Bad and health: a scientific view of the problem

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Bad and health: a scientific view of the problem

I. Determination and classification of dietary supplements

• 1.1. What is dietary supplement?

  The dietary supplement, or biologically active additives to food, are concentrates of natural or identical biologically active substances that are intended 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. They are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Their main goal is to maintain health, reduce the risk of developing diseases and normalization of the body’s functions.

  Unlike drugs that undergo perennial clinical trials and prove their effectiveness and safety, dietary supplements are recorded according to a simplified procedure that does not require evidence of the therapeutic effect. This means that dietary supplement manufacturers are not required to provide data on the effectiveness of the product in the treatment of any diseases.

• 1.2. Classification of dietary supplements by composition and purpose

  Bades are classified according to various criteria, including their composition and the alleged effect on the body. The main categories include:

  • Nutricevtiki: Sources of indispensable 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: vitamin D, calcium, fish oil.

  • Parafarmetzetics: Biologically active substances that have a healing effect and support the normal function of organs and systems. They can have a mild regulatory effect on physiological processes. Examples: plant extracts (echinacea, ginseng), probiotics, prebiotics.

  • Probiotics: Living microorganisms, which, when used in sufficient quantities have a beneficial effect on the host’s body, improving the composition and function of intestinal microflora. They contribute to the normalization of digestion, strengthen immunity and improve the general state of health.

  • Prebiotics: Substances that are not digested in the upper sections of the gastrointestinal tract and serve as a nutrient medium for beneficial bacteria in the intestines. They stimulate the growth and activity of probiotics, contributing to the maintenance of a healthy microflora.

  • Sinbiotics: Combinations of probiotics and prebiotics that have a synergistic effect on intestinal health.

  • Enzymes (enzymes): Protein molecules that accelerate chemical reactions in the body. They are necessary for normal digestion, metabolism and other vital processes. Some dietary supplements contain enzymes to improve food digestion.

  • Plant extracts: Concentrated extracts from various parts of plants (leaves, roots, fruits) containing biologically active substances with various properties. Examples: green tea extract, grape seed extract.

  • Biogenic stimulants: Substances obtained from animal and plants that have a stimulating effect on metabolic processes and increase the body’s resistance to adverse factors.

• 1.3. Legal regulation of dietary supplements in Russia

  The turnover of dietary supplements in Russia is regulated by the Federal Law “On the quality and safety of food products” and other regulatory acts. State registration of dietary supplements is carried out by the Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Blessing (Rospotrebnadzor).

  The registration procedure includes an examination of the documents submitted by the manufacturer and the product security assessment. When registering dietary supplements, a certificate of state registration (SGR) is assigned, which confirms the compliance of the product with security requirements.

  It is important to note that the SCR is not evidence of the effectiveness of dietary supplements. The manufacturer is not obliged to prove that the dietary supplement has the declared effect. Responsibility for the compliance of information about the product of reality is borne by the manufacturer.

II. Scientific data on efficiency and safety dietary supplement

• 2.1. Dietary supplement and replenishment of a deficiency of vitamins and minerals

  In some cases, dietary supplements can be useful for replenishing the deficiency of vitamins and minerals, especially in risk groups, such as:

  • Pregnant and lactating women: They need an increased amount of folic acid, iron, calcium and other nutrients.
  • Elderly people: Often a deficiency of vitamin D, vitamin B12 and calcium.
  • Vegetarians and vegans: They may experience a deficiency of vitamin B12, iron, zinc and calcium.
  • People with certain diseases: They may need additional vitamins and minerals to maintain health.

  However, before starting to receive dietary supplements, it is recommended to consult a doctor and take tests to determine the level of vitamins and minerals in the body. The uncontrolled intake of dietary supplements can lead to hypervitaminosis and other adverse consequences.

  In most cases, a deficiency of vitamins and minerals can be replenished using a balanced diet that includes various foods. Bad should be considered as an addition to the diet, and not as its replacement.

• 2.2. Dietary supplement and prevention of diseases

  Some dietary supplements can have a preventive effect in relation to certain diseases. For example:

  • Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids: Reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, improve brain function and have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Calcium and vitamin D: Prevent the development of osteoporosis and reduce the risk of bone fractures.
  • Probiotics: Improve digestion, strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of infectious diseases.

  However, it is important to understand that dietary supplements are not medicines and cannot completely prevent the development of diseases. They can only reduce the risk of their occurrence. For effective prevention of diseases, it is necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle, eat right and regularly engage in physical exercises.

  Some studies show that certain dietary supplements can be associated with an increased risk of developing certain diseases. For example, high doses of vitamin E can increase the risk of prostate cancer, and beta-carotene can increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers.

• 2.3. Dietary supplement and treatment of diseases

  Bad are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. The use of dietary supplements as the main method of treatment can be dangerous and lead to a deterioration in health.

