Bad and kidneys: danger to the urinary system

Bad and kidneys: danger to the urinary system

Section 1: kidneys – filters of life and their vulnerability

The kidneys are a paired organ located in the lumbar region, which plays a key role in maintaining the homeostasis of the body. They perform vital functions, including:

• Blood filtering: The kidneys remove metabolic products, toxins, excess salts and water from the blood, forming urine. This process occurs in millions of nephrons, functional units of the kidneys, each of which consists of a glomerulus and a canal system. Glumber is a network of capillaries where filtration occurs, and tubules reabsorbit the necessary substances (glucose, amino acids, electrolytes) and secrete unnecessary ones.
• Regulation of blood pressure: The kidneys produce renin, a hormone involved in the regulation of blood pressure through a renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).
• Maintaining electrolyte balance: The kidneys control the level of electrolytes in the blood, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, providing the normal function of the nervous and muscle systems.
• Hormone production: The kidneys synthesize erythropoetin that stimulates the formation of red blood cells in the bone marrow, and the active form of vitamin D necessary for the absorption of calcium and bone health.
• Regulation of the acid-base balance: The kidneys emit acids and alkalis, maintaining blood pH in a narrow range necessary for the normal operation of enzymes and cell processes.

The vulnerability of the kidneys is due to their complex structure and high metabolic activity. They are constantly exposed to various factors that can disrupt their function, including infections, toxins, autoimmune processes, genetic anomalies and, most importantly, drugs and biologically active additives (dietary supplements).

Damage to the kidneys can be asymptomatic in the early stages, which complicates the timely diagnosis and treatment. Chronic kidney disease (CBP) develops gradually and can lead to the terminal stage of renal failure, requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation.

Section 2: What is dietary supplements: boundaries between safety and risk

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are products designed to eat along with food or adding to food and representing concentrates of natural or identical biologically active substances. They are produced in various forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, liquids and others.

Bades differ from drugs in that they do not undergo strict clinical trials necessary to confirm their effectiveness and safety. The regulation of dietary supplements is less rigid than the regulation of drugs, which leads to problems related to the quality, composition and labeling of products.

Dietary supplements are often positioned as means to strengthen health, improve sports results, reduce weight and prevent diseases. However, despite the apparent harmlessness, they can pose a serious threat to health, especially for kidneys.

There are several categories of dietary supplements that are potentially dangerous for the kidneys:

• Dietary diets for weight loss: Many of these additives contain diuretics (diuretics), laxatives, stimulants and other ingredients that can disturb the electrolyte balance, cause dehydration and damage the kidneys. Some contain prohibited substances, such as sibutramine, which can increase blood pressure and kidney load.
• Bades for bodybuilding and raising sports results: Creatine, anabolic steroids, protein additives and other means used to increase muscle mass and strength can have a negative effect on the kidneys. Creatine can increase the level of creatinine in the blood, which can imitate renal failure. Anabolic steroids can cause glomerulosclerosis (scarring of glomeruli of the kidneys) and proteinuria (the isolation of protein in urine). Excessive protein consumption can increase the load on the kidneys, especially in people with existing kidney diseases.
• Plant dietary supplements: Some herbs and plant extracts, traditionally used in folk medicine, can be nephrotoxic. Examples are aristolic acid contained in some Chinese herbs, and a tissue. It is important to remember that “natural” does not always mean “safe”.
• Vitamins and minerals in high doses: Excessive consumption of some vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium and potassium, can lead to the formation of stones in the kidneys and other kidney problems.
• Bades containing heavy metals: Some dietary supplements, especially those produced in countries with insufficient quality control, can be polluted by heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium and arsenic, which are nephrotoxic.

Section 3: Mechanisms of the nephrotoxicity of dietary supplements

Bad can damage the kidneys in various ways:

• Direct toxic effects: Some components of dietary supplements can directly damage the kidney cells, causing acute tubular necrosis (TO), interstitial nephritis and other forms of renal damage.
• Crystal education: Some substances contained in dietary supplements can form crystals in the urinary tract, which leads to the formation of stones in the kidneys (nephrolytiasis) and obstruction of the urinary tract. Examples are oxalates, purines and phosphates.
• Immuno -mediated damage: In rare cases, dietary supplements can cause an immune response leading to glomerulonephritis or interstitial jade.
• Violation of the electrolyte balance: Diuretics and laxatives contained in some dietary supplements can cause dehydration, hypokalemia (low blood potassium in the blood) and other electrolyte disorders that can damage the kidneys.
• Improving blood pressure: Stimulants and other components of dietary supplements can increase blood pressure by increasing the load on the kidneys and contributing to the development of hypertension.
• Rabdomiolysis: Some dietary supplements, especially those used for bodybuilding, can cause rabdomyolysis – the destruction of muscle cells, leading to the release of myoglobin into the blood. Mioglobin can damage the kidneys, causing acute tubular necrosis.

