Dietary diets for weight loss: contraindications and side effects

Chapter 1: General idea of ​​dietary supplements for weight loss

1.1 What is dietary supplements?

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 drugs, but are designed to replenish the deficiency of nutrients, maintain the functions of organs and systems, increase the adaptive capabilities of the body and improve the overall state of health.

Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not go through strict clinical trials and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Their main goal is to maintain health and prevention. The regulation of dietary supplements in different countries varies, but in most cases they are subject to registration or notification in the relevant control bodies. However, the degree of control and the requirements for the evidence base of efficiency and safety are much lower than for drugs.

1.2 variety of dietary dietary

The market for weight loss is huge and offers a wide range of products that promise a quick and easy way to get rid of excess weight. These additives are often positioned as “fat burners,” “calorie blockers,” “suppressors of appetite,” or “detox-tool.” The composition of these products may vary depending on the proposed mechanism of action.

Some of the most common categories of dietary supplements include:

• Thermogenics: Contain substances that increase body temperature and accelerate metabolism, such as caffeine, green tea extract, synephrine.
• Carbohydrates and fat blockers: Contain substances that prevent the absorption of carbohydrates or fats in the intestines, such as chitosan, pheasolamine.
• Suppliers of appetite: Contain substances that create a feeling of satiety or affect hormones that regulate appetite, such as glucmannan, 5-HTP.
• Diuretics and laxatives: They cause increased excretion of fluids and/or accelerate intestinal motility, such as Senna, Krushin, parsley.
• L-Carnitin: The amino acid involved in the transport of fatty acids in mitochondria for energy production.
• Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA): Polyunsaturated fatty acid, presumably contributing to a decrease in the fat mass and an increase in muscle mass.
• Extracts of plants and herbs: Various extracts, such as Garcinia Cambodia, Guarana, Forscolin, which are claimed to have fat -burning or metabolic properties.

1.3 Act mechanisms: alleged and real

The mechanisms of action of dietary supplements for weight loss are often exaggerated or based on insufficient scientific justification. Manufacturers may indicate the results of in vitro studies (in a test tube) or animals that are not necessarily confirmed in clinical studies in humans. It is important to understand that the effect of dietary supplement on the human body can be difficult and depend on many factors, including the dosage, individual characteristics of metabolism, concomitant diseases and the drugs taken.

Here are some of the alleged mechanisms of action and their critical assessment:

• Acceleration of metabolism (thermogenesis): Some substances, such as caffeine, can really temporarily increase metabolism and increase calorie consumption. However, the effect is usually insignificant and can be accompanied by side effects, such as increased heartbeat, anxiety and insomnia.
• Blocking the absorption of fats and carbohydrates: Chitosan, for example, binds fats in the intestines, preventing their absorption. However, the effectiveness of this mechanism is limited, and most of the fats are still absorbed. Similarly, carbohydrate blockers can slightly reduce carbohydrate absorption, but can cause discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Suppression of appetite: Glucomannan, being a soluble fiber, swells in the stomach, creating a feeling of satiety. However, to achieve a noticeable effect, it is necessary to take large doses that can cause bloating and other digestive problems. Other substances affecting the hormones of appetite can have more serious side effects.
• Fat burning: The concept of “burning fat” directly implies oxidation of fatty acids for energy. Some substances, such as L-carnitine, are involved in this process, but their effect on the actual loss of fat is usually slightly, if not combined with physical exercises and a balanced nutrition.
• Front elimination: Diuretics and laxatives can lead to short -term weight loss by eliminating the fluid and intestinal contents. However, this is not true weight loss and can lead to dehydration and imbalance of electrolytes.

It is important to understand that most dietary supplements for weight loss are not “miraculous pills” and cannot replace a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular physical exercises. The effectiveness of many of them is not proven, and some can even be dangerous to health.

