La promesa de la eterna juventud: un negocio multimillonario no exento de peligros

In the Middle Ages, physicians, who worked with potions and humoral theories, believed their job was solely to restore lost health, adhering to the principle of "restitutio ad integrum" – returning to integrity. Over time, humanity moved closer to the center of the cosmos, and this principle evolved into a medical concept that aims not only to cure but also to improve and perfect, known as "transformatio ad optimum."

This idea has fueled the most remarkable scientific and medical advancements in the past two centuries, yet it has also driven a relentless pursuit of formulas to combat diseases, limitations, and ultimately aging.

This obsession with avoiding aging is backed by scientific interest and humanism, but also by a lucrative business that is transforming pharmaceutical and aesthetic medicine companies. Beyond the business opportunities, nutrition and health experts warn of potential risks, especially for people with complicated health conditions or pregnant women.

Jordi Salas, a professor of Nutrition at the Universitat Rovira i Virgili, explains that supplements are not subject to drug law but to food manufacturing rules. Non-compliance can lead to risks, either due to dosage, interactions with other medications, or adulteration. He cites the example of the "Bichota" natural sexual enhancement supplement, withdrawn by the Spanish Medicines Agency for adulteration with Viagra, natural anti-inflammatory products made with San Juan weed, which have contraindications with antidepressants or anticoagulants, and over-dosed Vitamin D or Omega 3 supplements.

He warns that while some companies explain risks and act responsibly, others do not, as they are not required to disclose certain information.

Colagen, according to experts, doesn't pose adverse effects but rather suffers from misleading advertising as its effectiveness is not proven. Juan Revenga, director of the Human Nutrition and Dietetics degree at the University of Valencia, notes that the industry's growth is due to consumers' desire to believe in "miracles," lack of strict regulation, and the rise of online sales.

He points out that many companies create their supplement lines and offer them to influencers, requiring the same regulation as products like jam. Both experts express concern about the expanding consumption, but warn that the variety is too high and products change too often for regulation to keep up: "We need specific regulation and medical training.

This industry has grown significantly, but this isn't about generating alarm, but about signaling the lack of effectiveness and risks for vulnerable people."