Bades and vitamins: a consultation with a doctor before admission

Chapter 1: Understanding of dietary supplements and vitamins – basics and classification

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) and vitamins, despite their widespread and apparent harmlessness, require careful consideration before the start of admission. It is not enough just to see advertising or read a positive review; It is necessary to understand their nature, classification, potential risks and interaction with other substances.

1.1 What is dietary supplements?

Bades are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances intended for direct intake with food or introduction into food products. They are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Their main goal is to replenish the deficiency of nutrients, maintaining the normal functioning of the body and the prevention of certain conditions. It is important to note that the regulation of dietary supplements is significantly different from the regulation of drugs. The requirements for evidence -based efficiency and safety for dietary supplements are less strict, which creates a risk of low -quality or even dangerous products on the market.

1.2 Classification of dietary supplements:

Bades are classified according to various criteria, including the composition, form of release and the alleged action.

By composition:
- Nutricevtiki: They contain the necessary nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3, omega-6), dietary fiber. Examples: vitamin C, fish oil, fiber.
- Parafarmetzetics: They have a preventive, auxiliary effect in various diseases, and also support the functional activity of organs and systems. Examples: extracts of medicinal plants, probiotics, prebiotics, antioxidants.
- Probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotics contain live microorganisms that are useful for intestinal microflora. Prebiotics are substances that serve as food for these microorganisms. Together they contribute to the normalization of digestion and strengthening immunity.
By the form of release:
- Tablets: Convenient in use and dosage.
- Capsules: May contain liquid or powder substances, provide the best bioavailability of some components.
- Powders: Dissolve in water or other liquids. Suitable for people who have difficulty swallowing tablets.
- Liquid forms (solutions, syrups): Easily dosed and absorbed.
- Bats, chewing sweets: More convenient for consumption on the go, but may contain added sugar and other undesirable ingredients.
According to the alleged action:
- To strengthen immunity: Contain vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, echinacea and other components.
- To improve digestion: Contain probiotics, prebiotics, dietary fiber, enzymes.
- To maintain the health of the cardiovascular system: Contain omega-3 fatty acids, coenzyme Q10, magnesium.
- To improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails: Contain vitamins of group B, biotin, collagen, zinc.
- To increase energy and endurance: Contain ginseng, eleutherococcus, l-carnitine.
- To reduce weight: They contain fiber, chrome, green tea extract, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA).

1.3 What are vitamins?

Vitamins are organic compounds necessary for the normal life of the body in small quantities. They are not synthesized in the body (or synthesized in insufficient quantities) and should come with food or in the form of additives. Vitamins are involved in many biochemical reactions, regulate metabolism, support immunity and ensure the normal operation of organs and systems.

1.4 Classification of vitamins:

Vitamins are divided into two main groups: fat -soluble and water -soluble.

Fat -soluble vitamins: Vitamins A, D, E, K. They dissolve in fats and accumulate in the body, so their excess can lead to hypervitaminosis. They are better absorbed when consumed with fatty foods.
Water -soluble vitamins: Vitamins of group B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B12) and Vitamin C. They dissolve in water and do not accumulate in the body in significant quantities, so their excess is usually excreted in the urine. However, the long -term use of high doses of some water -soluble vitamins can also cause side effects.

1.5 The importance of consulting with a doctor:

The independent purpose of dietary supplements and vitamins can lead to undesirable consequences, especially in the presence of chronic diseases, taking drugs and pregnancy. Consultation with a doctor is necessary for:

Determining individual needs: The doctor takes into account the age, gender, state of health, lifestyle and test results to determine whether you need dietary supplements and vitamins.
Selection of suitable products: The market presents a huge selection of dietary supplements and vitamins, and the doctor will help you choose the most effective and safe products, taking into account your individual needs and features.
Determining the optimal dosage: The doctor will determine the optimal dosage of dietary supplements and vitamins to avoid overdose and side effects.
Identifying possible contraindications and interactions: The doctor will take into account your chronic diseases and medications taken to identify possible contraindications and interactions with dietary supplements and vitamins.
Monitoring of efficiency and safety: The doctor will monitor the effectiveness and safety of taking dietary supplements and vitamins in order to adjust the dosage in time or stop taking it if necessary.