Chapter 2: The main contraindications for reception for weight loss

2.1 General contraindications

Before taking any dietary supplement for losing weight, it is necessary to take into account a number of general contraindications that apply to most additives:

• Pregnancy and lactation period: Most dietary supplements for weight loss are not tested on pregnant and nursing women, so their safety is not established during this period. Reception of such additives can negatively affect the development of the fetus or the health of the baby. It is recommended to avoid taking any dietary supplements for weight loss during pregnancy and breastfeeding, if this is not prescribed by a doctor.
• Children and adolescence: The body of children and adolescents is in the stage of active growth and development, and any intervention in metabolic processes can have unpredictable consequences. Literation dietary supplements are not recommended for people under 18 years of age, with the exception of cases when they are prescribed by a doctor for the treatment of certain diseases.
• Individual intolerance to components: Before taking Bad, you must carefully study the composition of the product and make sure that there are no allergies or individual intolerance to any components. Allergic reactions can appear in the form of a skin rash, itching, Quincke’s edema or even anaphylactic shock.
• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: Dietary dietary supplements, especially those that contain laxative or diuretic components, can aggravate the symptoms of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as gastritis, stomach ulcers, colitis, irritable intestinal syndrome. People with such diseases should avoid taking such additives or take them only under the supervision of a doctor.
• Diseases of the cardiovascular system: Bades containing stimulants, such as caffeine or synephrine, can increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can be dangerous for people with diseases of the cardiovascular system, such as hypertension, arrhythmia, coronary heart disease. Such patients should avoid taking such additives or consult a doctor before using them.
• Kidney and liver diseases: The kidneys and liver play an important role in the elimination of toxins from the body. Reception of dietary supplements for losing weight can create an additional load on these organs and aggravate the symptoms of kidney and liver diseases, such as renal failure, hepatitis, and cirrhosis of the liver. People with such diseases should avoid taking such additives.
• Endocrine diseases: Bades affecting metabolism or hormonal background can be dangerous for people with endocrine diseases such as diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease. For example, dietary supplements containing chrome can affect the blood glucose level, which requires special control in diabetics.
• Mental disorders: Bades containing stimulants or substances affecting the nervous system can aggravate the symptoms of mental disorders, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder. People with such disorders should avoid taking such additives or consult a doctor before using them.
• Taking drugs: Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or increasing side effects. It is especially important to consider interactions with anticoagulants, antidepressants, drugs for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Before taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to inform the doctor about all the drugs taken.

2.2 specific contraindications for various types of dietary supplements

In addition to general contraindications, there are specific contraindications for various types of dietary supplements associated with their composition and mechanism of action:

• Thermogenics (caffeine, green tea extract, Sinefrin): They are contraindicated in hypertension, arrhythmia, anxiety, insomnia, glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, stomach ulcer, prostate diseases.
• Carbohydrates and fat blockers (chitosan, pheasolamine): Contraindicated in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, impaired suction of nutrients, pregnancy and lactation. Chitosan can reduce the absorption of fat -soluble vitamins.
• Suppliers of appetite (Glucomannan, 5-HTP): Contraindicated in intestinal obstruction, dysphagia (dysfunction), pregnancy and lactation. 5-HTP can interact with antidepressants.
• Diuretics and laxatives (Senna, Krushina, parsley): Contraindicated in dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, kidney diseases, pregnancy and lactation. Long -term use can lead to addiction and worsening intestinal function.
• L-Carnitin: It is contraindicated for diseases of the kidneys, epilepsy, hypothyroidism.
• Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA): It is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, liver diseases.
• Extracts of plants and herbs (Garcinia Cambodian, Guarana, Forsscolin): Contraindications depend on a particular plant and its properties. For example, Garcinia Cambodia can be contraindicated in diseases of the liver, guaran – for diseases of the heart, forkolin – with hypotension.

Before taking any dietary supplement, it is necessary to carefully study the instructions for use and take into account all contraindications. If there is any doubt, you should consult a doctor.

Chapter 3: Possible side effects of dietary supplements for weight loss

3.1 General side effects

Side effects of dietary supplements for weight loss can vary depending on the composition of the product, dosage and individual characteristics of the body. Some of the most common general side effects include:

• From the gastrointestinal tract: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, abdominal pain, heartburn. These effects are often associated with the irritating effect of dietary supplements on the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines or with a change in the intestinal microflora.
• From the cardiovascular system: Increased heartbeat, arrhythmia, increase in blood pressure, dizziness, headache. These effects are often associated with stimulants such as caffeine or synephrine.
• From the nervous system: Insomnia, anxiety, nervousness, irritability, tremor, dizziness, headache. These effects are also often associated with stimulants.
• Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema, anaphylactic shock. Allergic reactions can be caused by any dietary supplement component.
• Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance: It can occur when taking diuretics and laxatives. Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, thirst, dizziness, weakness. Electrolyte imbalance can lead to muscle seizures, arrhythmias.

