Bades: myths and reality about harm to health
Part 1: Definition and classification of dietary supplements
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What is dietary supplement? Legislative definition and regulation. Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrates of natural or natural biologically active substances that are intended for direct use with food or introduction into food products in order to enrich the ration with individual food or biologically active substances and their complexes, as well as to maintain normal and restoration of impaired health. Unlike drugs, dietary supplements are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Their goal is prevention, maintaining the functional activity of organs and systems, as well as improving the general state of the body. In the Russian Federation, the regulation of the turnover of dietary supplements is carried out by the Federal Law of 02.01.2000 N 29-ФЗ “On the quality and safety of food products” and the sanitary-epidemiological rules and standards of SanPiN 2.3.2.1290-03 “Hygienic requirements for the organization of the production and turnover of biologically active food additives (dietary supplements)”. These documents determine the requirements for production, composition, labeling, storage and sale of dietary supplements. It is important to note that dietary supplements are subject to state registration, which confirms their compliance with sanitary and epidemiological requirements. However, unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not pass clinical trials in the same amount as drugs.
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The main categories of dietary supplements: nutricians, parapharmaceuticals, probiotics and prebiotics. Bad can be divided into several main categories:
- Nutricevtiki: These are dietary supplements that are a source of necessary food substances, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3, omega-6), dietary fiber and others. They are designed to replenish the deficiency of these substances in the diet and maintain the normal functioning of the body. Examples of nutricians: vitamin D, calcium, iron, fish oil, lecithin.
- Parafarmetzetics: These are dietary supplements that have a soft regulatory effect on the function of organs and systems of the body. They contain biologically active substances, such as plant extracts, enzymes, antioxidants and other compounds that can have a certain therapeutic or preventive effect. Examples of parapharmaceuticals: Echinacea extract, Coenzyme Q10, Ginkgo Biloba, Proophashi extract.
- Probiotics: These are dietary supplements containing living microorganisms, which, when used in sufficient quantities, have a positive effect on the health of the owner. Probiotics help maintain normal intestinal microflora, improve digestion, strengthen immunity and can have a preventive effect in various diseases. Examples of probiotics: lactobacilli, bifidobacteria.
- Prebiotics: These are dietary supplements containing substances that are not digested in the upper sections of the gastrointestinal tract, but serve as food for beneficial bacteria in the intestines. Prebiotics contribute to the growth and reproduction of useful microflora, improve digestion and strengthen immunity. Examples of prebiotics: inulin, fructoligosaccharides (phos), galactooligosaccharides (state).
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Forms of the production of dietary supplements: tablets, capsules, powders, liquids, etc. Bades are produced in various forms to ensure the convenience of admission and dosage. The most common forms of dietary supplement release:
- Tablets: These are solid dosed forms obtained by pressing powder or granular materials. The tablets can be covered with a shell to improve taste, masking smell or protect against gastric juice.
- Capsules: These are solid gelatin membranes containing a dosed amount of powder, granules, liquids or paste. Capsules provide protection of the contents from environmental exposure and facilitate swallowing.
- Powders: These are crushed solids designed for dissolution in water or other liquid before use. Powers are convenient for dosing and mixing with other products.
- Liquids: These are solutions, suspensions or emulsions containing biologically active substances. Liquids can be intended for oral or external use.
- Other forms: Other forms of prolonged dietary supplements include chewing tablets, loafers, bars, teas and other specialized products.
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Differences in dietary supplements and drugs: use of use, clinical trials, production requirements. The main differences in dietary supplements and drugs are as follows:
- Purpose of application: Medicines are designed for the treatment, diagnosis and prevention of diseases. Bades are designed to maintain health, preventing nutrient deficiency and improve the general condition of the body.
- Clinical trials: Medicines undergo strict clinical trials to confirm their effectiveness and safety. Bades do not pass clinical trials in the same volume as medicines. Their effectiveness and safety are evaluated on the basis of data on the ingredients included in the composition.
- Production requirements: The production of drugs is regulated by strict GMP (good manufactoring practice) standards, which provide high quality and safety of products. The production of dietary supplements must also meet certain standards, but the requirements for them are less stringent than to the production of drugs.
- Marking: The marking of drugs should contain detailed information about the composition, indications, contraindications, side effects and the method of use. The marking of dietary supplements should also contain information about the composition recommended by the method of application and contraindications, but the requirements for it are less strict.
