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At the Faculty of Physics and Technology of 91��ý Kazakh National University, a series of advisory sessions was conducted focusing on the impact of dietary supplements on students’ health. The events were organized under the supervision of curator S.L. Peshaya in collaboration with students from the Faculty of Medicine of KazNU. This format enabled an interdisciplinary approach, integrating engineering and medical perspectives while enhancing students’ access to scientifically grounded information. The advisory sessions were conducted in two stages, taking into account physiological characteristics. On April 2, 2026, a session was held for male students of the second year of the Materials Science program (Russian-medium track), while on April 3, a separate session was organized for female students of the first year of the same program. This approach allowed for a more detailed consideration of gender-specific risks associated with dietary supplements and improved the effectiveness of knowledge transfer by tailoring content to each audience.

The first session focused on the effects of dietary supplements and sports nutrition on the male body. Key topics included hormonal balance, cardiovascular health, metabolic processes, and reproductive health. Particular emphasis was placed on the risks associated with the uncontrolled use of supplements widely promoted in sports environments. Students were presented with concrete examples of adverse effects, including dysfunction of internal organs, suppression of natural hormone production, and an increased risk of developing chronic conditions.

The second session addressed the impact of dietary supplements on the female body. Discussions covered hormonal regulation, effects on the endocrine system, potential menstrual cycle disorders, and long-term consequences of unsupervised supplement use. Special attention was given to common misconceptions regarding the “natural” origin and presumed safety of such products, as well as the risks associated with self-medication. Students from the Faculty of Medicine presented scientifically substantiated information on the composition of dietary supplements, their mechanisms of action, and potential side effects. The interactive format enabled participants to ask questions and receive expert responses, contributing to the development of critical thinking skills, evidence-based decision-making, and improved health literacy. Additional emphasis was placed on evaluating information sources critically in the context of widespread digital content and marketing influence.

The sessions highlighted the importance of a responsible attitude toward personal health and the necessity of consulting qualified professionals before using any supplements. It was also noted that many products actively promoted through social media and commercial channels lack sufficient clinical validation and may pose hidden health risks. This contributed to fostering students’ ability to assess information critically and make informed choices.

The conducted activities align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education). They contribute to promoting a culture of health, encouraging responsible behavior, and increasing awareness of safe lifestyle practices among students. These advisory sessions demonstrated the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between medical and engineering fields. Such an approach represents a key element in the training of modern specialists and contributes to the development of students’ professional and social competencies, as well as a responsible attitude toward their own health.