Bades: hidden ingredients and risks – deep analysis
Section 1: What is 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. They are not medicines and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Rather, they are positioned as a means of maintaining health, improving well -being, compensating for nutrient deficiency and increasing the body’s resistance to adverse environmental factors.
The popularity of dietary supplements is growing from year to year. Several factors contribute to this:
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Increasing interest in a healthy lifestyle: People are increasingly aware of the importance of proper nutrition and physical activity to maintain health. Bades are perceived as a simple and affordable way to improve your diet and make up for a deficiency of necessary substances.
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Aggressive marketing campaign: Manufacturers of dietary supplements are actively promoting their products using various advertising channels, including television, Internet and print media. Often advertising promises miraculous effects that are not confirmed by scientific research.
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Lack of time to cook healthy food: The modern rhythm of life does not always allows you to devote enough time to the preparation of a balanced diet. Bades are perceived as a convenient alternative to full nutrition.
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Self -medication: Many people use dietary supplements for self -medication without seeing a doctor. They believe in the healing properties of additives and hope to get rid of various diseases without the use of traditional medicine.
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Weak regulation of the market of baskets: The regulation of the market of dietary supplements is much weaker than the drug market. This allows manufacturers to produce products of dubious quality and efficiency to the market, as well as use aggressive promotion methods.
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Accessibility: Bades are sold in pharmacies, specialized stores, via the Internet, and even in supermarkets, which makes them easily accessible for a wide range of consumers.
Despite the growing popularity, it is important to understand that dietary supplements are not a panacea. They can be useful in certain situations, but can also pose a danger to health, especially if you use it. It is necessary to carefully study the composition and properties of dietary supplements, as well as consult a doctor before their use.
Section 2: Classification of dietary supplements: types and purpose
Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are an extensive category of products that can be classified according to various signs, such as the composition, form of release, purpose and effect on the body. Understanding these classifications helps consumers better navigate in the variety of additives presented in the market and make a conscious choice.
2.1. Classification by composition:
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Nutricevtiki: These dietary supplements are a source of vital food substances, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3, omega-6), dietary fiber and others. They are designed to compensate for the deficiency of these substances in the diet. Examples: vitamin-mineral complexes, fish oil, fiber.
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Parafarmetzetics: These dietary supplements have a more pronounced physiological effect on the body and are used to prevent various diseases, maintaining the functions of organs and systems, increasing the body’s resistance to adverse factors. They often include plant extracts, beekeeping products, microorganisms and other biologically active substances. Examples: Echinacea for immunity, probiotics for improving digestion, ginkgo bilobe to improve memory.
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Probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotics are living microorganisms (most often bacteria), which, if you enter the body in sufficient quantities have a beneficial effect on health. Prebiotics are substances that are not digested in the upper sections of the gastrointestinal tract, but serve as food for useful bacteria, contributing to their growth and reproduction. Examples: lactobacilli, bifidobacteria, inulin.
2.2. Classification in the form of release:
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Tablets: Convenient and common form of release, providing an accurate dosage.
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Capsules: Allowed to conclude substances with an unpleasant taste or smell in a gelatin shell. Quickly dissolve in the stomach.
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Powders: Used to cook drinks or added to food. They allow you to easily adjust the dosage.
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Liquids (solutions, syrups, tinctures): It is convenient for children and people who have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules.
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Bars: Often contain vitamins, minerals and protein. Convenient for a snack on the go.
2.3. Classification by purpose:
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For immunity: Contain substances that stimulate the immune system (vitamin C, echinacea, zinc).
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For digestion: Contain enzymes, probiotics, prebiotics, dietary fiber (fiber).
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For the heart and blood vessels: Contain omega-3 fatty acids, coenzyme Q10, magnesium, potassium.
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For the nervous system: Contain vitamins of group B, magnesium, glycine, extracts of herbs (valerian, motherwort).
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For joints and bones: Contain glucosamine, chondroitin, calcium, vitamin D.
