Bades: harm to the kidneys and other organs – a comprehensive analysis of potential risks
Section 1: Understanding of dietary supplements – definition, classification and regulation
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Determination of biologically active additives (dietary supplements). Dietary supplements (biologically active additives) are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances designed for direct intake or introduction into food products in order to enrich the rations with individual food or biologically active substances and their complexes. They are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. The main goal of dietary supplements is to maintain the normal function of the body and strengthen health.
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The composition of the dietary supplement: a variety of ingredients. The composition of dietary supplements is extremely diverse. They may contain:
- Vitamins (A, B, C, D, E, K and others)
- Minerals (calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, selenium and others)
- Amino acids (building blocks of proteins)
- Plant extracts (herbs, fruits, vegetables)
- Probiotics and prebiotics (for intestinal health)
- Fatty acids (omega-3, omega-6)
- Enzyme
- Other biologically active substances (antioxidants, flavonoids, carotenoids).
It is important to note that the concentration of these substances in dietary supplements can vary significantly.
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Classification of dietary supplements for purpose and composition. Bades are classified according to various signs:
- By purpose:
- To maintain immunity
- To improve digestion
- To strengthen bones and joints
- To improve the work of the cardiovascular system
- To increase energy and endurance
- To control weight
- To improve cognitive functions
- For the beauty of the skin, hair and nails.
- By composition:
- Vitamin-mineral complexes
- Plant complexes
- Probiotic complexes
- Amino acid complexes
- Fatty acid -based complexes.
This classification helps consumers navigate a wide range of dietary supplements and choose products that meet their needs.
- By purpose:
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Regulatory regulation of dietary supplements in Russia and other countries. The regulation of dietary supplements differs significantly in different countries. In Russia, dietary supplements are regulated by the Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Welfare (Rospotrebnadzor). They undergo state registration, which confirms their safety and compliance with sanitary and epidemiological requirements. However, unlike drugs, dietary supplements are not subjected to clinical trials confirming their effectiveness.
In the United States, dietary supplements are regulated by the sanitary supervision of the quality of food and medicines (FDA) as food products, and not as medicines. This means that FDA does not require preliminary approval of dietary supplements before selling them. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety of their products, but the FDA conducts selective checks and can take measures against dietary supplements recognized as unsafe.
In the European Union (EU), the regulation of dietary supplements is carried out at the national level. However, there is harmonization in relation to some aspects, such as labeling requirements and the use of certain substances.
The weaker regulation of dietary supplements compared to drugs is one of the factors that increase the risk of side effects and undesirable interactions.
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Differences in dietary supplements and medicines: key aspects. The main differences in dietary supplements and medicines:
- Appointment: Bades are designed to maintain health and prevention of diseases, and not for treatment. Medicines are designed to treat, relieve symptoms and prevention of diseases.
- Clinical trials: Medicines undergo strict clinical trials to confirm their effectiveness and safety. Bades, as a rule, are not subjected to such tests.
- Production: The production of drugs is regulated by strict standards (GMP – Good Manufacturing Practice), which ensure the quality and purity of products. The requirements for the production of dietary supplements are less strict.
- Regulation: Medicines are subject to more strict regulation by state bodies than dietary supplements.
- Dosage: The dosage of drugs is carefully controlled and determined by the doctor. The dosage of dietary supplements can be less accurate and vary depending on the manufacturer.
- Evidence base: The effectiveness of drugs is confirmed by the results of clinical studies. The effectiveness of dietary supplements often does not have sufficient scientific support.
These differences emphasize the need for a careful and conscious approach to the use of dietary supplements.
Section 2: risks for kidneys associated with the use of dietary supplements
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Nephrotoxic dietary supplements: direct and indirect influences. The nephrotoxicity of dietary supplements can be caused by various mechanisms:
- Direct toxic action: Some dietary supplements can have a direct toxic effect on kidney cells (tubular cells, glomerular cells). This can lead to damage to the renal tissue and impaired renal function. An example is aristolocolic acid contained in some plant dietary supplements, which is a well -known nephrotoxin.
- Indirect effects through other organs and systems: Some dietary supplements can disrupt the function of other organs and systems (for example, liver, cardiovascular system), which, in turn, can negatively affect the kidneys. For example, dietary supplements containing androgenic steroids can cause fluid retention and an increase in blood pressure, which increases the load on the kidneys.
- Crystal education: Some dietary supplements, especially in high doses, can contribute to the formation of crystals in renal tubules, which leads to their blockage and impaired renal function. For example, excessive consumption of vitamin C can lead to the formation of oxalate stones in the kidneys.