  Some dietary supplement manufacturers declare their products therapeutic properties, but these statements often do not have scientific confirmation. It is important to critically evaluate information about dietary supplements and not trust advertising, promising miraculous healing.

  In some cases, dietary supplements can be used as an aid in the treatment of diseases, but only on the recommendation of a doctor. For example, probiotics can be useful in the treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

  It is important to remember that the treatment of diseases should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor using drugs, the effectiveness and safety of which are proven by clinical trials.

• 2.4. Bad safety: possible side effects and contraindications

  Bad is not always safe. They can cause side effects, especially with improper use or in the presence of contraindications. Possible side effects include:

  • Allergic reactions: Rashes, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema.
  • Digestive disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain.
  • Interaction with drugs: Bad can enhance or weaken the effect of drugs, which can lead to undesirable consequences.
  • Toxic effects on organs and systems: With prolonged use in high doses, some dietary supplements can have a toxic effect on the liver, kidneys and other organs.

  Contraindications to the use of dietary supplements include:

  • Individual intolerance to dietary supplements.
  • Pregnancy and lactation period (for some dietary supplements).
  • Children’s age (for some dietary supplements).
  • Certain diseases (for example, liver diseases, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract).

  Before taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to carefully study the composition of the product, contraindications and possible side effects. It is recommended to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take medications.

• 2.5. Contamination and falsification of dietary supplements

  One of the problems associated with dietary supplements is the possibility of contamination and falsification. Some dietary supplements may contain impurities of heavy metals, pesticides, bacteria or other pollutants.

  In addition, some manufacturers can falsify dietary supplements by adding medicines to them without indicating the label. This can be hazardous to health, especially if a person does not know about the presence of a medicinal substance and takes it simultaneously with other drugs.

  To minimize the risk of acquiring low -quality dietary supplements, it is recommended to buy products only from reliable manufacturers and in proven places of sale (pharmacies, specialized stores). It is important to pay attention to the availability of a certificate of state registration (SGR) and the expiration date of the product.

  It must be remembered that the low price of dietary supplements may indicate its low quality or falsification.

III. Critical analysis of dietary supplements

• 3.1. Problems of Dad research methodology

  The quality of dietary supplements often leaves much to be desired. There are a number of methodological problems that make it difficult to assess the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements:

  • Insufficient sample size: Many dietary supplements are conducted in small groups of people, which reduces the statistical significance of the results.
  • Lack of a control group: Some studies do not have a control group, which complicates the comparison of the results between groups that took dietary supplements and did not accept.
  • Inadequate blinding: Ideally, research should be double blind, that is, neither participants nor researchers should know who accepts the dietary supplement and who is a placebo. However, in dietary supplements, it is often not possible to ensure adequate blinding, which can lead to subjective assessments of the results.
  • The bias of financing: Studies financed by dietary supplement manufacturers often show more favorable results than studies financed by independent sources.
  • Lack of standardization: Bad of different manufacturers may contain different concentrations of active substances, which complicates the comparison of research results.
  • Insufficient reporting on side effects: Dietary supplements are often not reported about all side effects, which complicates the product safety assessment.

  These methodological problems make it difficult to obtain reliable data on the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements and require a critical analysis of research results.

• 3.2. Meta-analysis and systematic reviews of dietary supplement research

  Met-analysis and systematic reviews are an important tool for evaluating the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements. They combine the results of several studies on the same topic, and allow you to get more reliable conclusions.

  However, even meta analysis and systematic reviews can be subject to bias and methodological problems. It is important to critically evaluate the quality of meta analysis and systematic reviews, paying attention to the following aspects:

  • Criteria for inclusion of research: What studies were included in meta analysis or systematic review and why?
  • Assessment of the quality of research: How was the quality of the on studies assessed?
  • Statistical analysis methods: What methods of statistical analysis were used to combine research results?
  • The presence of the bias of the publication: Are there any signs of the bias of the publication, that is, the tendency to publish research with positive results more often than research with negative results?

  When analyzing the results of meta-analyzes and systematic reviews, it is important to consider all these factors and draw conclusions carefully.

• 3.3. Criteria for assessing the reliability of information about dietary supplements

  The Internet and other sources of information about dietary supplements contain a lot of contradictory and inaccurate information. It is important to be able to critically evaluate information about dietary supplements and distinguish scientifically sound information from advertising and marketing tricks.

  The main criteria for assessing the reliability of information about dietary supplements:

  • Source of information: Information from reliable sources (for example, medical journals, scientific organizations, state bodies) is more likely to be reliable than information from non -authoritative sources (for example, blogs, forums, dietary supplements).
  • Availability of links to scientific research: Reliable information should be confirmed by references to scientific research.
  • Lack of exaggerated statements: Information containing exaggerated statements about the therapeutic properties of dietary supplements is most likely inaccurate.
  • The presence of warnings about possible side effects and contraindications: Reliable information should contain warnings about possible side effects and contraindications of dietary supplements.
  • Lack of conflict of interests: Information provided by dietary supplements may be biased and not reflect the real situation.