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For beauty (skin, hair, nails): Contain vitamins (A, E, C, BIOTIN), minerals (zinc, selenium), collagen, hyaluronic acid.
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For weight loss: Contain substances that accelerate metabolism that suppress appetite, blocking the absorption of fats and carbohydrates (green tea extract, L-carnitine, chrome). It must be remembered that such dietary supplements often contain unsafe ingredients.
2.4. Classification on action on the body (in a simplified form):
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General strengthening: Increase the overall resistance of the body.
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Antioxidant: Protect cells from damage by free radicals.
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Toning: Increase performance and energy.
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Soothing: Reduce nervous tension and improve sleep.
It is important to note that the same dietary supplement can relate to several classifications at the same time. For example, the vitamin-mineral complex can be classified as a nutrician, produced in the form of tablets and be designed to maintain immunity.
Section 3: Hidden ingredients: What can be hidden behind a beautiful label?
One of the main risks associated with the use of dietary supplements is the presence of hidden ingredients that are not indicated on the label. This may be due to various reasons, from the intentional falsification of products to the negligence of the manufacturer. The presence of such ingredients may pose a serious danger to consumer health.
3.1. Forbidden substances:
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Stimulants: Some dietary supplements for losing weight and increase in energy may contain stimulants such as sibuturine, ephedrine and their analogues that are prohibited for use in food additives due to the risk of serious side effects, including increasing blood pressure, heart rhythm and even stroke. These substances are often not indicated on the label in order to avoid legal liability.
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Anabolic steroid: Dietary supplements designed to increase muscle mass may contain anabolic steroids, which are also prohibited for use in dietary supplements. Anabolic steroids can cause serious side effects, such as hormonal balance, liver damage, cardiovascular diseases and mental disorders.
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Medicines: Some dietary supplements may contain drugs designed to treat specific diseases. For example, dietary supplements for the treatment of erectile dysfunction may contain sildenafil (viagra) or its analogues, and dietary supplements for the treatment of arthritis may contain non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The use of such dietary supplements can lead to undesirable side effects and interactions with other drugs.
3.2. Unsafe dosages:
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Exceeding permissible levels of vitamins and minerals: Some dietary supplements may contain vitamins and minerals in dosages significantly exceeding the recommended daily standards. Excessive consumption of certain vitamins and minerals can lead to hypervitaminosis and other undesirable consequences. For example, an excess of vitamin A can be toxic for the liver, and an excess of iron can lead to organs damage.
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Non -standard vegetable extracts: Plant -based dietary supplements can contain various concentrations of active substances, which makes it difficult to predict their effectiveness and safety. Non -standard extracts may contain an insufficient amount of active substances to achieve the desired effect or, conversely, excessively high concentration, which can lead to side effects.
3.3. Allergens:
- Hidden allergens: Some dietary supplements may contain allergens not indicated on the label, such as gluten, lactose, soy, nuts and seafood. This can be a serious danger to people with allergies, causing allergic reactions of varying severity, from light skin rashes to anaphylactic shock.
3.4. Toxic substances:
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Heavy metals: Some dietary supplements, especially those made from plant materials, can be polluted by heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium, mercury and arsenic. Long -term use of such dietary supplements can lead to the accumulation of heavy metals in the body and cause various diseases.
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Mycotoxins: Some dietary supplements, especially those that contain cereals and nuts, can be contaminated with mycotoxins – toxic substances formed by molds. Mycotoxins can have a carcinogenic effect and cause other adverse health effects.
3.5. Incorrect identification of ingredients:
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Substitution of ingredients: Some manufacturers can replace expensive ingredients with cheaper analogues without indicating this on the label. For example, instead of an expensive ginseng extract, Eleutherococcus extract, which has similar properties, can be used, but is much cheaper.
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The wrong name of the ingredients: Sometimes manufacturers can use incorrect or misleading the names of the ingredients to hide their true nature. For example, instead of sugar, the name “corn syrup with a high fructose content”, which sounds more harmless, can be used.