3.2 specific side effects for various types of dietary supplements

In addition to general side effects, there are specific side effects for various types of dietary supplements for weight loss:

• Thermogenics (caffeine, green tea extract, Sinefrin): Increased blood pressure, arrhythmia, insomnia, anxiety, tremor, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, dependence. High doses of caffeine can be dangerous for people with heart diseases. Sinefrin, contained in the extract of a warehouse, can interact with some drugs and cause serious side effects.
• Carbohydrates and fat blockers (chitosan, pheasolamine): Bloating, flatulence, diarrhea, constipation, violation of the absorption of fat -soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), a decrease in blood sugar. Chitosan can bind drugs, reducing their effectiveness.
• Suppliers of appetite (Glucomannan, 5-HTP): Bloating, constipation, diarrhea, intestinal obstruction, decreased blood sugar. 5-HTP can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, dizziness. With simultaneous use with antidepressants, serotonin syndrome (increased sweating, tremor, confusion, fever, fever) can cause.
• Diuretics and laxatives (Senna, Krushina, parsley): Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance (hypokalemia), muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, addiction, worsening intestinal function, intestinal inflammation. Long -term use of laxatives can lead to the development of the “lazy intestine”.
• L-Carnitin: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn, smell of fish from the body, increased excitability, insomnia, cramps (in people with epilepsy).
• Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA): Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, increased blood cholesterol, and a decrease in insulin sensitivity.
• Extracts of plants and herbs (Garcinia Cambodian, Guarana, Forsscolin): Side effects depend on a particular plant and its properties. For example, Garcinia Cambodia can cause headache, nausea, diarrhea, liver damage; Guarana – an increase in blood pressure, arrhythmia, insomnia; Forcoline – a decrease in blood pressure, dizziness.

3.3 serious side effects and risks

In some cases, dietary supplements can cause serious side effects and represent a significant health risk:

• Liver defeat: Some dietary supplements, especially those that contain plant extracts, can cause hepatotoxicity and lead to the development of hepatitis, liver cirrhosis or liver failure.
• Renal failure: Diuretics and laxatives can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which can aggravate the function of the kidneys and lead to the development of renal failure.
• Cardiovascular complications: Stimulants contained in dietary supplements can cause arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, stroke and sudden death, especially in people with heart diseases.
• Mental disorders: Some dietary supplements can aggravate the symptoms of mental disorders, such as anxiety, depression, psychosis.
• Interactions with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or increasing side effects. Interaction with anticoagulants, antidepressants, drugs for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes is especially dangerous.
• The content of prohibited substances: Some dietary supplements may contain prohibited substances, such as sibutramin, which was removed from the market due to serious side effects. Manufacturers may not indicate these substances in the product.
• Lack of quality control: Bades do not undergo strict quality control, like drugs, so the composition of the product may not match the stated on the label. This can lead to unpredictable side effects.

Chapter 4: Intections of dietary supplements for weight loss with drugs

Intections of dietary supplements for weight loss with drugs are a serious problem, since they can change the effectiveness of drugs, enhance their side effects or cause new unwanted reactions. Since dietary supplements are often accepted without consulting a doctor, patients may not know about potential risks.

4.1 Mechanisms of interactions

The interactions of dietary supplements and drugs can occur at different levels:

• Pharmacokinetic interactions: Influence the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of the drug. For example, chitosan can bind drugs in the intestines, reducing their absorption. Some dietary supplements can affect the activity of liver enzymes involved in the metabolism of drugs, changing their concentration in the blood. Diuretics can increase the excretion of drugs with kidneys.
• Pharmacodynamic interactions: Affect the effect of the drug on the body. For example, dietary supplements containing stimulants can enhance the effect of sympathomy (drugs that increase blood pressure) and lead to a hypertensive crisis. Bades that reduce blood sugar can enhance the effect of hypoglycemic drugs and lead to hypoglycemia.