Chapter 2: Arguments for “and” against “reception of dietary supplements and vitamins – objective analysis

Making a decision on the reception of dietary supplements and vitamins is a complex process that requires weighing all the pros and cons. Rely only on advertising or opinions of acquaintances is not enough; It is necessary to critically evaluate the information and take into account individual circumstances.

2.1 Arguments “For” reception of dietary supplements and vitamins:

Filling a deficiency of nutrients: A modern diet often does not provide the body with all the necessary vitamins and minerals. The disadvantage of nutrients can be associated with poor -quality products, improper food treatment, unbalanced nutrition, diets, stress, diseases and other factors. Bades and vitamins can help fill the deficit and maintain the normal functioning of the body.
Maintaining health and prevention of diseases: Some dietary supplements and vitamins have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating properties that can help protect the body from various diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases.
Improving physical and mental performance: Some dietary supplements and vitamins can increase energy, improve attention concentration, memory and mood. They can be useful for people involved in sports, mental work or experiencing stress.
Support for the body in special periods of life: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, elderly age are periods when the body needs an increased amount of certain nutrients. Bades and vitamins can help satisfy these needs and support the health of the mother and child.
Auxiliary remedy for the treatment of certain diseases: In some cases, dietary supplements and vitamins can be used as an aid in the treatment of certain diseases, for example, with osteoporosis, anemia, depression and other conditions. However, they should not replace the main treatment prescribed by the doctor.

2.2 Arguments “against” admission of dietary supplements and vitamins:

Lack of strict regulation and quality control: Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not undergo strict quality control and efficiency. This means that there may be products containing incorrect dosages, pollutants or not containing declared ingredients on the market. The risk of acquiring a poor -quality or dangerous product is quite high.
Unproven effectiveness: The effectiveness of many dietary supplements has not been proven in clinical research. Some studies show positive results, but others do not confirm them. It is important to critically evaluate the information and not believe blindly advertising.
Possible side effects: Some dietary supplements and vitamins can cause side effects, such as digestive disorder, allergic reactions, headaches and other unpleasant symptoms. An overdose of some vitamins can lead to serious health problems.
Interaction with drugs: Bades and vitamins can interact with drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect, as well as increasing the risk of side effects. It is important to inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements and vitamins in order to avoid undesirable interactions.
High cost: Some dietary supplements and vitamins can be quite expensive, and their reception can significantly increase health costs. Before buying expensive dietary supplements, it is worthwhile to verify its need and effectiveness.
Masks of serious health problems: Reception of dietary supplements and vitamins can create a false sense of well -being and disguise the symptoms of serious diseases. It is important not to self -medicate and consult a doctor in a timely manner when an alarming symptoms appear.

2.3 Critical analysis of information:

When making a decision on taking dietary supplements and vitamins, it is important to critically evaluate the information obtained from various sources. You should pay attention to:

Source reliability: Preference should be given to information received from authoritative medical organizations, doctors and scientists. Do not trust advertising, reviews on the Internet and unverified sources.
The availability of evidence of efficiency and safety: Before buying dietary supplements, you must make sure that scientific evidence of its effectiveness and safety. The results of clinical studies published in the reviewed medical journals should be sought.
Compliance with information to your individual needs: You should not blindly copy recommendations for other people. Each organism is individual, and the needs for nutrients can vary greatly. It is important to take into account the age, gender, state of health, lifestyle and other factors.