- Registration: Medicines are subject to state registration at the Ministry of Health. Bades are subject to state registration in Rospotrebnadzor.
Part 2: Myths about the dangers of dietary supplements
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Myth 1: Bades are “dummies” and do not contain useful substances. This myth is not true. High -quality dietary supplements made in accordance with established standards contain biologically active substances. The problem is that the market has a large number of low -quality products produced by unscrupulous manufacturers. In order to avoid the acquisition of the “dummy”, it is necessary to choose dietary supplements of famous and proven brands that have a good reputation, and purchase them in pharmacies or specialized stores where you can get a specialist consultation. You should also carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement indicated on the packaging and pay attention to the presence of a certificate of conformity.
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Myth 2: Bades are harmful to the liver and kidneys. This myth has reason, but only in cases where dietary supplements are used uncontrolled, in high doses or in the presence of contraindications. Some biologically active substances contained in dietary supplements can provide a load on the liver and kidneys, especially with prolonged use or in the presence of diseases of these organs. For example, some plant extracts may contain hepatotoxic substances, and an excess of vitamins and minerals can lead to the formation of stones in the kidneys. Therefore, before taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to consult a doctor, especially in the presence of chronic diseases. It is important to comply with the recommended dosages indicated on the packaging, and not exceed them without prescribing a doctor.
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Myth 3: Bades are addictive and addiction. Dietary supplements do not contain narcotic or psychotropic substances, so they cannot cause physical dependence. However, some people may experience psychological dependence on dietary supplements, especially if they believe in their miraculous properties and use them to solve emotional problems. Such a dependence can manifest itself in a constant desire to take dietary supplements, even if this is not necessary, and in anxiety in the absence of the possibility of taking them. To prevent psychological dependence, it is important to consciously approach the use of dietary supplements, not to consider them as a panacea from all diseases and not replace them with a full nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.
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Myth 4: Bades are a cure for all diseases. This is a dangerous delusion. Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. They can be used as an auxiliary means to maintain health and prevent diseases, but do not replace the full treatment prescribed by the doctor. If there are any diseases, you must consult a doctor and follow his recommendations. Self -medication using dietary supplements can lead to a deterioration in the condition and the development of complications.
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Myth 5: Bades are not controlled by the state and may contain hazardous substances. This myth is partially incorrect. Bades are subject to state registration, which confirms their compliance with sanitary and epidemiological requirements. However, control over the quality and safety of dietary supplements is less strict than monitoring drugs. In addition, there is a large amount of illegal products on the market that has not passed state registration and may contain hazardous substances, such as heavy metals, pesticides, hormonal drugs and other harmful impurities. In order to avoid the purchase of poor -quality products, it is necessary to purchase dietary supplements in pharmacies or specialized stores licensed for the sale of dietary supplements and demand documents confirming the quality and safety of products from the seller.
Part 3: Real risks associated with the reception of dietary supplements
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Incorrect dosage and overdose: consequences for the body. Incorrect dosage and overdose of dietary supplements can lead to various undesirable consequences for the body. For example, an overdose of vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia, which manifests itself in nausea, vomiting, weakness and other symptoms. An overdose of iron can lead to poisoning, especially in children. An overdose of vitamin C can cause a disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. It is important to strictly observe the recommended dosages indicated on the packaging, and not exceed them without a doctor’s prescription. If any undesirable symptoms appear after taking the dietary supplement, it is necessary to stop taking it and consult a doctor.
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Interaction of dietary supplements with drugs: dangerous combinations. Some dietary supplements can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or enhancing their side effects. For example, St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants, anticoagulants and contraceptives. Vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants. Grapefruit juice can enhance the effect of some drugs, increasing the risk of side effects. Before taking the Bad, it is necessary to inform the doctor about all the drugs taken in order to avoid undesirable interactions.
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Allergic reactions to dietary supplements: symptoms and precautions. Bades may contain various components that can cause allergic reactions in sensitive people. The most common allergens are plant extracts, bee products, lactose, gluten and other additives. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can vary from light skin rashes and itching to severe anaphylactic reactions requiring immediate medical care. Before starting a dietary supplement, it is necessary to carefully study its composition and make sure that there are no components that you have an allergy. If any allergic symptoms appear after taking the dietary supplement, it is necessary to stop taking it and consult a doctor.
