Bades: myths about the benefits and real harm

The article should be written in Russian.

Bades: myths about the benefits and real harm

Section 1: What is dietary supplements and how they are regulated

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) is a category of products designed to supplement the diet. They are not drugs, and this is a fundamental difference. Bades may contain vitamins, minerals, amino acids, grass, probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes and other ingredients that, according to manufacturers, have a positive effect on health. However, unlike drugs, the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements are not subjected to the same strict clinical tests.

The regulation of dietary supplements in Russia is carried out by the Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Welfare (Rospotrebnadzor). The procedure for registration of Bad includes the provision of documentation confirming the compliance of products with sanitary and epidemiological norms and rules. It is important to understand that registration in Rospotrebnadzor does not mean that dietary supplement is effective or safe for everyone. It only confirms that the product meets the safety requirements of food products and does not contain harmful substances in dangerous concentrations.

Key aspects of the regulation of dietary supplements in Russia include:

Sanitary and epidemiological examination: The products are examined to determine its safety for human health.
State registration: Bades must be registered in Rospotrebnadzor.
Marking and advertising control: Information on the packaging and in advertising materials should be reliable and not mislead consumers. It is forbidden to attribute to Badam the healing properties if they are not confirmed by clinical trials.
Control over production and turnover: Monitoring compliance with sanitary standards at enterprises producing dietary supplements is carried out.

Despite the existing rules, there are many unscrupulous manufacturers in the dietary supplement market who abuse consumers’ trust, offering ineffective or even dangerous products. Therefore, it is important to critically evaluate information about dietary supplements and consult a doctor before their use.

Section 2: common myths about the benefits

Around the dietary supplements there are many myths that are heated by aggressive advertising and not enough critical perception of information by consumers. We will analyze the most common of them:

Myth 1: Dietary supplements are natural and, therefore, safe products. “Natural” does not always mean “safe”. Many natural substances can be toxic or allergic reactions. In addition, the concentration of active substances in dietary supplements can be unpredictable, which increases the risk of side effects. Even plant dietary supplements can interact with drugs and enhance or weaken their effect.
Myth 2: Bades can cure diseases. Bades are not medicines and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. They can be useful for maintaining the health and prevention of some conditions, but do not replace the full treatment prescribed by the doctor. Advertising claiming that dietary supplement can cure cancer, diabetes or other serious diseases, is illegal and misleading.
Myth 3: Bades are necessary for everyone to maintain health. Most people who adhere to a balanced diet receive a sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals from food. Reception of dietary supplements without need can lead to hypervitaminosis or excess minerals, which is also harmful to health. Bades can be useful in certain cases, for example, with a deficiency of vitamin D in winter or during pregnancy, but the decision to take them should be made together with a doctor.
Myth 4: Bades pass the same strict tests as medicines. As already noted, dietary supplements are not subjected to the same strict clinical trials as drugs. Manufacturers of dietary supplements are not required to prove their effectiveness and safety to the same extent as manufacturers of drugs. This means that consumers should independently evaluate the risks and advantages of receiving dietary supplements, based on limited data.
Myth 5: If dietary supplements are sold in a pharmacy, then it is safe and effective. The sale of dietary supplements in a pharmacy is not a guarantee of its safety and efficiency. Pharmacies are required to sell only registered dietary supplements, but this does not mean that they are responsible for their composition and action. Responsibility for safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements is borne by the manufacturer.
Myth 6: Bades can replace good nutrition. Bades are additives to the diet, not its replacement. They do not contain all the necessary nutrients that can be obtained from a varied and balanced diet. Excessive fascination with dietary supplements to the detriment of full nutrition can lead to a deficiency of important nutrients and health problems.
Myth 7: There are no side effects from dietary supplements. Any substance that enters the body can cause side effects, especially with improper use or interaction with other substances. Bada is no exception. They can cause allergic reactions, digestive disorders, headaches and other undesirable effects.
Myth 8: The larger the dose of dietary supplements, the better the effect. An increase in dose of dietary supplements does not always lead to an increase in a positive effect, but on the contrary, it can increase the risk of side effects. It is important to observe the recommended dosages indicated on the packaging and consult a doctor before using high doses.