Section 4: specific dietary supplements and their potential danger to the kidneys

Consider some specific dietary supplements and their potential negative impact on the kidneys:

• Creatine: Creatine is a popular bodybuilding additive used to increase muscle mass and strength. It can increase the level of creatinine in the blood, which can simulate renal failure. Although creatine is usually considered safe for healthy people, it can be dangerous for people with existing kidney diseases. In them, he can accelerate the progression of HBP.
• Anabolic steroid: Anabolic steroids are synthetic testosterone derivatives used to increase muscle mass and strength. They can cause glomerulosclerosis (scarring of glomeruli of the kidneys), proteinuria (excretion of protein in urine) and increasing blood pressure. Long -term use of anabolic steroids can lead to CBP and the terminal stage of renal failure.
• Protein supplements: Excessive protein consumption can increase the load on the kidneys, especially in people with existing kidney diseases. High -protein diets can accelerate the progression of CBP and lead to proteinuria. People with kidney diseases should limit the intake of protein in accordance with the recommendations of the doctor.
• Aristol -hideous acid: Aristoloic acid is a nephrotoxic substance contained in some Chinese herbs used in traditional medicine. It can cause aristol -hide nephropathy, a rapidly progressing form of CBP, which can lead to the terminal stage of renal failure. The use of dietary supplements containing aristolochic acid is prohibited in many countries, but they can still be available in some regions.
• Hopic: A tissue is a plant that is traditionally used to treat wounds and bone fractures. However, it contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic. The use of a trench can lead to a veno -oxyal liver disease and kidney damage.
• Diuretics: Diuretics (diuretics) are often contained in dietary supplements for weight loss. They can cause dehydration, electrolyte disorders and kidney damage. Long -term use of diuretics can lead to CBP.
• Vitamin C: Excessive consumption of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can lead to the formation of oxalate stones in the kidneys. People prone to the formation of kidney stones should limit the consumption of vitamin C.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium and bone health. However, excessive consumption of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (high level of calcium in the blood), which can damage the kidneys and lead to the formation of stones in the kidneys.
• Potassium: Potassium is necessary for the normal function of the nervous and muscle systems. However, excessive potassium consumption can be dangerous for people with kidney diseases, since the kidneys cannot effectively remove excess potassium from the body. Hyperkalemia (high level of potassium in the blood) can lead to cardiac arrhythmia and even death.
• Calcium: Excessive calcium consumption can lead to hypercalcemia and the formation of calcium stones in the kidneys. People prone to the formation of kidney stones should limit calcium consumption and make sure that they receive enough liquids.
• Bades containing heavy metals: Some dietary supplements, especially those produced in countries with insufficient quality control, can be polluted by heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium and arsenic. These heavy metals are nephrotoxic and can cause kidney damage.

Section 5: Factors that increase the risk of kidney damage from dietary supplements

Some factors can increase the risk of kidney damage from dietary supplements:

• Existing kidney diseases: People with already existing kidney diseases, such as HBP, are more susceptible to the nephrotoxic effects of dietary supplements. Even small doses of nephrotoxic substances can aggravate renal failure.
• Age: The kidneys of the elderly are less effective in filtering blood and removing toxins, which makes them more vulnerable to damage.
• Dehydration: Dehydration can increase the concentration of toxic substances in the urine and damage the kidneys.
• Related diseases: People with concomitant diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension and heart failure, can be more susceptible to damage to the kidneys from dietary supplements.
• Reception of several dietary supplements at the same time: Reception of several dietary supplements can simultaneously increase the risk of interaction between them and enhance their toxic effects on the kidneys.
• Insufficient information about the composition of the dietary supplement: Lack of information about the composition of dietary supplements complicates the assessment of its safety and potential risk for the kidneys.

Section 6: Symptoms and diagnosis of kidney damage caused by dietary supplements

Symptoms of damage to the kidneys caused by dietary supplements can be diverse and nonspecific, especially in the early stages. They can include:

• Changes in urination: An increase or decrease in urination, a change in urine color (dark, bloody), the appearance of foam in the urine.
• Swelling: Swelling of the legs, ankles, faces.
• Improving blood pressure: Headaches, dizziness.
• Fatigue and weakness: A sense of constant fatigue and weakness.
• Nausea and vomiting: Loss of appetite.
• Low’s pain: Pain in the kidney area.
• Skin itching: Itching of the skin.