4.2 Examples of interactions

Below are examples of interactions between specific dietary supplements for weight loss and drugs:

• Caffeine and stimulants: They can strengthen the effect of sympathomimetics (for example, pseudo -ephedrin used in anti -industrial drugs), which can lead to an increase in blood pressure, arrhythmia and myocardial infarction. They can also interact with anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding.
• Hitosan: It can bind drugs in the intestines, reducing their absorption. It is especially important to take into account interactions with warfarin (anticoagulant), digoxin (heart glycoside), levotiroxin (thyroid hormone) and some antibiotics.
• 5-HTP: It can interact with antidepressants (especially with selective inhibitors of the reverse capture of serotonin – SIOS and monoaminoxidase inhibitors – IMAO), which can lead to serotonin syndrome.
• Diuretics: They can enhance the effect of antihypertensive drugs (drugs that reduce blood pressure) and lead to hypotension (low arterial pressure). They can also interact with digoxin, increasing the risk of toxicity.
• Laxatives: They can reduce the absorption of drugs and enhance hypokalemia (low blood potassium in the blood), especially with simultaneous intake with diuretics.
• Garcinia Cambodia: It can interact with antidiabetic drugs, enhancing their effect and leading to hypoglycemia.
• Ginseng: It can interact with warfarin, reducing its effectiveness and increasing the risk of thrombosis.
• St. John’s wort is perforated: It can interact with a wide range of drugs, including antidepressants, anticoagulants, contraceptives, antiretroviral drugs and immunosuppressants. St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of these drugs.

4.3 The importance of informing a doctor

Before taking any dietary supplements for weight loss, it is extremely important to consult a doctor and inform him of all the drugs taken, including prescription, over -the -counter and plant agents. The doctor will be able to evaluate potential risks of interactions and give recommendations on the safe use of dietary supplements.

Patients should also carefully read instructions for the use of dietary supplements and drugs and pay attention to warnings about possible interactions. If any side effects occur, consult a doctor immediately.

Chapter 5: Bades regulation and risks of unscrupulous manufacturers

5.1 differences in the regulation of dietary supplements and drugs

The regulation of dietary supplements is significantly different from the regulation of drugs. In most countries, dietary supplements are subject to less strict control than medicines. The main differences include:

• Clinical trials: Medicines should undergo strict clinical trials to confirm their effectiveness and safety. Bades, as a rule, do not require such tests. Manufacturers of dietary supplements are not required to prove their effectiveness, but only safety (to a certain extent).
• Quality control: The production of drugs is regulated by strict standards (GMP – Good Manufacturing Practice), which ensure the quality, purity and identity of products. The quality control of dietary supplements can be less strict, which increases the risk of contamination, falsification and inconsistencies of the composition of the declared on the label.
• Marking: The labels of drugs should contain detailed information about the composition, dosage, indications, contraindications, side effects and interactions. Bad labels may contain less detailed information, and statements about effectiveness may not be confirmed by scientific data.
• Post -Marketing Super: Medicines are carried out by post -marketing supervision to identify and track side effects. For dietary supplements, such supervision can be less intense.

5.2 risks associated with unscrupulous manufacturers

Weak of dietary supplements creates opportunities for unscrupulous manufacturers who can use poor -quality raw materials, add prohibited substances to products, make unreasonable statements about efficiency and mislead consumers. This can be a serious health risk.

The main risks associated with unscrupulous manufacturers of dietary supplements for weight loss include:

• Contamination: Products can be polluted by heavy metals, pesticides, bacteria, fungi or other harmful substances.
• Falsification: Products may contain substances not indicated on the label, or contain ingredients in smaller quantities than stated. This can lead to ineffectiveness of the product or to unpredictable side effects.
• The content of prohibited substances: Products may contain prohibited substances, such as sibuturine, phenolphthalein or anabolic steroids that can cause serious side effects. Manufacturers may not indicate these substances in the product in order to avoid responsibility.
• Unreasonable statements about effectiveness: Manufacturers can make unreasonable statements about the effectiveness of their products not backed up by scientific data. This can mislead consumers and force them to spend money on ineffective and potentially dangerous funds.
• Insufficient risk information: Manufacturers may not provide enough information about possible side effects and interactions with drugs.