Chapter 3: Consultation with a doctor – key questions and preparation

Consulting with a doctor is an important step before taking any dietary supplements and vitamins. It allows you to get individual recommendations based on your state of health, lifestyle and needs. In order for the consultation to be as effective as possible, it is necessary to properly prepare and ask the doctor important questions.

3.1 Preparation for the consultation:

Collect information about your health: Prepare a list of all chronic diseases, surgery, allergies and medications taken (including dosage and administration). It is also useful to recall your usual symptoms, complaints and sensations.
Write down the questions that you want to ask a doctor: In order not to forget important questions during the consultation, it is recommended to make a list in advance. This will help you get the most complete information and make a balanced decision.
Take a list of dietary supplements and vitamins that you accept or plan to accept: This will help the doctor evaluate potential interactions and risks. If you have packages of dietary supplements and vitamins, take them with you.
Be honest with the doctor: It is important to provide the doctor with complete and reliable information about his health and lifestyle. Feel free to ask questions and share your fears.

3.2 Key questions to the doctor:

Do I need dietary supplements and vitamins? Specify whether you have a shortage of any nutrients and what products you should take in order to fill it.
What dietary supplements and vitamins suit me? Ask the doctor what specific products you should accept, taking into account your individual needs and features. Specify the name, dosage and form of release.
What is the optimal dosage and reception mode? Ask the doctor how to properly take dietary supplements and vitamins to get maximum benefit and avoid side effects. Clarify the time of admission, duration of the course and the need for breaks.
Do I have contraindications to the reception of these dietary supplements and vitamins? It is important to find out if you have any chronic diseases or allergies that may be a contraindication for taking certain dietary supplements and vitamins.
Can these dietary supplements and vitamins interact with my medicines? Find out if your dietary supplements and vitamins can interact with drugs and how to avoid undesirable interactions.
What side effects can occur? Ask the doctor about possible side effects associated with the use of dietary supplements and vitamins, and what to do in case of their occurrence.
How long do I need to take these dietary supplements and vitamins? Check the duration of the course of admission and the need for breaks. Ask if you will need to be repeatedly taken in the future.
How can I track the effectiveness and safety of admission? Ask the doctor how you can track the effectiveness and safety of taking dietary supplements and vitamins, and when you should consult a doctor for re -consultation.
What alternative options exist? Find out whether there are alternative ways to replenish the deficiency of nutrients, for example, a change in the diet or lifestyle.
What tests do I need to hand over before the reception? Ask a doctor what tests you need to take to determine the presence of a feed of nutrients and evaluate the state of your health.

3.3 The value of trusting relationships with the doctor:

It is important to establish a trusting relationship with a doctor in order to feel comfortable when discussing health issues and receiving recommendations. If you are not confident in the competence of a doctor or do not feel comfortable, you should look for another specialist. A qualified and attentive doctor will help you make a balanced decision to receive dietary supplements and vitamins, taking into account your individual needs and features.

Chapter 4: Analyzes and research – determining the need to receive dietary supplements and vitamins

Before starting to take dietary supplements and vitamins, you need to verify their need. An independent purpose based on advertising or the advice of acquaintances can be not only ineffective, but also dangerous. Analyzes and studies allow to objectively assess the condition of the body and identify a deficiency of nutrients.

4.1 The need for tests:

Analyzes allow you to get information about:

Level of vitamins and minerals in the body: This allows you to determine if you have a deficiency of any nutrients.
State of organs and systems: Some tests can identify diseases that can be associated with a deficiency of nutrients or influence their absorption.
Digestive system functions: Analyzes can help evaluate how well your body assimilates nutrients from food.
The presence of inflammatory processes: Inflammation can affect the absorption of nutrients and increase the need for certain vitamins and minerals.