3.6. Lack of quality control:
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Non -compliance with production standards: The production of dietary supplements is not always regulated as strictly as the production of drugs. This can lead to non -compliance with quality and safety standards, which increases the risk of foreign substances and pollutants in dietary supplements.
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Lack of independent examination: Many dietary supplements do not undergo an independent examination, which makes it difficult to verify their composition and safety. Consumers have to rely on the statements of manufacturers that do not always correspond to reality.
To minimize the risk of using dietary supplements with hidden ingredients, it is necessary to carefully choose the manufacturer, study the composition and quality certificates, as well as consult a doctor before taking any additives.
Section 4: risks associated with the use of dietary supplements: who should be especially careful?
The use of dietary supplements is fraught with certain risks that must be taken into account before the start of their reception. These risks vary depending on the composition of the dietary supplement, dosage, individual characteristics of the body and the presence of concomitant diseases.
4.1. Interaction with drugs:
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Strengthening or weakening of the action of drugs: Bades can interact with drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect. For example, St. John’s wort contained in some dietary supplements can reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants and contraceptives. Vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants (drugs that thin blood).
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Increasing the risk of side effects: The combination of dietary supplements with drugs can increase the risk of side effects. For example, simultaneous intake of dietary supplements containing iron with antibiotics can disrupt antibiotic absorption.
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Changing the metabolism of drugs: Some dietary supplements can change the metabolism of drugs in the liver, which can lead to an increase or decrease in their concentration in the blood.
4.2. Side effects:
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Individual intolerance: Some people may observe individual intolerance to individual components of dietary supplements, which manifests itself in the form of allergic reactions, digestive disorders, headaches and other symptoms.
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Overdose: If the recommended dose of dietary supplement can occur side effects associated with excessive consumption of vitamins, minerals and other biologically active substances.
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Toxic effects: Some dietary supplements, especially those that contain plant extracts, can have a toxic effect on the liver, kidneys and other organs.
4.3. Risk for certain population groups:
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Pregnant and lactating women: The use of dietary supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be especially careful, since some substances can penetrate through the placenta or breast milk and have a negative effect on the development of the baby. Before taking any dietary supplements, pregnant and nursing women need to consult a doctor.
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Children: Not all dietary supplements are suitable for children. Some dietary supplements may contain substances that are contraindicated in children or can cause side effects. Before taking dietary supplements, children need to consult a pediatrician.
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Elderly people: Older people are more sensitive to side effects of dietary supplements and interaction with drugs. Before taking dietary supplements, older people need to consult a doctor and take into account the presence of related diseases.
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People with chronic diseases: People with chronic diseases such as liver, kidneys, heart, gastrointestinal tract, must be especially careful when using dietary supplements and consult a doctor before taking them.
4.4. Dependence on the dietary supplement:
- Psychological dependence: Some people can experience psychological dependence on dietary supplements, believing in their miraculous properties and not representing their lives without them. This can lead to excessive use of dietary supplements and rejection of traditional treatment.
4.5. Replacing full nutrition:
- Disadvantage of nutrients: The use of dietary supplements should not replace full and balanced diet. Bades are only an addition to the diet and cannot provide the body with all the necessary nutrients.
4.6. Lack of proven effectiveness:
- Placebo effect: Many dietary supplements do not have proven effectiveness and their action may be due to the placebo effect. The placebo effect is a psychological effect in which a person feels an improvement in his condition thanks to faith in the effectiveness of the drug, even if it does not contain active substances.
To minimize the risks associated with the use of dietary supplements, it is necessary:
- Carefully study the composition and properties of dietary supplements.
- Consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements, especially in the presence of chronic diseases, pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers with a good reputation.
- Follow the recommended dosages.
- To inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements, especially if you take any drugs.
- Do not replace dietary supplements with full nutrition.
- Remember that dietary supplements are not medicines and are not intended for the treatment of diseases.