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Low quality and falsification of dietary supplements: risks for consumers. There are a large number of poor -quality and falsified dietary supplements on the market, which do not contain biologically active substances or contain dangerous impurities. Such dietary supplements can be ineffective or even dangerous to health. In order to avoid the purchase of poor -quality products, it is necessary to purchase dietary supplements in pharmacies or specialized stores licensed for the sale of dietary supplements and demand documents confirming the quality and safety of products from the seller. You should also pay attention to the price of a dietary supplement. Too low price may indicate a fake.
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Lack of proven effectiveness: dietary supplements and serious diseases. Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of serious diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and others. Although some dietary supplements can have a certain positive effect on the body, their effectiveness in the treatment of serious diseases has not been proven. Self -medication using dietary supplements with serious diseases can lead to a deterioration in condition and the development of complications. If there are serious diseases, you must consult a doctor and follow his recommendations. Bades can only be used as an auxiliary agent after consulting a doctor.
Part 4: Rules for safe dietary supplements
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Consultation with a doctor before starting the appointment: necessity and advantages. Before taking the dietary supplement, it is necessary to consult a doctor, especially in the presence of chronic diseases, pregnancy, breastfeeding or taking medications. The doctor will be able to evaluate your health status, identify possible contraindications and recommend the optimal dosage and dietary supplement scheme. Consultation with a doctor will help to avoid undesirable interactions with drugs and develop side effects.
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The choice of high -quality dietary supplements: criteria and recommendations. When choosing a dietary supplement, you need to pay attention to the following criteria:
- Manufacturer: Choose dietary supplements of well -known and proven brands that have a good reputation.
- Composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement indicated on the packaging. Make sure the absence of the components that you have an allergy.
- Certificate of conformity: Demand the seller with documents confirming the quality and safety of products.
- Place of acquisition: Bear dietary supplements in pharmacies or specialized stores licensed for the sale of dietary supplements.
- Price: Be careful with dietary supplements at a too low price, as this may indicate a fake.
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Compliance with recommended dosages: the importance and consequences of excess. It is important to strictly observe the recommended dosages indicated on the packaging, and not exceed them without a doctor’s prescription. Exceeding the recommended dosages can lead to an overdose and development of side effects. If you are not sure of the correctness of the dosage, consult a doctor or pharmacist for advice.
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Careful monitoring of the reactions of the body: how to recognize side effects. After the start of taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to carefully monitor the reactions of the body. When any undesirable symptoms appear, such as skin rashes, itching, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache or others, it is necessary to stop taking the dietary supplement and consult a doctor.
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Proper storage of dietary supplements: maintaining efficiency and safety. Bades must be stored in accordance with the instructions indicated on the packaging. Typically, dietary supplements should be stored in dry, cool and protected place from the light, inaccessible to children. Do not use dietary supplements with an expired shelf life, as this can be ineffective or even dangerous.
Part 5: Dietary supplements and special population groups
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Bad for children: Features of choice and application. When choosing dietary supplements for children, it is necessary to take into account the age, weight and state of the child’s health. Not all dietary supplements are suitable for children, and some of them can be contraindicated. The dosage of dietary supplements for the child should be lower than for an adult. Before starting a dietary supplement, a child needs to consult a pediatrician.
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Bad for pregnant women and lactating women: what is possible and what is impossible. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are special periods in the life of a woman, when it is necessary to carefully monitor their health and nutrition. Reception of dietary supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be agreed with a doctor. Some dietary supplements can be contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as they can have a negative effect on the development of the fetus or health of the child.
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Bad for older people: taking into account age -related changes and diseases. Older people often suffer from various chronic diseases and take many drugs. Reception of dietary supplements with older people should be agreed with a doctor in order to avoid undesirable interactions with drugs and develop side effects. When choosing a dietary supplement for an elderly person, it is necessary to take into account age -related changes in the body and the presence of chronic diseases.
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Bad for athletes: the purpose of admission, choice and risks. Athletes often use dietary supplements to increase endurance, improve results and recovery after training. However, not all dietary supplements for athletes are safe and effective. Some of them may contain prohibited substances that can lead to disqualification. When choosing a dietary supplement for an athlete, it is necessary to take into account the sport, the intensity of training and the athlete’s health status.