Section 3: Real harm of dietary supplements: risks and consequences

Despite the fact that dietary supplements are positioned as safe and healthy food supplements, they can pose a real health threat. The risks associated with the use of dietary supplements include:

Poor composition and falsification: A lot of fake products containing harmful substances or not containing declared ingredients are found on the dietary supplement market. Unscrupulous manufacturers can add prohibited substances to dietary supplements, such as potent drugs, hormones or stimulants, without indicating the packaging. The use of such dietary supplements can lead to serious health consequences, including renal failure, liver damage, cardiovascular diseases and other complications.
Unpredictable interactions with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect. This can lead to undesirable side effects or reducing treatment effectiveness. For example, dietary supplements containing St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of contraceptives and antidepressants. Bades containing vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants. Before using dietary supplements, it is necessary to inform the doctor about all the medications taken.
Allergic reactions: Bades can cause allergic reactions in people with increased sensitivity to certain ingredients. Allergic reactions can appear in the form of a skin rash, itching, Quincke’s edema, anaphylactic shock and other symptoms. People prone to allergies should carefully study the composition of dietary supplements and avoid the use of products containing potential allergens.
An overdose of vitamins and minerals: Excessive use of dietary supplements containing vitamins and minerals can lead to hypervitaminosis or excess minerals. Hypervitaminosis can cause various symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, skin rash and others. In severe cases, hypervitaminosis can lead to damage to the liver, kidneys and other organs. Excess minerals can also be harmful to health. For example, an excess of iron can cause hemochromatosis, and an excess of calcium – hypercalcemia.
Damage to the liver and kidneys: Some dietary supplements can have a toxic effect on the liver and kidneys. This is especially true for dietary supplements containing plant extracts, the metabolism of which occurs in the liver. The use of such dietary supplements can lead to hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, renal failure and other diseases.
Influence on the hormonal background: Some dietary supplements, especially those that are positioned as means for increasing muscle mass or improving potency, may contain hormones or substances that affect hormonal background. The use of such dietary supplements can lead to hormonal disorders, such as gynecomastia in men, violation of the menstrual cycle in women, acne, hair loss and other problems.
The risk of infection: Some dietary supplements can be polluted by bacteria, viruses or fungi, which can lead to infectious diseases. This is especially true for dietary supplements produced in conditions that do not meet sanitary standards.
Slow down for a doctor: The belief that dietary supplements can replace a full treatment can lead to the fact that people put off a doctor’s contact, which can worsen the prognosis of the disease.

Section 4: who should be especially careful with dietary supplements

Some categories of people should be especially careful when considering the issue of admission of dietary supplements:

Pregnant and lactating women: Reception of dietary supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding can be dangerous to the health of the mother and baby. Many dietary supplements have not been studied for safety for this category of the population, and their use can lead to undesirable consequences. Pregnant and lactating women should consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements.
Children: Reception of dietary supplements by children should be especially careful, since their body is more sensitive to the effects of various substances. Some dietary supplements may contain ingredients that are contraindicated in children. Before using dietary supplements in children, it is necessary to consult a pediatrician.
People with chronic diseases: People with chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, liver and kidney diseases should be especially careful when taking dietary supplements. Bades can interact with the drugs that they take and enhance or weaken their effect. In addition, some dietary supplements can have a toxic effect on organs affected by the disease. Before using dietary supplements, people with chronic diseases must be consulted with the attending physician.
People preparing for the operation: Some dietary supplements can affect blood coagulation and increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. People preparing for the operation should stop taking dietary supplements a few weeks before the operation and inform the doctor about all the additives they take.
People with allergies: People with allergies should be especially attentive when studying the composition of dietary supplements and avoid the use of products containing potential allergens.

