Bad: an alternative to medicines or a waste of money?

Bad: an alternative to medicines or a waste of money? We understand the world of biologically active additives

I. What are dietary supplements and why are they popular?

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 in order to enrich the ration with individual food or biologically active substances and their complexes, as well as to maintain normal or improve the functional characteristics of the human body. The definition enshrined in Russian legislation emphasizes that dietary supplements are not medicines, namely food additives.

1.1. The composition and forms of the production of dietary supplements:

Bades are available in various forms: tablets, capsules, powders, extracts, syrups, teas, bars and even chewing gum. The composition of the dietary supplement can be extremely diverse, including:

• Vitamins: For example, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), vitamin D (cholegalciferol), B vitamins B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12), Vitamin A (Retinol), Vitamin E (Tokoferol), Vitamin K (Phillokhinon). Each of them performs specific functions in the body, from maintaining immunity to participation in metabolic processes.
• Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, iron, zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, chrome, iodine, molybdenum, phosphorus. Minerals are necessary for the construction of fabrics, maintaining an electrolyte balance, the work of enzymes and hormones.
• Amino acids: Building blocks of proteins necessary for the growth, restoration and maintenance of the body. There are replaceable and essential amino acids that should come with food or additives. Examples: Glycin, Taurin, L-Carnitin, Arginine, Glutamin, Valin, Leucine, Izolecin (BCAA).
• Plant extracts: Concentrated extracts from plants containing biologically active substances. Examples: ginseng extract, ginkgo biloba extract, echinacea extract, green tea extract, milk thistle extract, cranberry extract, rhodiola pink extract, turmeric extract. The action of plant extracts can vary from antioxidant to anti -inflammatory.
• Probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, when used in sufficient quantities, have a beneficial effect on the health of the owner. Prebiotics are substances that serve as food for probiotics and stimulate their growth and activity in the intestines. Both are important for maintaining a healthy intestinal microflora. Examples of probiotics: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum. Examples of prebiotics: Inulin, fructoligosaccharides (phos).
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Paul -saturated fatty acids that are important for the health of the heart, brain and joints. Contained in fish oil, linseed oil and other sources. The main types: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (non -ozagexaic acid).
• Enzymes: Substances that accelerate chemical reactions in the body. For example, digestive enzymes (amylase, protease, lipase) that help to break down food.
• Other biologically active substances: Coenzym Q10 (participates in energy production), chondroitin and glucosamine (support joint health), melatonin (regulates sleep), alpha-lipoic acid (antioxidant).

1.2. Causes of the popularity of dietary supplements:

The popularity of dietary supplements is due to several factors:

• The desire to strengthen health and prevent diseases: People are increasingly aware of the importance of a healthy lifestyle and look for ways to maintain their health. Bades are often perceived as a simple and affordable way to improve well -being and reduce the risk of diseases.
• Lack of nutrients in the diet: A modern diet is often unbalanced and poor nutrients. Bades can help replenish the deficiency of vitamins, minerals and other necessary substances. This is especially true for people who adhere to certain diets (vegetarianism, veganism) or having restrictions in nutrition.
• Marketing and commercials: Aggressive marketing and advertising of dietary supplements, promising miraculous effects, contribute to their popularity. Often, reviews of celebrities and success stories are used that convince people of the effectiveness of dietary supplements.
• Accessibility: Bades are easily available in pharmacies, healthy food stores, online stores and even supermarkets. They can be purchased without a doctor’s prescription, which makes them attractive to many people.
• Distrust of traditional medicine: Some people prefer dietary supplements to traditional medicines due to distrust of doctors or fears about the side effects of drugs.
• Self -medication: In an effort to independently solve health problems, people turn to dietary supplements, not always understanding their action and possible risks.
• Faith in nature: Bades are often positioned as natural products, which attracts people who strive for more natural methods of maintaining health.

II. Bad regulation: How is safety and efficiency ensured?

The regulation of dietary supplements differs significantly in different countries. In Russia and other countries of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), its own control and registration system has its own. It is important to understand that the lack of strict control can lead to the emergence of poor -quality and even dangerous products on the market.

