The use of nutraceuticals in children. Global trends (literature review)

Abstract

The purpose of the review was to assess global trends in the consumption of nutraceuticals by children and adolescents. The analysis of modern literature is carried out. It has been shown that about 30% of children and adolescents in economically developed countries of the world regularly consume nutraceuticals, there is an increase in the consumption of nutraceuticals with anabolic properties among adolescent girls. Comparisons with idealized bodies on Instagram lead to a decrease in self-confidence and an increase in the frequency of dissatisfaction with one's own body. Accordingly, the demand for protein-containing food supplements is increa­sing. The highest intake of nutraceuticals in children and adolescents has been reported in the United States. Among other countries, there is also a high rate of nutraceutical use. The most frequently consumed nutraceuticals are multivitamin and mineral complexes, while only in 1/5 of cases the consumption of nutraceuticals by children is initiated by a medical specialist, in other cases, the decision to include nutraceuticals in the diet was made under the influence of advertising. There is a steady global trend towards increasing the consumption of nutraceuticals by children and adolescents. In Ukraine, extensive studies on children's consumption of nutraceuticals have not been conducted. However, these studies were conducted on limited clinical material and do not reflect the actual prevalence of nutraceutical use in children and adolescents in Ukraine. This makes it highly relevant to conduct a population-based study in Ukraine to investigate the role of nutraceuticals in pediatric nutrition. Keywords: nutrition, children and adolescents, health, рrevention.