- Medicinal interactions: Bades can interact with drugs taken simultaneously, enhancing their nephrotoxic effect or changing their metabolism, which can negatively affect the kidneys.
Understanding these mechanisms allows you to better assess the potential risks associated with the use of dietary supplements.
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The most dangerous ingredients of dietary supplements for kidneys: a list and characteristics. Some dietary supplements are a particular danger to the kidneys:
- Aristolocholic acid: Contained in some plant dietary supplements (especially in Chinese medicine). It is a powerful nephrotoxin that causes rapidly progressing renal failure and uroterial cancer.
- Creatine: Used to increase muscle mass. It can have a negative effect on the kidneys, especially in people with existing kidney diseases. High doses of creatine can increase the load on the kidneys and lead to their damage.
- High doses of vitamin C: They can contribute to the formation of oxalate stones in the kidneys, especially in people predisposed to stone formation.
- Non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as part of dietary supplements: Sometimes manufacturers add NSAIDs to dietary supplements to relieve pain. Long -term use of NSAIDs can lead to damage to the kidneys and the development of chronic renal failure.
- Heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium): May be contained in dietary supplements produced in violation of technology or from contaminated raw materials. Are nephrotoxins and can lead to kidney damage.
- Androgenic steroids: Used to increase muscle mass and improve sports results. They can cause fluid delay, increased blood pressure and kidney damage.
- Diuretics: Added to dietary supplements for weight loss. They can lead to dehydration, impaired electrolyte balance and kidney damage.
When choosing dietary supplements, it is necessary to carefully study the composition and avoid products containing these dangerous ingredients.
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Kidney diseases caused or aggravated by dietary supplements: specific examples. The use of dietary supplements can cause or aggravate various kidney diseases:
- Acute renal failure (OPP): It can be caused by the direct toxic effect of dietary supplements (for example, aristolocolic acid), the formation of crystals in renal tubules, dehydration (caused by diuretics) or drug interactions.
- Chronic renal failure (KHPN): Long -term use of nephrotoxic dietary supplements (for example, containing aristolocolium acid or NSAIDs) can lead to progressive damage to the kidneys and development of CPN.
- Kidney stone formation (nephrolithiasis): High doses of vitamin C, as well as some plant dietary supplements containing oxalates, can contribute to the formation of kidney stones.
- Tubul -interstitial nephritis: Inflammatory kidney disease, which can be caused by some plant dietary supplements or medicinal interactions.
- Glomerulonephritis: An inflammatory disease of renal glomeruli, which in rare cases may be associated with the use of dietary supplements containing immunostimulants.
These examples emphasize the seriousness of potential risks for the health of the kidneys associated with the use of dietary supplements.
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Risk groups: who should avoid the use of dietary supplements to protect the kidneys. Some groups of people should be especially careful about using dietary supplements and, if possible, avoid them:
- People with existing kidney diseases: The use of dietary supplements can aggravate the course of kidney diseases and accelerate the progression of renal failure.
- People with diabetes sugar: Diabetes is often accompanied by kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy). The use of dietary supplements can increase the risk of kidney damage.
- People with arterial hypertension: Some dietary supplements can increase blood pressure, which increases the load on the kidneys.
- Elderly people: With age, the function of the kidneys decreases, which makes them more vulnerable to the toxic effects of dietary supplements.
- Pregnant and lactating women: The safety of dietary supplements for pregnant women and nursing women has not been often studied. Some dietary supplements can be harmful to the fetus or newborn.
- Children and adolescents: The function of the kidneys in children and adolescents is not yet fully developed, which makes them more susceptible to the toxic effects of dietary supplements.
- People taking drugs: Bades can interact with drugs, enhancing their side effects or reducing their effectiveness.
Representatives of these groups are recommended to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements.
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Symptoms of kidney damage associated with the use of dietary supplements: what to pay attention to. When the following symptoms appear after the start of taking dietary supplements, consult a doctor immediately:
- Change in the amount of urine (decrease or increase).
- Change of urine color (darkening, blood appearance).
- Swelling (especially on the legs, ankles and face).
- Increasing blood pressure.
- The appearance of protein in the urine (proteinuria).
- Low’s pain.
- Fatigue, weakness.
- Nausea, vomiting.
- Skin itching.
These symptoms can indicate kidney damage and require immediate medical care.
Section 3: The effect of dietary supplements on other organs and body systems
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Hepatotoxic dietary supplements: harm to the liver. The liver is the main organ that metabolizing many substances, including the ingredients of dietary supplements. Therefore, the liver is especially vulnerable to the toxic effects of dietary supplements. Hepatotoxic dietary supplements can manifest itself in the form:
- Increasing the level of hepatic enzymes (ALT, AST, GGTP).
