Med. praxi. 2025;22(3):225-226

Nutraceuticals and their use in the clinical practice of the general practitioner

doc. MUDr. Dalibor Pastucha, Ph.D., MBA^{1, 2}, Ing. Hana Střítecká, Ph.D.^{3, 4}

¹ Obezitologická ambulance, ReFit Clinic, s. r. o, Olomouc

² Klinika rehabilitace a tělovýchovného lékařství, FN Ostrava a LF Ostravská univerzita

³ Ústav preventivního lékařství, Lékařská fakulta UK v Hradci Králové

⁴ CASRI - Vědecké a servisní pracoviště tělesné výchovy a sportu, Praha

Nutraceuticals are natural substances and dietary supplements with potential health benefits, disease prevention, and metabolic balance optimization. While their use is increasing, there is no definition, and regulations across the EU focus primarily on safety. Their recommendation should be evidence-based, as they can interact with medications and affect treatment outcomes. Examples of proven efficacy include vitamin D and lipid-lowering supplements like phytosterols or red yeast rice extract containing monacolin K. It's essential to choose verified products and consult healthcare professionals to avoid adverse effects or improper use. Nutraceuticals should not replace conventional medicine but can serve as supplementary agents within a safe and informed framework.

Keywords: nutraceuticals, dietary supplements, general practitioner.

Published: June 26, 2025  Show citation