2.1. Regulation of dietary supplements in Russia and the EAEU:

• Technical Regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 021/2011 “On food safety”: Establishes general safety requirements for food products, including dietary supplements.
• Technical Regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 022/2011 “Food products in terms of its marking”: It regulates the rules for marking food products, including dietary supplements, indicating the mandatory information about the composition, food value, manufacturer, etc.
• SanPiN 2.3.2.1290-03 “Hygienic requirements for the organization of production and turnover of biologically active additives to food (BAD)”: It contains requirements for the production, storage, transportation and sale of dietary supplements.
• State registration: All dietary supplements, before going on sale, must undergo state registration in Rospotrebnadzor. In the process of registration, the conformity of the product is checked, and information is also presented on the composition, properties and field of application.
• Examination: Before registering, dietary supplements undergo examination in accredited laboratories, where their safety and quality are evaluated. During the examination, safety indicators, such as the content of toxic elements, microbiological safety and radioactivity, are determined.
• Marking: The marking of dietary supplements should contain complete and reliable information about the product, including the composition, method of use, contraindications and shelf life. The label must indicate that this is a dietary supplement, not a drug.
• Control over turnover: Rospotrebnadzor monitors the turnover of dietary supplements, conducting inspections of manufacturing enterprises and sellers, as well as selecting products for laboratory research.

2.2. Regulation problems:

Despite the existing regulatory system, there are problems:

• The difficulty of monitoring the composition: It is not always possible to completely control the composition of the dietary supplements, especially those that are produced abroad. Cases of falsification and adding prohibited substances may occur.
• The deficiency of the evidence base: For many dietary supplements, there is no sufficient scientific evidence base confirming their effectiveness. Many statements about the benefits are based on marketing, not scientific research.
• Weak responsibility of manufacturers: The responsibility of manufacturers for non -compliance with safety requirements and for inaccurate information on the label is often insufficient.
• Swims in the legislation: In the legislation regulating the turnover of dietary supplements, there are gaps that allow unscrupulous manufacturers to bypass the requirements.
• Difficulties with control over Internet sales: It is more difficult to control the sale of dietary supplements through online stores than through pharmacies and shops. On the Internet, it is easier to meet fakes and poor -quality products.
• Lack of single standards: The absence of uniform quality and safety standards for dietary supplements in different countries creates problems in international trade and can lead to the emergence of low -quality products in the market.

2.3. Regulation in other countries:

• USA: Dietary supplements are regulated by the sanitary supervision of the quality of food and medicines (FDA), but less strictly than drugs. Dad manufacturers are not required to prove the effectiveness of their products before the market, but are responsible for the safety of their products and for the reliability of information on the label.
• European Union: The regulation of dietary supplements in the EU varies in different member countries. There are general rules for labeling and security, but each country has the right to establish its own requirements for composition and dosage. The European Nutrition Safety Agency (EFSA) assesses the safety of food additives, including dietary supplements.
• Canada: Dietary supplements are regulated by the Ministry of Health of Canada (Health Canada) and must undergo a licensing procedure before launching on the market. Manufacturers should provide evidence of the safety and efficiency of their products.
• Australia: Bades are regulated by the management of therapeutic goods (TGA) and should be registered in the Australian register of therapeutic goods (ARTG). Manufacturers should provide evidence of the safety and efficiency of their products.

III. When can diet be useful?

Despite the fact that dietary supplements are not medicines, in certain situations they can be useful for maintaining health and prevention of diseases. It is important to understand that dietary supplements should only after consulting a doctor and if there are specific indications.

