Critical warning from an expert: 'We do not recommend taking food and vitamin supplements because...'

Prof. Dr. Yunus Erdem, a faculty member at Hacettepe University (HÜ) Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nephrology, and President of the Turkish Society of Hypertension and Renal Diseases, stated that any product used without a medical diagnosis and not prescribed by a physician is harmful to health.

Explaining that the kidneys maintain the levels of important electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and calcium, ensure water and acid-base balance, and produce hormones necessary for blood pressure and hormones that stimulate bone marrow for blood production, Erdem stated that basic rules must be followed to protect the kidneys, which are among the most vital organs.

Erdem said, "To protect kidney health, high-calorie foods such as bakery products, fats, sugar, fruits, and nuts should be reduced, and an ideal weight should be maintained."

Pointing out that hypertension is also one of the diseases that threaten kidney health, Erdem reported that for this reason, salt consumption must also be reduced.

Erdem also drew attention to the fact that excess salt is not only obtained from table salt, adding, "Scientific research has shown that excessive salt intake occurs through the consumption of foods such as cheese, olives, bread, tomato paste, and pickles, which contain salt. Furthermore, a diet excessively high in protein also impairs kidney health."

''PAINKILLERS SHOULD NOT BE USED UNLESS NECESSARY''

Prof. Dr. Erdem pointed out that medications can also impair kidney health and must only be used when necessary.

Explaining that one should stay away from alcohol and cigarettes and pay attention to physical activity for kidney health, Erdem said that it is appropriate to prefer the Mediterranean diet or the "DASH Diet," where portions are limited and calories are calculated.

''WE DO NOT RECOMMEND TAKING FOOD SUPPLEMENTS''

Emphasizing that vitamin and food supplements used without medical advice for various reasons such as boosting immunity, losing or gaining weight, or increasing collagen levels can impair kidney health, Erdem pointed out that unnecessary consumption of food supplements and vitamins can cause problems ranging from the formation of kidney stones to kidney failure.

Erdem underscored that they do not recommend anyone use food supplements unless they are prescribed by a physician based on the results of blood tests and other examinations.

Reminding that most food supplements are licensed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Erdem said, "Since such products directly concern health, they should be chosen from among products that have been prescribed by a physician when necessary and licensed by the Ministry of Health."

Prof. Dr. Erdem stated that those with kidney failure, in particular, should absolutely not prefer methods popularly known as "herbal treatments," and noted the following:

"As scientists, we do not recommend taking food and vitamin supplements because it is difficult to adjust the dosage in herbal treatments. In cases where the kidneys have difficulty excreting harmful substances, the possibility of a toxic effect increases, and it strains the kidneys. Vitamins and other supplementary products taken in excess of the body's needs cannot be excreted from the body, which can lead to stone formation over time, inhibit hormone production, and cause imbalances."

News Source: AA