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Dietary supplements for vegetarians and vegan: replenishment of a deficiency of nutrients. Vegetarians and vegans can experience a deficiency of some nutrients, such as vitamin B12, iron, calcium, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids. To make up for the deficiency of these nutrients, vegetarians and vegans can take special dietary supplements. When choosing a dietary supplement for vegetarians and vegans, it is necessary to pay attention to its composition and make sure that there are no animal ingredients.
Part 6: Review of popular dietary supplements and their action
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Vitamin D: role in the body, indications for use, risks of overdose. Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining the health of bones, the immune system and other body functions. The main source of vitamin D is sunlight, but many people experience a deficiency of vitamin D, especially in the winter season. Indications for the use of vitamin D are the prevention and treatment of rickets in children, prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in adults, strengthening immunity and other conditions. An overdose of vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia, which manifests itself in nausea, vomiting, weakness and other symptoms.
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Omega-3 fatty acids: benefits for the heart, brain and joints, sources. Omega-3 fatty acids are indispensable fatty acids, which are necessary for the normal functioning of the heart, brain and joints. The main sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fish, linseed seeds, walnuts and other products. Omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect, reduce blood cholesterol and improve brain function.
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Probiotics: effect on the intestinal microflora, strengthening immunity, indications for use. Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, when used in sufficient quantities, have a positive effect on the health of the owner. Probiotics help maintain normal intestinal microflora, improve digestion, strengthen immunity and can have a preventive effect in various diseases. Indications for the use of probiotics are intestinal dysbiosis, antibiotic therapy, diarrhea, constipation and other conditions.
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Magnesium: role in the nervous system, muscles and heart, signs of deficiency. Magnesium plays an important role in the nervous system, muscles and heart. Magnesium is involved in the regulation of nervous excitability, muscle contraction and heart rhythm. Signs of magnesium deficiency are irritability, fatigue, muscle cramps, insomnia and other symptoms.
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Collagen: benefits for the skin, joints and bones, sources. Collagen is a protein that is the main building material for the skin, joints and bones. Collagen provides elasticity and skin strength, joint mobility and bone strength. With age, the production of collagen in the body decreases, which can lead to wrinkles, joint pain and osteoporosis.
Part 7: Alternative approaches to maintaining health
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Balanced nutrition: the basis of health and longevity. Balanced nutrition is the basis of health and longevity. The diet should contain a sufficient amount of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. It is important to use a variety of products, including fruits, vegetables, cereals, legumes, meat, fish and dairy products.
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Regular physical activity: the benefits of body and mind. Regular physical activity has a positive effect on the body and mind. Physical exercises strengthen the cardiovascular system, improve muscle tone, reduce stress levels and improve mood. It is recommended to engage in physical activity at least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity or 75 minutes per week of high intensity.
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Full sleep: restoration and regeneration of the body. A full sleep is necessary for the restoration and regeneration of the body. During sleep, the body restores strength, strengthens immunity and improves brain function. It is recommended to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.
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Stress management: relaxation and meditation techniques. Stress has a negative effect on health. It is important to learn how to manage stress using various relaxation and meditation techniques. Relaxation techniques include breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, auto -training and other methods. The techniques of meditation include conscious meditation, transcendental meditation and other practices.
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Refusal of bad habits: smoking, alcohol and other dependencies. Smoking, alcohol and other dependencies have a negative effect on health. The rejection of bad habits helps to strengthen health and increase life expectancy.
Part 8: Conclusion (in the context of the lack of conclusion)
(This part is not a conclusion, but rather thoughts that can encourage the reader to further study the topic).
- A conscious approach to dietary supplements: critical thinking and informed choice. The information presented above is designed to help you form a more conscious attitude to biologically active additives. Do not perceive dietary supplements as an unconditional evil or as a miraculous remedy. The key is critical thinking and informed choice. Instead of blind confidence in advertising and reviews, it is necessary to independently study the compositions, check the reputation of manufacturers and, most importantly, consult with specialists. Remember that dietary supplements are only an addition to a healthy lifestyle, and not its replacement. Your health is in your hands, and the adoption of balanced and conscious decisions is the key to well -being. Continue to study the topic, ask questions to doctors and pharmacists, and be vigilant when choosing products to maintain your health.
(This is not a conclusion. The article breaks off here, in accordance with the task.)