4.2 Main tests and research:

General blood test (UAC): Allows you to evaluate the general state of health, identify anemia, inflammatory processes and other deviations. It includes the determination of the level of hemoglobin, red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and other indicators.
Biochemical blood test: Allows you to evaluate the function of the liver, kidneys, pancreas and other organs. It includes the determination of the level of glucose, cholesterol, bilirubin, creatinine, urea, amylase, lipase and other indicators.
Analysis for vitamin D: Determining the level of vitamin D in the blood allows you to identify its deficiency, which is a common problem in many regions.
Vitamin B12 Analysis: Determining the level of vitamin B12 in the blood allows you to identify its deficiency, which can lead to anemia and neurological disorders.
Analysis on folic acid (vitamin B9): Determining the level of folic acid in the blood allows you to identify its deficiency, especially important for women planning pregnancy.
Iron analysis: Includes the determination of the level of iron, ferritin, transferrin and the total iron -binding capacity of serum (OHSSS). Allows you to identify iron deficiency and anemia.
Zinc Analysis: The determination of the level of zinc in the blood allows you to identify its deficiency, which can affect immunity, wound healing and other body functions.
Magnesium analysis: The determination of the level of magnesium in the blood allows you to identify its deficiency, which can lead to muscle cramps, fatigue and other symptoms.
Urine analysis: Allows you to evaluate the function of the kidneys and identify the presence of urinary tract infections.
Coprogram: Calais analysis allows you to evaluate the function of the digestive system and identify the presence of dysbiosis, inflammatory processes and other deviations.
Analysis on intestinal dysbiosis: Allows you to evaluate the composition of the intestinal microflora and identify disorders of the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria.

4.3 Interpretation of test results:

The interpretation of the results of the analyzes should be carried out by a doctor. He will take into account your individual characteristics, health status and results of other studies in order to diagnose and prescribe treatment or give recommendations for receiving dietary supplements and vitamins. Do not independently interpret the test results and self -medicate.

4.4 Additional studies:

In some cases, additional studies may be required, such as:

Ultrasound of the abdominal organs: Allows you to assess the condition of the liver, gall bladder, pancreas, spleen and other organs.
Gastroscopy: Endoscopic examination of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.
Colonoscopy: Endoscopic examination of the colon.
Tissue biopsy: Taking a sample of fabric for research under a microscope.

4.5 The importance of an individual approach:

There is no universal set of tests suitable for all people. The doctor must prescribe tests individually, given your symptoms, anamnesis and risk factors. It is important to trust the doctor and follow his recommendations.

Chapter 5: The choice of dietary supplements and vitamins – quality and security criteria

The choice of dietary supplements and vitamins is a responsible process that requires an attentive approach. A huge number of products are presented on the market, and not all of them meet quality and safety requirements. To avoid acquiring a poor -quality or dangerous product, it is necessary to be guided by certain criteria.

5.1 Criteria qualities:

The presence of a quality certificate: Pay attention to the availability of a certificate of conformity (for example, GMP – Good Manoufacturing Practice). The certificate confirms that the manufacturer complies with quality standards in the production of dietary supplements and vitamins.
Reputation manufacturer: Give preference to manufacturers with a good reputation that have been working on the market for a long time and have positive consumer reviews. Study information about the manufacturer on the Internet, read reviews on independent sites.
Product composition: Carefully study the composition of the product. Make sure that it contains only the necessary ingredients and there are no harmful additives, such as artificial dyes, flavors, preservatives and GMOs. Pay attention to the dosage of active substances.
Output form: Choose the form of release, which is most convenient for you and suitable. Some forms of release can provide the best bioavailability of certain components.
Best before date: Pay attention to the expiration date of the product. Do not buy dietary supplements and vitamins with an expired shelf life.
Package: The packaging should be sealed and protect the product from exposure to light, moisture and air. Pay attention to the integrity of the package.