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and sclera).
- Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver).
- Liver failure.
- Cholestasis (violation of the outflow of bile).
The most dangerous for the liver are dietary supplements containing:
- Anabolic steroid.
- Plant extracts containing pyrrolisidine alkaloids.
- High doses of vitamin A.
- Green tea in high concentrations.
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Cardiovascular risks: the effect of dietary supplements on the heart and blood vessels. Some dietary supplements can have a negative impact on the cardiovascular system:
- Improving blood pressure: Bades containing stimulants (for example, caffeine, ephedrine), androgenic steroids or sodium can increase blood pressure, increasing the risk of hypertension, stroke and myocardial infarction.
- Cardiac rhythm (arrhythmia): Bades containing stimulants or electrolytes (for example, potassium, magnesium) can cause arrhythmia, especially in people with heart diseases.
- Improving cholesterol levels: Some dietary supplements containing saturated fats or cholesterol can increase blood cholesterol, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.
- Increasing the risk of thrombosis: Bades containing vitamin K or estrogen can increase the risk of thrombosis, which can lead to pulmonary artery thromboembolism, stroke and myocardial infarction.
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Influence on the endocrine system: hormonal disorders caused by dietary supplements. Bades containing hormones or substances affecting the hormonal balance can cause endocrine disorders:
- Disorders of the menstrual cycle in women: Dietary supplements containing phytoestrogens (for example, so -red clover) can disrupt the menstrual cycle, cause uterine bleeding and increase the risk of breast cancer.
- Reducing the level of testosterone in men: Bades containing phytoestrogens or substances that block the effect of testosterone can reduce testosterone levels, cause erectile dysfunction and reduce libido.
- Dysfunction of the thyroid gland: Dietary supplements containing iodine in high doses can cause hyperthyroidism (excess hormones of the thyroid gland). Bades containing substances that block the absorption of iodine can cause hypothyroidism (lack of thyroid hormones).
- Violation of the adrenal gland function: Dietary supplements containing adaptogens (for example, ginseng, eleutherococcus) can disrupt the adrenal gland function, causing the signs syndrome (excess cortisol).
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Gastrointestinal disorders: side effects of dietary supplements on the digestive system. Many dietary supplements can cause gastrointestinal disorders:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain: These symptoms can be caused by the irritating effect of dietary supplements on the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Development Dysbiosis: Bades containing antibiotics or substances that suppress the growth of beneficial intestinal microflora can cause dysbiosis, which leads to digestion, bloating and reducing immunity.
- Exacerbation of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, peptic ulcer, colitis): Some dietary supplements can irritate the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, causing an exacerbation of chronic diseases.
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Allergic reactions: components of dietary supplements as potential allergens. Bades may contain various allergens:
- Plant extracts: Many plant extracts can cause allergic reactions (for example, urticaria, Quincke’s edema, anaphylactic shock).
- Dyes and preservatives: Used to improve the appearance and increase the shelf life of dietary supplements. They can cause allergic reactions.
- Pollen: It may be contained in dietary supplements based on plant materials. It is a strong allergen for people suffering from halfleinosis.
- Mollusks and crustaceans: Used for the production of dietary supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin. Are strong allergens.
Section 4: Interaction of dietary supplements with drugs: dangerous combinations and consequences
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Mechanisms of the interaction of dietary supplements and drugs: pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic aspects. The interaction of dietary supplements and medicines can occur according to different mechanisms:
- Pharmacokinetic interactions: Influence the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of drugs.
- Influence on absorption: Some dietary supplements can reduce or increase the absorption of drugs in the gastrointestinal tract. For example, dietary supplements containing fiber can reduce the absorption of drugs taken simultaneously.
- Influence on metabolism: Some dietary supplements can affect the activity of enzymes that metabolizing drugs in the liver. For example, St. John’s wort can enhance the activity of the CYP3A4 enzyme, which leads to accelerated metabolism and a decrease in the effectiveness of many drugs.
- Influence on excretion: Some dietary supplements can affect the excretion of medicines by kidneys. For example, dietary supplements that increase the acidity of urine can accelerate the excretion of drugs, which are weak bases.
- Pharmacodynamic interactions: Affect the effect of drugs on the body.
- Synergism: Bad and the drug enhance each other’s effect. For example, the simultaneous intake of dietary supplements containing anticoagulants (for example, garlic, ginko biloba), and anticoagulant warfarin can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Antagonism: Bad weakens the effect of the drug. For example, a dietary supplement containing vitamin K can weaken the effect of the anticoagulant of warfarin.
