compliance with recommendations for receiving and dosage

Strictly follow the recommendations for the reception and dosage indicated on the package of dietary supplements or recommended by the doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dosage, as this can lead to side effects.

Important points:

  • Reception time: Follow recommendations for the time of admission of dietary supplements (for example, before, during or after eating).
  • Duration of admission: Do not take dietary supplement longer than the recommended deadline.
  • Interaction with food: Keep in mind whether the dietary supplement can interact with certain foods.
  • Storage conditions: Follow the storage conditions of the dietary supplements indicated on the packaging.

5.4 Monitoring of health status and cessation of admission if necessary

During the use of dietary supplements, carefully monitor your health status. If you notice any side effects, immediately stop taking dietary supplements and consult a doctor.

Signs requiring the termination of dietary supplement:

  • Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema.
  • Digestive disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain.
  • Headache, dizziness, weakness.
  • Increasing blood pressure, rapid heartbeat.
  • Sleep disorders.
  • Changes in blood or urine tests.

It is important to remember:

  • Bad is not a panacea. They cannot replace full nutrition, a healthy lifestyle and treatment prescribed by a doctor.
  • The reception of dietary supplements should be conscious and reasonable.
  • Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor.
  • Follow recommendations for admission and dosage.
  • Carefully follow your health and stop taking dietary supplements when side effects appear.

Chapter 6: The future of dietary supplements: trends and prospects

6.1 Development of scientific research and evidence base

The future dietary supplement is directly related to the development of scientific research and the formation of a stronger evidence base. It is necessary to conduct more large -scale and high -quality clinical trials to confirm the efficiency and safety of dietary supplements.

Trends in scientific research:

  • Study of action mechanisms: Studies aimed at studying the mechanisms of action of dietary supplements at the molecular and cellular level.
  • Clinical trials: Conducting large -scale and well -planned clinical tests to assess the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements.
  • Meta-analyzes and systematic reviews: Conducting meta analyzes and systematic reviews of existing research to assess the total evidence base.
  • Individualized approach: The development of individualized approaches to the use of dietary supplements, taking into account genetic characteristics, metabolism and other factors.

6.2 Personalized nutrigenomy and the role of dietary supplements

Personalized nutrigenomy is a new direction in science that studies the relationship between genes, nutrition and health. Nutrigenomy allows you to develop individual recommendations for nutrition and use of dietary supplements, taking into account the genetic characteristics of each person.

Nutrichenomics:

  • Determination of a genetic predisposition to various diseases.
  • Identification of genetic options affecting the metabolism of nutrients.
  • Development of individual dietary recommendations and recommendations for the use of dietary supplements.
  • Optimization of nutrition and the use of dietary supplements to maintain health and prevent diseases.

6.3 New forms of release and technology for delivery of dietary supplements

New forms of release and dietary supplement delivery technologies are being developed, which can improve their bioavailability, assimilation and efficiency.

Examples of new forms of release and delivery technologies:

  • Liposomal dietary supplement: Liposomes are microscopic spheres consisting of phospholipids. They can be used to deliver dietary supplements to cells of the body, improving their bioavailability.
  • Microcapsulated dietary supplements: Microcapsulation is the process of imprisonment in microscopic capsules. This can protect the dietary supplement from the effects of gastric juice and improve their absorption in the intestines.
  • Transdermal dietary supplement: Transdermal dietary supplements are applied to the skin and absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin. This can be a convenient way to receive dietary supplements for people who have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules.
  • Sublingval dietary supplement: Sublingval dietary supplements are absorbed in the tongue. This allows the dietary supplement to be quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract.

6.4 Integration of dietary supplements into health and prevention systems

In the future, dietary supplements can be integrated into health and prevention systems, which will use them more efficiently and safely.

Possible integration routes:

  • Development of clinical recommendations for the use of dietary supplements for certain population groups and diseases.
  • ** Training of doctors and pharmacists on issues

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