Are vitamins in jelly form really helpful?

Nutritional supplements have gained enormous popularity in recent decades. The manufacturers think creatively, and understand that when it comes to a crowd of small children who have difficulty swallowing capsules and on the other hand – like the sweet taste, additives sold in the form of gummy candies are the ultimate solution, apparently.Today, you can find vitamins, minerals and nutritional supplements in convenient packages and sweet textures that make consumption easier on pharmacy shelves. But experts who have reviewed such products suggest that you consider carefully before consuming them.

Overdose, high sugar content and uncontrolled consumption

Dr. Kafir Bildman, a clinical pharmacist at Asuta Medical Centers, points out that vitamins in the form of gummies are mainly intended for children and people who have difficulty swallowing pills, and he points out a number of potential risks involved in their consumption. According to him, beyond the fact that these are not always helpful, their consumption and perception as a “friendly candy” They are a problematic matter. “First of all, it is important to pay attention to the recommended ages, according to what is indicated on the packaging and to be careful dosages. This recommendation is especially important when it comes to small children,” he explains.

The doctor adds that the gummy candies often contain a significant amount of sugar. The way to check if the product does indeed contain a high amount is to look at the list of indicated ingredients and if sugar does appear at the top of the list – this is a sign that it is a dominant component in the product’s content.

 

 

 

Moreover, he explains that the health effect of these nutritional supplements is not necessarily positive, and sometimes even harmful. “Nutritional supplements are designed to make up for nutritional deficiencies, but in practice it is not always necessary to consume them, especially in light of the fact that there are vitamins and minerals that can be consumed through food. In fact, some of these products contain relatively low doses of active ingredients, and sometimes there is no real benefit in consuming them. Also the regulation on supplements The diet is not as strict as it usually is with medicines is not always accurate.”

One of the main problems, according to him, with the consumption of vitamins in rubber is the risk associated with an overdose. “Two prominent examples of vitamins that can cause health problems when consumed in excess are vitamin A – In children up to the age of 3, it is enough to consume more than two candies a day in order to exceed the maximum recommended amount, which may lead to side effects such as hair loss, liver toxicity and muscle pain. Pregnant women are also particularly sensitive to this vitamin, because above a certain dose it becomes teratogenic (dangerous to the fetus). Even in this case, excessive consumption can be dangerous. Another example is Iodine – Among children up to the age of 3, consumption of more than five candies alone can lead to a dangerous daily dose of iodine. Excessive doses of iodine may cause thyroid dysfunction, metabolic problems and gastrointestinal symptoms.

For people who have difficulty swallowing pills, he recommends other alternatives such as syrups or drops, but even in this case the sugar content and the desired doses should be checked. “Certain syrups have high amounts of sugar, so it is important to check the composition of the product and choose wisely,” advises Dr. Bildman, and also emphasizes several guiding principles for the safe and correct consumption of nutritional supplements.

• Customization: It is always recommended to contact a doctor to clarify the problem before starting to consume supplements. Simple blood tests can reveal specific deficiencies and prevent unnecessary purchases.
• Adherence to the desired dosage: Adherence to the recommendations indicated on the packaging is critical, especially when it comes to children.
• Safe storage: Dietary supplements should be stored out of the reach of children, just like medicines.

“Nutritional supplements are not candy, and the issue must be treated responsibly,” concludes Dr. Bildman. “In any case of doubt, it is always better to consult a doctor or pharmacist.”

The Ministry of Health recommends a varied diet as a preferred source of vitamins and minerals for the population in general and children in particular.

‏‎Ministry of Health: “Nutritional supplements in the form of gummy candies can be perceived as candy in the eyes of the public, which can increase the chance of excessive consumption, especially among children. Therefore, according to the law, nutritional supplements marketed in Israel must carry on the product the warning ‘keep out of the reach of children.'” Ministry of Health Reminding the public that people who want to consume nutritional supplements are required to consult a doctor or nutritionist licensed by the Ministry of Health.