3.1. Nutrient deficiency:

• Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency is common, especially in regions with a lack of sunlight. Reception of additives with vitamin D can be useful for maintaining bone health, immunity and overall well -being. This is especially important for older people and people with dark skin.
• Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 is mainly found in animal products. Vegetarians and vegans are recommended to take additives with vitamin B12 to prevent deficiency, which can lead to neurological disorders and anemia.
• Iron: Iron deficiency is a common problem, especially in women during menstruation and pregnancy. Reception of iron additives can be useful for treating iron deficiency anemia and improving overall well -being. However, the use of iron preparations should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor, since an excess of iron can be harmful.
• Calcium: Calcium is necessary for the health of bones and teeth. Older people, women during menopause and people with osteoporosis are recommended to take calcium additives to maintain bone health. It is also important to take into account that vitamin D. is necessary for the absorption of calcium.
• Folic acid: Folic acid (vitamin B9) is especially important for women planning pregnancy or in early pregnancy. Taking additives with folic acid reduces the risk of developing defects in the nerve tube in the fetus.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the health of the heart, brain and joints. For people who do not consume enough fish, it is recommended to take additives with omega-3 fatty acids.

3.2. Conditions requiring additional support:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the need for certain vitamins and minerals increases. The doctor can recommend taking special vitamin-mineral complexes for pregnant and lactating women.
• Elderly age: With age, the absorption of nutrients worsens. Elderly people can be useful to take vitamin D, calcium, vitamin B12 and other nutrients.
• Intensive physical activity: Athletes and people involved in intensive physical exertion increases the need for certain nutrients, such as protein, amino acids, B vitamins and minerals. Reception of specialized sports additives can help improve results and accelerate recovery.
• Chronic diseases: In some chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the absorption of nutrients may be disturbed. The doctor may recommend taking certain dietary supplements to maintain health and compensate for the feed deficiency.
• Recovery after illness or operation: During the recovery period after illness or surgery, the body requires more nutrients to restore tissues and strengthen immunity. The doctor can recommend taking vitamins, minerals and amino acids to accelerate the recovery process.

3.3. Prevention of diseases:

• Probiotics: Probiotics can be useful for maintaining the health of intestinal microflora and the prevention of dysbiosis. They can also help improve digestion, strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of developing certain diseases.
• Antioxidants: Antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium and coenzyme Q10, can help protect the cells from damage to free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, alzheimer’s cancer and disease.
• Plant extracts: Some plant extracts, such as green tea extract, turmeric extract and milk thistle extract, have antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties and can be useful for the prevention of various diseases.

IV. Risks and side effects of dietary supplements:

Despite potential benefits, dietary supplements can represent certain risks and cause side effects. It is important to know about possible risks before starting dietary supplements and always consult a doctor.

4.1. Interaction with drugs:

Bades can interact with medicines by changing their effectiveness or increasing side effects. Some interactions can be dangerous to health.

• Anticoagulants (drugs that thinning blood): Some dietary supplements, such as vitamin E, garlic, ginkgo biloba and fish oil, can enhance the effect of anticoagulants and increase the risk of bleeding.
• Antidepressants: St. John’s wort can interact with antidepressants, reducing their effectiveness or causing side effects.
• Broadcasting tablets: St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of contraceptive tablets, increasing the risk of unwanted pregnancy.
• Preparations for reduction of cholesterol (statins): Red yeast rice containing Monacoline K can enhance the side effects of statins, such as muscle pain and liver damage.
• Diabetes treatment drugs: Some dietary supplements, such as chrome and ginseng, can affect blood sugar and change the need for diabetes treatment.
• Antitumor drugs: Some antioxidants can reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapy.

4.2. Inaccurate information on the label:

The composition of the dietary supplements indicated on the label does not always correspond to reality. Cases of falsification, the addition of prohibited substances and overstating or underestimation of dosages may occur.

• Forbidden substances: In some dietary supplements, especially intended for losing weight or increasing sports results, there may be prohibited substances, such as stimulants, hormones and anabolic steroids. These substances can be dangerous to health and cause serious side effects.
• Heavy metals: Some dietary supplements, especially made of plant materials, may contain heavy metals, such as lead, mercury and cadmium. Long -term exposure to heavy metals can lead to toxic effects and the development of diseases.
• Microorganisms: Some dietary supplements may contain pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and viruses. The use of such dietary supplements can lead to infectious diseases.

4.3. Side effects:

Bades can cause various side effects, such as:

• Digestive disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bloating and abdominal pain.
• Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema and anaphylactic shock.
• Headache and dizziness.
• Insomnia.
• Increased blood pressure.
• Charp heartbeat.
• Disorders of the liver and kidneys.