5.3 how to choose a safe dietary supplement

To reduce the risk of negative effects of dietary supplements for weight loss on health, the following recommendations should be followed:

• Consult a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement for weight loss, you need to consult a doctor.
• Choose proven brands: Give preference to dietary supplements produced by well -known and reliable companies that have a good reputation and comply with quality standards.
• Study the composition of the product: Read the label carefully and study the composition of the product. Make sure that there are no prohibited substances or ingredients that may be contraindicated to you.
• Check the availability of certificates: Make sure that the product has certificates of conformity confirming its quality and safety.
• Be careful with unreasonable statements: Do not trust products that promise a quick and easy way to lose weight without a diet and physical exercises.
• Report side effects: If you notice any side effects after taking Bad, immediately stop using it and consult a doctor.

Chapter 6: Alternatives for Dietary Dietary Diet

6.1 Healthy diet

Healthy nutrition is the cornerstone of successful and sustainable weight loss. Unlike dietary supplements, who often promise a quick result, healthy diet is aimed at long -term metabolism and the formation of proper food habits.

The basic principles of healthy diet for weight loss include:

• Balanced diet: The diet should contain a sufficient amount of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, as well as vitamins, minerals and fiber.
• Calorie control: For weight loss, it is necessary to create a calorie deficit, consuming less calories than is consumed. However, the deficiency should not be too large so as not to slow down metabolism and not cause a deficiency of nutrients.
• Completely carbohydrates consumption: Give preference to complex carbohydrates (whole grain products, vegetables, fruits), which are slowly digested and provide a prolonged feeling of satiety. Limit the consumption of simple carbohydrates (sweet drinks, sweets, pastries), which quickly increase blood sugar and contribute to the accumulation of fat.
• Useful fat consumption: Include products containing beneficial fats (avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil, fatty fish) in the diet. Limit the consumption of saturated and trans fats contained in fatty meat, dairy products, fast food and processed products.
• Consumption of sufficient amount of protein: Protein is necessary for the construction and restoration of fabrics, as well as to maintain a feeling of satiety. Include low -fat meat, fish, eggs, legumes, tofu, dairy products in the diet.
• Consumption of a sufficient amount of fiber: Fiber promotes digestion, regulates blood sugar and creates a feeling of satiety. Include vegetables, fruits, whole grain products, legumes in the diet.
• Sufficient water consumption: Water is necessary for all processes in the body, including metabolism. Drink enough water during the day (at least 8 glasses).
• Restriction of processed products: Limit the consumption of processed products that often contain many calories, sugar, salt and harmful fats.
• Regular meals: Eat regularly to maintain a stable blood sugar level and prevent overeating.
• Conscious nutrition: Eat slowly and consciously, focusing on the taste and texture of food. Listen to your body and eat only when you are really hungry.

6.2 Physical activity

Physical activity is another important component of successful weight loss. Regular physical exercises help burn calories, increase muscle mass and improve metabolism.

The recommended level of physical activity for adults is at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of high intensity per week. You can choose any type of activity that you like, for example, walking, running, swimming, dancing, cycling, classes in the gym.

It is important to combine aerobic exercises (cardio) with strength exercises. Aerobic exercises help burn calories, and strength exercises help to increase muscle mass, which increases metabolism even at rest.

6.3 Change in lifestyle

Change in lifestyle is a key factor for achieving long -term results in losing weight. This includes the formation of correct food habits, regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep, stress and support from family and friends.

Do not try to change everything at once. Start with small changes and gradually add new habits. Be patient and persistent, and you will certainly succeed.

6.4 Medical approaches to weight loss

In some cases, when diet and physical exercises do not help, medical intervention may be required. Medical approaches to weight loss include:

• Medicines for weight loss: There are drugs that can help reduce weight, but they should be taken only as prescribed by the doctor and under his supervision. These drugs can have side effects.
• Bariatric surgery: Bariatric surgery is a surgical intervention aimed at reducing the size of the stomach or a change in the digestive tract. This can be an effective method for the treatment of obesity, but it is associated with risks and complications.

It is important to remember that medical approaches to weight loss should be considered only in cases where other methods are ineffective.

Chapter 7: Conclusion

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Chapter 8: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

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Chapter 9: links and literature

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