5.2 Security criteria:

Lack of contraindications: Make sure that you have no contraindications to receive this dietary supplement or vitamin. Consult a doctor if you have any chronic diseases or allergies.
Lack of interactions with drugs: Find out if this dietary supplement or vitamin with drugs that you take interacts. Consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Low risk of side effects: Choose dietary supplements and vitamins with a low risk of side effects. Pay attention to consumer reviews and scientific research.
Lack of toxic substances: Make sure that dietary supplement or vitamin does not contain toxic substances, such as heavy metals, pesticides and other pollutants. Choose products from trusted manufacturers.

5.3 Where to buy dietary supplements and vitamins:

It is recommended to buy dietary supplements and vitamins in pharmacies or specialized stores where you can get a specialist consultation and check the authenticity of the product. Do not buy dietary supplements and vitamins on dubious sites or from unverified sellers.

5.4 Reading the label:

Read the product label carefully. The following information should be indicated on the label:

Product name:
Product composition:
Dosage of active substances:
Output form:
Method of application:
Contraindications:
Side effects:
Best before date:
Storage conditions:
Information about the manufacturer:
The number of the certificate of state registration (SGR):

5.5 Independent examination:

There are independent organizations that conduct an examination of dietary supplements and vitamins and publish the results of their research. Before buying a product, you can familiarize yourself with the results of an independent examination in order to verify its quality and security.

Chapter 6: Risks of self -medication of dietary supplements and vitamins are negative consequences

Self -medication of dietary supplements and vitamins, without preliminary consultation with a doctor and conducting the necessary tests, can lead to serious negative health consequences. Despite the apparent harmlessness of these products, their improper use can harm the body.

6.1 overdose:

An overdose of vitamins, especially fat -soluble (a, d, e, k), can lead to hypervitaminosis, which is manifested by various symptoms, depending on vitamin:

Hypervitaminosis A: Nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, hair loss, dry skin, bone pain and joints, increased liver and spleen.
Hypervitaminosis D: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, weakness, pain in bones and joints, impaired renal function, increasing the level of calcium in the blood.
Hypervitaminosis is: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, blood coagulation.
Hypervitaminosis to: Increased blood coagulation, thrombosis risk.

An overdose of minerals can also be dangerous. For example, an overdose of iron can lead to damage to the liver and other organs.

6.2 Interaction with drugs:

Bades and vitamins can interact with drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect, as well as increasing the risk of side effects. For example:

Vitamin K: It can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants (drugs that thin blood).
Vitamin E: It can enhance the effect of anticoagulants and increase the risk of bleeding.
St. John’s wort: It can reduce the effectiveness of many drugs, including antidepressants, contraceptive tablets and immunosuppressants.
Grapefruit juice: It can interact with many drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect.

6.3 Masks of serious health problems:

Self -medication of dietary supplements and vitamins can create a false sense of well -being and disguise the symptoms of serious diseases. For example, taking iron-containing drugs can hide anemia caused by bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. As a result, the disease can be detected at a late stage when treatment is more complex and less effective.

6.4 Allergic reactions:

Bades and vitamins can cause allergic reactions, which are manifested by various symptoms such as skin rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema and anaphylactic shock. Allergic reactions can be caused by both active substances and auxiliary components, such as dyes, flavors and preservatives.

6.5 Inaccurate information and ineffective products:

There are many dietary supplements and vitamins on the market, the effectiveness of which has not been proven in clinical research. Consumers are often misleading by advertising and reviews on the Internet and buy ineffective products, spending money. In some cases, products may not contain the declared ingredients at all or contain them in insufficient quantities.

6.6 Lack of quality control:

Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not undergo strict quality control. This means that on the market there may be products containing pollutants, such as heavy metals, pesticides and microorganisms. The use of such products can harm health.

6.7 Psychological dependence:

Some people become psychologically dependent on dietary supplements and vitamins and believe that they cannot function normally without them. This can lead to excessive consumption of these products and the development of various side effects.

Chapter 7: Bades and vitamins for different age groups – individual needs

The needs for vitamins and minerals vary depending on the age, gender, state of health and lifestyle. What is useful for one person can be ineffective or even harmful to another. It is important to consider the individual needs of each age group when choosing dietary supplements and vitamins.