Section 5: How to choose a safe and effective dietary supplement: practical recommendations
The choice of safe and effective dietary supplements is a responsible task that requires an attentive approach and critical thinking. Following the recommendations below, you can significantly reduce the risk of acquiring low -quality products and avoid undesirable health consequences.
5.1. Manufacturer’s study:
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Reputation manufacturer: Before buying a dietary supplement, you need to study the reputation of the manufacturer. Reliable manufacturers have a good reputation, many years of experience in the market and positive consumer reviews. You can look for information about the manufacturer on the Internet, on specialized forums and in the reviews of customers.
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Certification of production: It is important that the production of dietary supplements is certified in accordance with international quality standards, such as GMP (good manufactoring practice). GMP certification guarantees that production is carried out in accordance with established standards and that the product meets the stated requirements.
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The presence of your own production: Manufacturers who have their own production, as a rule, better control the quality of their products than those who order production from third -party organizations.
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Information transparency: Reliable manufacturers provide complete and reliable information about their products, including the composition, dosage, readings and contraindications. They also indicate contact details for feedback from consumers.
5.2. Analysis of the composition:
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Full list of ingredients: A full list of ingredients, including active substances, auxiliary substances, preservatives and dyes, should be indicated on the Bad label. You should not buy dietary supplements on the label of which are indicated by incomplete or obscure composition.
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Dosage of active substances: It is necessary to pay attention to the dosage of active substances. It must comply with the recommended daily consumption standards and not exceed the permissible upper levels. Too high dosages of active substances can be dangerous to health.
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The form of release of active substances: Some forms of release of active substances are better absorbed by the body than others. For example, vitamin D3 is better absorbed than vitamin D2. You should choose dietary supplements containing active substances in the most bio -access form.
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The presence of standardized extracts: If the dietary supplement contains plant extracts, it is desirable that they are standardized in terms of the content of active substances. This guarantees that each batch of Bada contains the same amount of active substances and has a predictable effect.
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Lack of artificial additives: It is advisable to choose dietary supplements that do not contain artificial dyes, flavors, preservatives and sweeteners. These additives can cause allergic reactions and other undesirable side effects.
5.3. Quality certificates check:
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The presence of a certificate of conformity: In Russia, all dietary supplements must undergo mandatory state registration and have a certificate of conformity. The presence of a certificate of conformity guarantees that the dietary supplement meets the established safety and quality requirements.
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Independent tests: Some dietary supplements undergo independent tests in third -party laboratories. The results of these tests can be indicated on the label or on the manufacturer’s website. The presence of the results of independent tests is an additional confirmation of the quality and safety of Bad.
5.4. Consultation with a doctor:
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Individual recommendations: Before taking any dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor can assess the state of your health, identify possible contraindications and give individual recommendations for the choice and dosage of dietary supplements.
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Interaction with drugs: The doctor can evaluate the possible interaction of dietary supplements with the drugs that you take and prevent unwanted side effects.
5.5. A critical approach to advertising:
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Beware of high -profile promises: Do not believe the loud promises of dietary supplements who promise miraculous effects and a rapid cure from various diseases. Bades are not medicines and are not intended for the treatment of diseases.
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Check the information: Before buying dietary supplements, check information about it in independent sources, such as scientific articles, expert reviews and consumer reviews.
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Do not trust the reviews: You should not completely trust the reviews about dietary supplements posted on the sites of manufacturers or sellers. These reviews can be falsified or written by interested persons.
5.6. Where to buy dietary supplements:
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Pharmacies: Pharmacies are a reliable place to buy dietary supplements, as they are required to check the quality and safety of the products sold.
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Specialized stores: Specialized healthy food stores can also be a good place to buy dietary supplements, but you need to make sure that the store is reliable and the quality of the products sold.
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Online stores: When buying dietary supplements in online stores, you need to be especially careful and choose only trusted and reliable stores. Before buying, you must carefully study the information about the seller, the delivery and return conditions of the goods.