Section 5: How to choose and use dietary supplements correctly

If you still decide to take dietary supplements, it is important to follow the following recommendations:

Consult a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will help to determine if you have a shortage of any vitamins or minerals, and will advise a suitable dietary supplement. He will also take into account your individual characteristics and possible contraindications.
Choose dietary supplements of famous manufacturers: Give preference to the dietary supplements of famous manufacturers with a good reputation. Avoid buying darts from dubious sellers or on the Internet without checking the authenticity of products.
Carefully study the composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement before buying. Pay attention to the presence of ingredients that can cause an allergic reaction in you or interact with the drugs you take.
Check the availability of a certificate: Check the presence of a certificate of conformity for dietary supplements. This guarantees that the product meets safety and quality requirements.
Follow the recommended dosages: Follow the recommended dosages indicated on the pack of dietary supplements. Do not exceed the dose, even if it seems to you that this will enhance the effect.
Do not take dietary supplements for too long: Do not take dietary supplements for too long without consulting a doctor. The long -term reception of some dietary supplements can lead to side effects.
Tell the doctor about the admission of dietary supplements: Tell the doctor about all your dietary supplements, especially if you are undergoing any treatment.
Be critical to advertising: Be critical to advertising dietary supplements. Do not believe the promises of an instant cure for all diseases. Remember that dietary supplements are additives to the diet, not medicines.
Do not replace dietary supplements with full food: Do not replace dietary supplements with full nutrition. Try to adhere to a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
Follow your condition: Follow your condition while receiving dietary supplements. If you notice any side effects, stop taking a dietary supplement and consult a doctor.

Section 6: Alternative approaches to maintaining health

Instead of relying on dietary supplements, there are more effective and safe ways to maintain health:

Balanced nutrition: The basis of a healthy lifestyle is a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat protein and healthy fats. Try to receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals from food.
Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises help maintain health of the cardiovascular system, strengthen bones and muscles, reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve mood.
Healthy sleep: Healthy sleep is necessary to restore the body and maintain immunity. Try to sleep 7-8 hours a day.
Stress management: Stress can negatively affect health. Learn to manage stress using meditation, yoga, breathing exercises or other relaxation techniques.
Refusal of bad habits: Refuse smoking and alcohol abuse. These bad habits cause serious damage to health.
Regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations help identify diseases in the early stages and start treatment in a timely manner.
Prevention of diseases: Follow the prevention measures of infectious diseases, such as vaccination and compliance with hygiene rules.

Section 7: Conclusion (not included, as indicated in the task)

Section 8: Recommendations to consumers and politicians

Recommendations to consumers:

Critical thinking: Always critically evaluate information about dietary supplements, especially advertising statements. Do not believe the promises of instant healing.
Informed choice: Study the composition, manufacturer and product reviews before buying. Look for independent sources of information, not just the advertising materials of the manufacturer.
Consultation with a doctor: Never start taking a dietary supplement without consulting a doctor, especially if you have chronic diseases, allergies or you take medicines.
Beware of fakes: Buy dietary supplements only in proven places, such as pharmacies or official online stores of manufacturers. Check the presence of a certificate of conformity.
Report side effects: If you notice any side effects after taking Bad, immediately stop taking it and consult a doctor. Replace the side effect in Rospotrebnadzor.
Do not believe myths: Remember that dietary supplements are not medicines and do not replace good nutrition and medical treatment.
Moderation: Take dietary supplements only if necessary and in the recommended dosages. Do not exceed the dose in the hope of the best effect.
Healthy lifestyle: Focus on a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical exercises and sufficient sleep.

Recommendations to politicians and regulatory authorities:

Tightening of regulation: It is necessary to tighten the requirements for registration, production and marking of dietary supplements.
More strict control: Strengthen control over the composition of the dietary supplement and suppress the falsification of products.
Advertising restriction: Limit the advertising of dietary supplements, especially the one that ascribes to them the healing properties.
Increased awareness: Conduct information campaigns to increase the public’s awareness of risks and advantages of dietary supplements.
Improving reporting: Create a system of reporting on the side effects of dietary supplements in order to collect data on unwanted reactions and identify problematic products.
Cooperation: To establish cooperation with international organizations and other countries to exchange experience and advanced practices in the field of dietary supplement regulation.
Scientific research: Maintain scientific research to assess the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements.
Responsibility of manufacturers: Strengthen the responsibility of manufacturers for false information and unsafe products.
Transparency: Ensure the transparency of the process of registration and control of dietary supplements so that consumers can get reliable information about products.
The fight against misinformation: Actively deal with misinformation about dietary supplements on the Internet and other sources.

Section 9: Examples of specific dietary supplements and associated risks

To illustrate the risks associated with dietary supplements, we give several specific examples. It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list, and new risks can occur as new products appear on the market.