7.1 Children and adolescents:

Children and adolescents need sufficient vitamins and minerals for normal growth and development. Especially important:

Vitamin D: It is necessary for the formation of bones and teeth, as well as to strengthen immunity.
Calcium: It is necessary for the growth and strengthening of bones.
Iron: It is necessary for the prevention of anemia.
Vitamin C: It is necessary to strengthen immunity.
B vitamins B: It is necessary for the normal operation of the nervous system and metabolism.

However, do not give children dietary supplements and vitamins without prior consultation with a doctor. An overdose of vitamins and minerals can be dangerous for children.

7.2 adults:

Adults also need sufficient vitamins and minerals to maintain health and prevent diseases. The needs for vitamins and minerals can vary depending on gender, age, state of health and lifestyle. Especially important:

Vitamin D: It is necessary to maintain bones and immunity health.
Calcium: It is necessary to maintain bone health.
Magnesium: It is necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and muscles.
B vitamins B: It is necessary for the normal operation of the nervous system and metabolism.
Omega-3 fatty acids: It is necessary to maintain the health of the cardiovascular system and brain.

Women of childbearing age are especially important folic acid to prevent defects in the nervous tube in the fetus.

7.3 Elderly people:

Elderly people often have increased needs for vitamins and minerals due to a decrease in appetite, deterioration in the absorption of nutrients and the presence of chronic diseases. Especially important:

Vitamin D: It is necessary to maintain the health of bones and muscles, as well as for the prevention of falls.
Vitamin B12: It is necessary for the normal operation of the nervous system and the prevention of anemia.
Calcium: It is necessary to maintain bones health and prevent osteoporosis.
Zinc: It is necessary to maintain immunity and healing of wounds.
Omega-3 fatty acids: It is necessary to maintain the health of the cardiovascular system and brain.

It is also important for older people to monitor sufficient consumption of fluid and fiber to maintain normal intestinal operation.

7.4 Pregnant and lactating women:

Pregnant and lactating women need an increased amount of vitamins and minerals for the normal development of the fetus and child. Especially important:

Folic acid: It is necessary for the prevention of defects in the nervous tube in the fetus.
Iron: It is necessary for the prevention of anemia.
Calcium: It is necessary for the formation of bones and teeth in the fetus.
Vitamin D: It is necessary for the formation of bones and teeth in the fetus, as well as to maintain the health of the mother.
Omega-3 fatty acids: It is necessary for the normal development of the brain and vision in the fetus.
Iodine: It is necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland in the mother and the fetus.

Pregnant and lactating women need to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements and vitamins.

7.5 athletes:

Athletes need an increased amount of vitamins and minerals due to increased physical activity and loss of nutrients with later. Especially important:

B vitamins B: It is necessary for energy exchange and normal operation of the nervous system.
Vitamin C: It is necessary to strengthen immunity and protection against free radicals.
Vitamin E: It is necessary to protect against free radicals.
Magnesium: It is necessary for normal muscle operation.
Calcium: It is necessary to maintain bone health.
Iron: It is necessary for the prevention of anemia.
Zinc: It is necessary to maintain immunity and healing of wounds.

It is also important for athletes to monitor sufficient consumption of protein and carbohydrates to restore muscles and make up for energy reserves.

Chapter 8: Integrative approach – dietary supplements and vitamins in the context of a healthy lifestyle

Bades and vitamins are not panacea and cannot replace a healthy lifestyle. They should be considered as an addition to a balanced diet, regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep and stress. An integrative approach to health involves a comprehensive effect on the body, taking into account all aspects of life.

8.1 Balanced food:

A balanced diet is the basis of health and provides the body with all the necessary nutrients. The diet should include a sufficient amount of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, protein and healthy fats. The consumption of processed products, sugar, salt and saturated fats should be limited