Biologically active supplements (BAAs) are not medicines. Although taking them will not replace healthy food, they will help to supplement it with useful components necessary for the full functioning of the body.
What are dietary supplements?
Dietary supplements are natural or identical to natural substances that should be consumed in food to obtain some health benefits. Biological supplements include: multivitamins, mineral complexes, echinacea extract, omega 3, chondoprotectors and immunomodulators.
In developed countries, dietary supplements have long been an integral part of the lives of millions of people. Experts predict that the market of nutritional supplements in the next 5 years will reach the mark of 260 billion dollars.
Are dietary supplements really good for health?
Since dietary supplements are not medicines, they are sold over-the-counter. In addition, there are practically no substances with proven therapeutic properties in the composition of dietary supplements. Therefore, they can neither prevent nor cure any disease. The effectiveness of most dietary supplements is not confirmed by clinical tests, but at the same time, it is worth noting that there is evidence of harm from uncontrolled supplementation.
Take, for example, multivitamins. They may contain more than 10 components. But do you need them exactly? For prevention, such vitamins are not recommended to take, because there are a number of studies showing the harm of uncontrolled multivitamin intake. In addition, it is not uncommon for people to prescribe vitamins for themselves and often do not follow the rules of taking them or use them for a long time – “just in case”.
If you are already taking supplements, remember the importance of adhering to dosages. For example, too much beta-carotene increases the risk of lung cancer in smokers. And high intake of dietary calcium and vitamin D increases the risk of kidney stones.
There is a myth that some supplements can prevent the development of serious diseases. Many people take multivitamins, vitamins C, D, calcium to prevent cardiovascular disease. But their effectiveness in treating and/or preventing these diseases has not been proven.
Dietary supplements and dietary supplements can be helpful for people with specific medical conditions. For example, if you have osteoporosis, your doctor may prescribe an extra dose of vitamin D and calcium. Vitamins are also needed for people with Crohn’s disease or those with celiac disease who have difficulty digesting food.
For healthy people, the best option for providing the body with nutrients and minerals is a healthy and balanced diet. No supplement can replace a balanced diet. Therefore, even if you take supplements, do not forget about healthy food. After all, it should be the main source of useful substances.
If you decide to take dietary and/or bioactive supplements, it is better to consult a doctor. Remember that some supplements interact with medications, which can have undesirable and even dangerous consequences for the body. And when prescribing medications at another doctor’s appointment, be sure to mention what supplements you are taking.