5.7. Careful reading of the label:
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Best before date: Before buying a dietary supplement, you need to check the expiration date. You should not buy dietary supplements with an expired expiration date.
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Storage conditions: On the Bad label, storage conditions must be indicated. These conditions must be observed in order to maintain the quality and safety of the product.
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Instructions for use: Before taking a dietary supplement, you must carefully read the instructions for use and follow the recommended dosages.
Following these recommendations, you can significantly increase the likelihood of choosing a safe and effective dietary supplement that will benefit your health.
Section 6: regulation of the market market: Comparison of various countries
The regulation of the market of DBDs varies significantly in different countries. In some countries, dietary supplements are regulated as food, in others – as drugs. The degree of quality control, safety and efficiency of dietary supplements also varies depending on the country.
6.1. The United States of America (USA):
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Regulation: In the United States, dietary supplements are regulated as food in accordance with the Law on Food Addles and Medical Education of 1994 (DSHEA).
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Preliminary approval: Dietary supplements do not require preliminary approval by the Office for the quality of food quality and drugs of the United States (FDA) before entering the market.
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Manufacturer’s responsibility: The manufacturer is responsible for the security and veracity of statements about his products.
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The role of FDA: FDA can interfere if the dietary supplement poses a threat to consumer health or if the manufacturer’s statements are false or misleading.
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GMP: Dad manufacturers are required to comply with the GMP (good manufactoring practice) standards, which establish the requirements for the quality of production.
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Criticism: The system of regulation of dietary supplements in the United States is often criticized for insufficient quality control and safety.
6.2. European Union (EU):
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Regulation: In the EU, dietary supplements are regulated as food in accordance with the Directive 2002/46/EC.
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Harmonization: The directive establishes general requirements for the composition, labeling and safety of dietary supplements, but individual EU member countries can establish their own national rules.
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Preliminary approval: In most EU countries, dietary supplements do not require preliminary approval before entering the market.
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Manufacturer’s responsibility: The manufacturer is responsible for the safety of his products.
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EFSA: The European Power Safety Agency (EFSA) assesses the safety of ingredients used in dietary supplements.
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Maximum levels of vitamins and minerals: The EU set the maximum levels of vitamins and minerals that may be contained in dietary supplements.
6.3. Canada:
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Regulation: In Canada Bada (NATURAL HEALTH Products – NHPS) are regulated as a separate category of products in accordance with the Regulation on natural health products (NHPR).
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Preliminary approval: NHPS require preliminary approval by the Ministry of Health of Canada before entering the market.
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Licensing: NHPS manufacturers should have a license for the production and sale of their products.
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Safety and efficiency assessment: Health Canada assesses the safety and effectiveness of NHPS before their approval.
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Marking: NHPS should have a clear marking indicating the ingredients, dosage, indications and contraindications.
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Strict control: The NHPS regulation system in Canada is considered one of the most stringent in the world.
6.4. Australia:
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Regulation: In Australia, Complementary Medicines are regulated as drugs in accordance with the law on therapeutic goods (Therapeutic Goods Act).
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Preliminary approval: Complementary Medicines require preliminary approval by the Australian therapeutic goods management before entering the market.
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Licensing: Complementary Medicines manufacturers should have a license for the production and sale of their products.
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Safety and efficiency assessment: TGA assesses the safety and efficiency of Complementary Medicines before their approval.
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Strict control: The Complementary Medicines regulation system in Australia is also considered one of the most stringent in the world.
6.5. Russia:
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Regulation: In Russia, dietary supplements are regulated as food in accordance with the Federal Law “On Sanitary and Epidemiological Weight of the Population” and other regulatory acts.
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State registration: Dietary supplements are subject to mandatory state registration in the Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Welfare (Rospotrebnadzor).
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Sanitary and epidemiological examination: Before state registration, dietary supplements undergo a sanitary and epidemiological examination, which evaluates their safety and compliance with the established requirements.