4.4. Overdose:

Reception of dietary supplements in high doses can lead to an overdose and development of toxic effects. An overdose of fat -soluble vitamins (a, d, e, k) and minerals, such as iron and copper, is especially dangerous.

4.5. Lack of quality control:

Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not undergo strict quality control. This means that the composition, efficiency and safety of dietary supplements can vary depending on the manufacturer and the party.

4.6. Self -medication and rejection of traditional medicine:

The use of dietary supplements for self -medication can lead to postponing a doctor and a worsening state of health. The rejection of traditional medicine in favor of dietary supplements can be life -threatening, especially with serious diseases.

V. How to choose dietary supplements?

The choice of dietary supplements is a responsible process that requires an attentive approach. To avoid risks and get maximum benefit, you should adhere to the following recommendations:

5.1. Consultation with a doctor:

Before taking any dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will be able to evaluate your health status, identify possible contraindications and choose the optimal dietary supplement, taking into account your individual needs.

5.2. The selection of the manufacturer:

Preference should be given to dietary supplements of famous and reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation in the market and comply with quality standards. Look for companies that conduct independent laboratory studies of their products.

5.3. Study of the composition:

Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement indicated on the label. Make sure that there are no ingredients for which you have an allergy or individual intolerance to the composition. Avoid dietary supplements with a large number of artificial additives, dyes and preservatives.

5.4. Certificate check:

Make sure that the dietary supplement has the necessary quality certificates and is registered in the prescribed manner. In Russia, this means the presence of a certificate of state registration (SGR) issued by Rospotrebnadzor.

5.5. Dosage rating:

Follow the recommended dosage indicated on the label. Do not exceed the dosage without consulting a doctor.

5.6. Reviews analysis:

Before buying Bad, it is useful to read the reviews of other consumers. However, one should be critical of reviews, as they can be subjective or even custom.

5.7. Buying in reliable places:

Buy dietary supplements in pharmacies, specialized healthy food stores or trusted Internet seller. Avoid buying dietary supplements from dubious suppliers or on sites offering suspiciously low prices.

5.8. Best before date:

Always check the shelf life of the dietary supplement before buying and using. Do not use dietary supplements with an expired shelf life.

5.9. Storage conditions:

Follow the storage conditions indicated on the label. Keep dietary supplements in dry, cool and protected place.

5.10. Attention to advertising:

Critically treat advertising promises. Do not believe statements about the miraculous properties of dietary supplements and do not use them to treat serious diseases without consulting a doctor.

VI. Alternative approaches to health promotion:

It is important to remember that dietary supplements are not panacea and cannot replace a healthy lifestyle. To strengthen the health and prevention of diseases, it is necessary to adhere to a balanced diet, engage in physical activity, avoid bad habits and regularly undergo medical examinations.

6.1. Balanced nutrition:

Balanced nutrition is the basis of health. The diet should have all the necessary nutrients: proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Use a variety of products from different groups: fruits, vegetables, cereals, legumes, meat, fish, dairy products.

6.2. Physical activity:

Regular physical exercises help strengthen the cardiovascular system, improve metabolism, increase immunity and reduce the risk of developing many diseases. Physical activity of at least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity or 75 minutes per week of high intensity.

6.3. Healthy sleep:

A sufficient dream is necessary to restore the body and maintain health. Sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.

6.4. Avoiding bad habits:

The rejection of smoking, alcohol abuse and other bad habits is of great importance to health.

6.5. Stress management:

Chronic stress can negatively affect health. Learn to manage stress using relaxation techniques, meditation, yoga or other methods.

6.6. Regular medical examinations:

Regular medical examinations help identify diseases at an early stage and start treatment in a timely manner.

6.7. Alternative treatment methods:

In some cases, alternative methods of treatment, such as herbal medicine, acupuncture and homeopathy, can be useful for maintaining health. However, before using alternative methods of treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

In conclusion, dietary supplements can be a useful addition to a healthy lifestyle, but are not a replacement for medicines or a balanced diet. It is important to remember the possible risks and side effects of dietary supplements and always consult a doctor before taking them.