- Additative effect: Bad and the drug have the same effect on the body. For example, the simultaneous intake of dietary supplements that increase blood pressure and a drug that increases blood pressure can lead to an excessive increase in blood pressure.
- Pharmacokinetic interactions: Influence the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of drugs.
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The most dangerous combinations of dietary supplements and drugs: examples and consequences. Some combinations of dietary supplements and medicines are a particular danger:
- Warfarin and dietary supplements containing vitamin K, garlic, ginko biloba, ginseng: Increase the risk of bleeding or reduce the effectiveness of warfarin.
- Antidepressants (SIOOS) and dietary supplements containing St. John’s wort: They can cause serotonin syndrome (a state characterized by excitement, tremor, fever and other symptoms).
- Medicines for the treatment of HIV infection and dietary supplements containing St. John’s wort: Reduce the effectiveness of drugs for HIV infection.
- Antidiabetic drugs and dietary supplements containing chrome, cinnamon, ginseng: They can cause hypoglycemia (decreased blood sugar).
- Preparations for the treatment of thyroid diseases and dietary supplements containing iodine or soy: They can disrupt the function of the thyroid gland.
- Diuretics and dietary supplements containing potassium: They can cause hyperkalemia (increasing the level of potassium in the blood).
- Statins (drugs for reduction of cholesterol) and dietary supplements containing red yeast rice: Increase the risk of myopathy (muscle damage).
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How to avoid dangerous interactions: recommendations for consumers and doctors. To avoid dangerous interactions of dietary supplements and medicines, you need:
- Inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements: The doctor should know about all the dietary supplements that you accept in order to evaluate potential risks of interaction with drugs.
- Carefully read instructions for drugs and dietary supplements: The instructions may indicate possible interactions with other substances.
- Avoid the simultaneous administration of dietary supplements and medicines, if this is not recommended by a doctor: If it is necessary to take dietary supplements and the drug at the same time, it is necessary to observe the interval between the techniques.
- Do not use dietary supplements whose efficiency and safety are not proved: The risk of interaction with drugs is higher in dietary supplements containing a large number of ingredients or ingredients with unproven effectiveness.
- Remember that “natural” does not always mean “safe”: Plant dietary supplements may contain substances that interact with drugs.
- Regularly monitor the state of health while taking dietary supplements and medicines: When any side effects appear, you must immediately consult a doctor.
- For doctors: actively ask patients about the use of dietary supplements and take into account possible interactions when prescribing medicines.
Section 5: unfair advertising and falsification of dietary supplements: how to recognize and protect yourself
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The common techniques of unscrupulous advertising of dietary supplements: promises of unrealistic results, the use of pseudo -scientific arguments. Unscrupulous manufacturers and sellers of dietary supplements often use the following techniques to attract customers:
- Promises of unreal results: The allegations that dietary supplements can cure incurable diseases, rejuvenate the body, quickly lose weight without diets and physical exercises, increase intelligence, etc.
- Using pseudo -scientific arguments: References to “unique developments”, “secret formulas”, “ancient recipes”, “quantum physics” and other pseudo -scientific concepts to give the product to the appearance of scientific.
- Using the reviews of “experts” and “doctors”: The publication of fake reviews from supposedly doctors and experts who advertise dietary supplements and claim their effectiveness.
- Creating a feeling of deficit and urgency: The allegations that the amount of goods is limited or that the share will end soon in order to force buyers to make a decision on the purchase quickly.
- Using emotional pressure: Operation of fears and hopes of people suffering from diseases or have health problems.
- Lack of clear information about the composition and manufacturer: An indication of the incomplete or inaccurate composition of the dietary supplement, the lack of data about the manufacturer or an indication of the fictional manufacturer.
- Aggressive marketing on the Internet and social networks: The use of spam, intrusive advertising and fake accounts to promote dietary supplements.
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Falsification of dietary supplements: fake composition, adding prohibited substances. Falsification of dietary supplements is a serious problem that poses a threat to consumer health. The most common types of falsification:
- Fents of the composition: Replacing expensive ingredients with cheap analogues or adding ballast substances (for example, starch, cellulose).
- Adding prohibited substances: Adding drugs (for example, steroids, diuretics, sibutramine) to dietary supplements to achieve a quick effect. Consumers do not know about the presence of these substances and may encounter serious side effects.
- The inconsistency of the declared and actual content of the ingredients: The real content of active substances in the dietary supplement may differ significantly from the declared on the package.
- Pollution of dietary supplements with heavy metals, pesticides and other toxic substances: The use of poor -quality raw materials or violation of production technology can lead to contamination of dietary supplements.