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Marking requirements: Bades must have a clear marking indicating the composition, dosage, indications and contraindications.
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Quality control: Rospotrebnadzor monitors the quality and safety of dietary supplements in circulation.
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Weaknesses: The system of regulation of dietary supplements in Russia has a number of weaknesses, such as insufficient control over the quality of products and the weak responsibility of manufacturers for false information.
Comparison of regulation in various countries:
Side | Regulation | Preliminary approval | Responsibility | CONTROL |
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USA | Food | No | Manufacturer | FDA (limited) |
EU | Food | No (in most countries) | Manufacturer | EFSA, national organs |
Canada | Separate category (NHPS) | Yes | Manufacturer | Health Canada |
Australia | Medicines | Yes | Manufacturer | TGA |
Russia | Food | State registration | Manufacturer | RospoRebnadzor |
The table shows that the systems of regulation of dietary supplements in different countries are significantly different. Canada and Australia have the most stringent regulation systems requiring preliminary approval of dietary supplements before entering the market. The United States and the EU have more liberal regulation systems in which the responsibility for the safety of products is assigned to the manufacturer. Russia occupies an intermediate position, requiring state registration of dietary supplements, but having a weak control over the quality of products.
Understanding the features of the regulation of the market of the basket in various countries allows consumers to better navigate in the variety of products and make a conscious choice.
Section 7: Alternative approaches to maintaining health: what instead of dietary supplements?
Bades are often positioned as a simple and affordable way to maintain health, but there are alternative approaches that can be more effective and safe. These approaches are based on the principles of a healthy lifestyle and include proper nutrition, physical activity, stress management and rejection of bad habits.
7.1. Proper nutrition:
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Balanced diet: The basis of a healthy lifestyle is a balanced diet that includes all the necessary nutrients: proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and trace elements. The diet should be diverse and include various products from all food groups.
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Restriction of processed products: The consumption of processed products such as fast food, semi-finished products, sweet drinks and confectionery products should be limited. These products contain a lot of sugar, salt, fats and artificial additives that can negatively affect health.
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Increase in fruits and vegetable consumptions: Fruits and vegetables are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. It is recommended to use at least 5 portions of fruits and vegetables per day.
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Preference for whole grain products: All -grain products, such as whole grain bread, brown rice and oatmeal, contain more fiber, vitamins and minerals than refined cereals.
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The choice of low -fat protein sources: You should choose low -fat sources of protein, such as a chicken without skin, fish, legumes and tofu.
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Portion size control: It is important to control the size of the portions so as not to overeat and maintain healthy weight.
7.2. Physical activity:
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Regular exercises: Regular physical exercises are necessary to maintain health and good health. It is recommended to engage in moderate intensity of at least 150 minutes a week or a high intensity of at least 75 minutes a week.
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A variety of types of activity: The types of physical activity should be diversified to use various muscle groups and prevent overtraining. Include aerobic exercises (walking, running, swimming), strength exercises (lifting weights, push -ups, squats) and flexibility exercises (stretching, yoga) in your training program.
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Active lifestyle: Try to lead an active lifestyle during the day. Walk more on foot, climb the stairs instead of an elevator, take breaks in work for a warm -up.
7.3. Stress management:
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Relaxation methods: Stress can negatively affect health. Use various relaxation methods to reduce stress, such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing and listening to music.
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Sufficient sleep: The lack of sleep can aggravate stress and negatively affect health. Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.
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Communication with friends and family: Communication with friends and family can help reduce stress and improve mood.
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Hobbies and hobbies: Do your favorite thing to get away from everyday problems and enjoy.
7.4. Refusal of bad habits:
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Smoking: Smoking is one of the main causes of the development of many diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases and lung diseases. Refusal of smoking is one of the most important steps that can be taken to improve your health.
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Alcohol abuse: Alcohol abuse can lead to damage to the liver, cardiovascular diseases and other health problems. You should limit alcohol consumption or abandon it at all.
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Drugs: Drug use