  In doubt about the reliability of information about dietary supplements, it is recommended to consult a doctor or other qualified medical specialist.

IV. Popular dietary supplements and their scientific rationale

• 4.1. Vitamin D.

  Vitamin D is a fat -soluble vitamin that plays an important role in maintaining the health of bones, the immune system and other body functions. It is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight and enters the body with food.

  Vitamin D deficiency is a common problem, especially in regions with insufficient sunlight. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to the development of osteoporosis, rickets, increased risk of infectious diseases and other health problems.

  A dietary supplement with vitamin D can be useful for replenishing vitamin D deficiency, especially in risk groups, such as elderly people, people with dark skin and people living in regions with insufficient sunlight.

  Scientific research confirms the effectiveness of vitamin D in maintaining bone health and immune system. However, it is important to take vitamin D in the recommended doses, since an overdose can be dangerous.

• 4.2. Omega-3 fatty acids

  Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are necessary for the normal functioning of the body. They are found in fish, linen seeds, walnuts and other foods.

  Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, improve brain function and have other beneficial effects.

  A dietary supplement with omega-3 fatty acids can be useful for people who do not consume enough fish in their diet.

  Scientific studies confirm the effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acids in reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and improving the function of the brain. However, it is important to choose high-quality dietary supplements with omega-3 fatty acids containing a sufficient amount of EPA and DHA.

• 4.3. Probiotics

  Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, when used in sufficient quantities, have a beneficial effect on the host’s body, improving the composition and function of intestinal microflora.

  Probiotics contribute to the normalization of digestion, strengthening immunity and improving the general state of health. They can be useful in the treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome and other diseases.

  Bad with probiotics contain various strains of bacteria, which can have different effects on the body. It is important to choose dietary supplements with probiotics containing bacterial strains, the effectiveness of which is proved by scientific research.

  Scientific research confirms the effectiveness of probiotics in improving digestion and strengthening immunity. However, it is important to remember that not all probiotics are equally effective.

• 4.4. Magnesium

  Magnesium is an important mineral that is involved in many biochemical processes in the body. It is necessary for the normal function of muscles, nervous system, heart and bones.

  Magnesium deficiency can lead to the development of seizures, muscle weakness, increased irritability, heart rhythm and other health problems.

  Bad with magnesium can be useful for replenishing magnesium deficiency, especially in risk groups, such as diabetes, people who take certain medicines, and people who abuse alcohol.

  Scientific research confirms the effectiveness of magnesium in maintaining muscle and nervous system health. However, it is important to take magnesium in the recommended doses, since an overdose can cause diarrhea.

• 4.5. Glucosamine and chondroitin

  Glucosamine and chondroitin are components of cartilage. They are used as dietary supplements to relieve pain and improve joint function with osteoarthritis.

  It is believed that glucosamine and chondroitin contribute to the restoration of cartilage and reduce inflammation in the joints.

  The results of scientific research on the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin in osteoarthritis are contradictory. Some studies show that they can be useful to facilitate pain and improve joint function, while other studies have not revealed a significant effect.

  Further studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin for osteoarthritis.

V. Recommendations for the use of dietary supplements

• 5.1. Consultation with a doctor

  Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will be able to evaluate your health status, identify possible contraindications and choose the most suitable dietary supplement in the necessary dosage.

  It is especially important to consult a doctor if you have any diseases or you take medications. Bad can interact with drugs and enhance or weaken their effect.

• 5.2. The choice of high -quality dietary supplements

  When choosing dietary supplements, you need to pay attention to the quality of the product. Buy dietary supplements only from reliable manufacturers and in proven places of sale (pharmacies, specialized stores).

  Carefully study the composition of the product, contraindications and possible side effects. Pay attention to the availability of a certificate of state registration (SGR) and the expiration date of the product.

  Do not trust advertising promising miraculous healing. Critically evaluate the information about dietary supplements and give preference to products whose efficiency and safety are proven by scientific research.

• 5.3. Compliance with the dosage and reception mode

  When taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to strictly observe the dosage and the reception mode indicated on the label of the product. Do not exceed the recommended dosage, as this can lead to side effects.

  Take dietary supplement in accordance with the doctor’s recommendations. Do not stop taking dietary supplements without consulting a doctor.

• 5.4. Bad combination with a healthy lifestyle

  Bad is not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle. To maintain health, you need to eat properly, regularly engage in physical exercises, avoid stress and abandon bad habits.

  Bad should be considered as an addition to a healthy lifestyle, and not as its replacement.

• 5.5. Monitoring of health status

  When taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to carefully monitor your state of health. If you notice any side effects, stop taking dietary supplements and consult a doctor.

  Pass medical examinations regularly and take tests to control the health status.

VI. Conclusion (not included, according to the assignment)

VII. List of literature (not included, according to the assignment)