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Signs of fake and poor -quality dietary supplements: how to recognize the danger. You can recognize a fake or poor -quality dietary supplement on the following signs:
- Low price: If the price of dietary supplements is much lower than that of similar products of other manufacturers, this may be a sign of fake.
- Lack of information about the manufacturer or incomplete information: The absence of the name and address of the manufacturer on the package, an indication of the fictional manufacturer.
- Fuzzy or poorly readable marking: Errors in spelling, poor -quality seal, lack of information about the party number and expiration date.
- Suspicious smells and tastes: An unpleasant odor, unusual taste, change of color or consistency of the product.
- Lack of documentation: The inability to receive a certificate of conformity or other documents confirming the quality and safety of Bad from the seller.
- Suspicious reviews and advertising: Unrealistic promises, the use of pseudo -scientific arguments, aggressive marketing.
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How to protect yourself from the acquisition of fake and poor -quality dietary supplements: recommendations for consumers. To protect yourself from the acquisition of fake and poor -quality dietary supplements, you need:
- Buy dietary supplements only in proven places: Pharmacies, specialized stores, online stores with a good reputation.
- Carefully check the packaging and marking of goods: Pay attention to the availability of information about the manufacturer, composition, expiration date, party number and certificate of conformity.
- Do not buy dietary supplements at a suspiciously low price: A quality product cannot be too cheap.
- Do not believe the promises of unreal results and aggressive advertising: Critically evaluate the information provided by sellers.
- Consult a doctor before starting dietary supplements: The doctor will help you choose a safe and effective dietary supplement, taking into account your individual needs and health status.
- To report on cases of sales of fake or low -quality dietary supplements to Rospotrebnadzor and other regulatory authorities.
Section 6: Scientific research and evidence -based base for safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements
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A review of scientific research on the influence of dietary supplements on kidneys and other organs. Scientific studies devoted to the influence of dietary supplements on kidneys and other organs are few and often have restrictions. Many studies are conducted on animals or have a small sample size. However, the available data indicate that some dietary supplements can have a negative effect on health:
- Aristolocholic acid: Numerous studies confirm the nephrotoxicity and carcinogenicity of aristolocolic acid.
- Creatine: Studies show that high doses of creatine can increase the load on the kidneys and lead to damage to people with kidney diseases.
- Vitamin C: Studies show that high doses of vitamin C can contribute to the formation of oxalate stones in the kidneys.
- Plant dietary supplements: Some plant dietary supplements can have a hepatotoxic effect, cause allergic reactions and interact with drugs.
- Dietary diets for weight loss: Studies show that many dietary supplements are ineffective and can have a negative impact on the cardiovascular system and other organs.
Further research is needed to assess the safety and efficiency of dietary supplements.
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Problems with high -quality dietary supplements: ethical, methodological and financial aspects. High -quality dietary supplements are associated with a number of problems:
- Ethical aspects: It is difficult to conduct placebo-controlled research of dietary supplements if it is already known that they can have a negative effect on health.
- Methodological aspects: It is difficult to standardize the composition of dietary supplements, as it can vary depending on the manufacturer and the party. It is difficult to evaluate the long -term effects of dietary supplements.
- Financial aspects: Conducting high -quality clinical research requires significant financial costs. Bad manufacturers are often not interested in financing such research, since the results can be unfavorable for their business.
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Place of dietary supplements in evidence -based medicine: restrictions and prospects. Currently, dietary supplements do not occupy a strong place in evidence -based medicine. Most dietary supplements do not have a sufficient scientific base confirming their effectiveness and safety. However, some dietary supplements can be useful in certain situations (for example, vitamin D with vitamin D deficiency, folic acid when planning pregnancy). It is important that the appointment of dietary supplements is based on the principles of evidence -based medicine and take into account individual needs and the patient’s health status.
Section 7: Alternative approaches to maintaining health and preventing diseases
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Balanced nutrition as a basis for health: the principles of a healthy diet. A balanced diet is the basis for the health and prevention of diseases. The principles of a healthy diet:
- Variety: The use of a wide range of products from all food groups (vegetables, fruits, grains, dairy products, meat, fish, legumes, nuts, seeds).
- Moderation: Eating in moderate quantities, do not overeat.
- Regularity: Eating at the same time every day.
- Consumption restriction: Limiting the consumption of products containing a lot of sugar, salt, saturated fats and trans fats.
- Sufficient water consumption: The use of a sufficient amount of water (1.5-2 liters per day).
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Physical activity and sport: role in maintaining health and preventing diseases. Regular physical activity and sports play an important role in maintaining health and preventing diseases:
- Improving the cardiovascular system: Reducing the risk of developing hypertension, stroke and