Diagnosis of damage to the kidneys caused by dietary supplements may include:

• Blood tests: Determination of the level of creatinine, urea, electrolytes and other indicators characterizing the function of the kidneys.
• Urine analysis: Determination of protein, blood, glucose and other substances in the urine.
• Kidney ultrasound: Assessment of sizes, structure and blood flow of kidneys.
• Kidney biopsy: Taking a model of kidney tissue for microscopic examination.

It is important to inform the doctor about taking any dietary supplements, especially if you have any symptoms indicating kidney damage.

Section 7: Treatment and prevention of kidney damage caused by dietary supplements

Treatment of damage to the kidneys caused by dietary supplements depends on the severity of the damage and the cause of its occurrence. It may include:

• Continuation of dietary supplement: The first and most important step is the cessation of dietary supplements that caused the kidney damage.
• Supporting therapy: It includes rehydration (replenishment of fluid), correct electrolyte disorders, control of blood pressure and treatment of concomitant diseases.
• Medication: In some cases, drugs may be required to reduce inflammation, protect the kidneys and improve their function.
• Dialysis: In severe cases, renal failure may require dialysis to purify blood from toxins and maintain water-electrolyte balance.
• Kidney transplantation: In the terminal stage of renal failure, kidney transplantation may require.

Prevention of damage to the kidneys caused by dietary supplements includes:

• Conscious choice of dietary supplements: Carefully study the information about the composition of the dietary supplement, its effectiveness and safety before the start of the reception.
• Consultation with a doctor: Consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements, especially if you have any kidney diseases or other related diseases.
• Avoid taking several dietary supplements at the same time: Reception of several dietary supplements can simultaneously increase the risk of interaction between them and enhance their toxic effects on the kidneys.
• Follow the recommended dosages: Do not exceed the recommended dosages of dietary supplements.
• Drink enough liquids: Support adequate hydration by drinking a sufficient amount of liquid during the day.
• Conduct medical examinations regularly: Pass medical examinations regularly and take blood and urine tests to control the function of the kidneys.
• Be especially careful with dietary supplements for weight loss and bodybuilding: These dietary supplements often contain ingredients that can be dangerous for kidneys.
• Tell the doctor about the admission of dietary supplements: Tell the doctor about taking any dietary supplements when prescribing drugs to avoid possible interactions.

Section 8: Legal aspects of dietary supplement regulation and consumer protection

The legal regulation of dietary supplements is significantly different from the regulation of drugs. In most countries, the regulation of dietary supplements is less rigid, which leads to problems related to the quality, composition and labeling of products.

In Russia, the regulation of dietary supplements is carried out by the Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Welfare (Rospotrebnadzor). Bades are subject to state registration, after which the manufacturer receives a certificate of state registration (SGR), confirming the compliance of the products with security requirements.

However, despite the presence of a registration system, you can still find dietary supplements that do not meet the safety requirements or contain not declared ingredients. This is due to the fact that Rospotrebnadzor does not conduct strict clinical trials of dietary supplements before registering and does not constant control over their quality after entering the market.

Consumer protection from poor -quality and dangerous dietary supplements is an important task. Consumers are entitled to receive reliable information about the composition, properties and safety of dietary supplements. In case of harm to health as a result of the use of poor -quality dietary supplements, the consumer has the right to compensate for losses in accordance with the legislation of the Russian Federation.

It is important to pay attention to the marking of dietary supplements, which should contain the following information:

• Product
• The composition of the product
• Food value
• Best before date
• Storage conditions
• Name and address of the manufacturer
• Number SGR
• Recommendations for use

Consumers can also apply to Rospotrebnadzor with a complaint about poor -quality or dangerous dietary supplements.

Section 9: Alternative approaches to maintaining kidney health

Instead of relying on dietary supplements that can be dangerous for kidneys, there are safer and effective ways to maintain kidney health:

• Healthy nutrition: Balanced diet with salt, sugar and saturated fats. The use of a large amount of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Maintaining adequate hydration: Drink a sufficient amount of fluid during the day to ensure the normal functioning of the kidneys.
• Control of blood pressure: Regularly measure blood pressure and take measures to reduce it if it is increased.
• Blood sugar control: If you have diabetes, thoroughly control the blood sugar level to prevent kidney damage.
• Refusal of smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels, including in the kidneys.
• Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises help maintain healthy weight and blood pressure, which is useful for kidneys.
• Avoid taking nephrotoxic drugs: If possible, avoid taking nephrotoxic drugs, such as non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), without a doctor’s prescription.
• Regular medical examinations: Pass medical examinations regularly and take blood and urine tests to control the function of the kidneys.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the best way to protect your kidneys and prevent the development of kidney diseases. Avoid taking dietary supplements that can be dangerous for your kidneys, and consult your doctor before taking any new additives.