Dietary diets for weight loss containing sibutramin: Sibutramin is a drug substance previously used to treat obesity, but recalled from the market due to serious side effects, including an increase in blood pressure, a heart attack and a stroke. Despite the ban, Sibutramin is often found in dietary supplements for weight loss, which are illegally. Consumers who use such dietary supplements subject themselves to serious risk to health.
Bades to increase potency containing sildenafil (Viagra) and other analogues: Sildenafil and its analogues are drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction. Their use requires a doctor’s control, since they can cause side effects, such as headache, dizziness, vision change and interaction with other drugs. Some dietary supplements illegally contain sildenafil or its analogues without indicating the packaging, which can be dangerous for people with cardiovascular diseases or taking nitrates.
Dietary supplements for building muscle mass containing anabolic steroids: Anabolic steroids are synthetic hormones that can contribute to the growth of muscle mass, but have serious side effects, such as acne, hair loss, gynecomastia (breast augmentation in men), aggression, liver damage and cardiovascular diseases. Some dietary supplements for increasing muscle mass illegally contain anabolic steroids without indicating the packaging, which can be dangerous to health.
Bades containing lead, mercury and other heavy metals: Some dietary supplements, especially those produced in countries with less strict quality control, can be contaminated with heavy metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium. Long -term exposure to heavy metals can lead to various health problems, including damage to the nervous system, kidneys and other organs.
Bades containing hepatotoxic plant extracts: Some plant extracts, such as the quarry extract, can have a toxic effect on the liver and cause hepatitis or liver failure. The use of dietary supplements containing these extracts can be dangerous for people with liver diseases or taking other drugs, which also have a toxic effect on the liver.
Bades with probiotics contaminated with pathogenic bacteria: Although probiotics are usually considered healthy intestinal health, some dietary supplements with probiotics can be polluted by pathogenic bacteria, such as Salmonella or E. Coli. The use of such dietary supplements can lead to digestive infections and disorders.

These examples show that the risks associated with dietary supplements can be very serious. Consumers should show special caution when choosing and using dietary supplements and always consult a doctor.

Section 10: The consequences of uncontrolled use of dietary supplements for the healthcare system

The uncontrolled use of dietary supplements can create a serious load on the healthcare system and lead to negative consequences:

Increasing the number of side effects and hospitalizations: Unwanted reactions to dietary supplements, including allergic reactions, toxic damage to organs and interaction with drugs, can lead to an increase in the number of appeals to hospitals and clinics, as well as hospitalization. This creates an additional burden on medical personnel and resources.
Diagnostic difficulty: The use of dietary supplements can complicate the diagnosis of diseases, as they can mask the symptoms or distort the test results. This can lead to a delay in making the correct diagnosis and starting treatment.
Ineffective treatment: The belief that dietary supplements can replace a full treatment can lead to the fact that people put off a doctor or refuse to therapy. This can worsen the prognosis of the disease and lead to serious complications.
Increased healthcare costs: Treatment of side effects of dietary supplements, hospitalization and ineffective treatment lead to an increase in health care costs.
Reducing confidence in medicine: Negative experience associated with the use of ineffective or dangerous dietary supplements can lead to a decrease in trust in medicine and doctors.
Distribution of misinformation: The spread of misinformation about dietary supplement on the Internet and other sources complicates the work of medical workers and complicates the task of informing the population about the risks and advantages of dietary supplements.
Loss of time to search and eliminate the causes of side effects: Doctors spend time finding out the fact of taking dietary supplements by the patient and establishing a connection between dietary supplements and the symptoms that have arisen, which distracts them from the treatment of the underlying diseases.
Increase in cases of self -medicine: The uncontrolled use of dietary supplements contributes to self -medication, which can lead to the wrong choice of drugs and tightening the doctor.

To reduce the negative impact of the uncontrolled use of dietary supplements on the healthcare system, the following measures are needed:

Strengthening regulation and control of the market of dietary supplements.
Increased public awareness of risks and advantages of dietary supplements.
Information about dietary supplements in the training programs for medical workers.
Creating a reporting system for side effects of dietary supplements.
Active opposition to the spread of misinformation about dietary supplements.

Only an integrated approach will protect the population of the population and reduce the load on the healthcare system associated with the uncontrolled use of dietary supplements.

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