Hong Kong's youth increasingly turn to supplements for wellness boost

Why Hongkongers Are Turning to Supplements to Keep Their ‘Engine’ Running

Hong Kong’s younger residents are increasingly relying on dietary supplements to enhance energy, immunity, and overall performance, reflecting a broader trend in the city’s booming wellness industry. Experts, however, caution that while supplements can be beneficial, they should not replace a balanced diet.

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A Growing Trend Among Millennials and Gen Z

Tata Tse Yi-kwan, a sound-wellness practitioner, exemplifies this shift. Spending approximately HK$2,000 (US$255) monthly on supplements, Tse tailors her regimen to meet specific needs such as immunity, digestion, and recovery. Her routine includes MCT oil, collagen, multivitamins, creatine, and enzymes, which she credits for keeping her “engine” running as she trains for a Hyrox race in January.

Beyond supplements, Tse integrates wellness practices like meditation and journaling into her lifestyle, highlighting the holistic approach many younger Hongkongers are adopting. Millennials and Gen Z are key drivers of the global wellness market, which is valued at US$2 trillion.

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Industry Growth Fueled by Health Consciousness and Demographics

Hong Kong’s wellness industry is on a sharp upward trajectory, with retail sales of supplements projected to reach HK$12.7 billion by 2028. Factors such as increased health awareness, an ageing population, and a resurgence in tourism are contributing to this growth, according to Frost & Sullivan’s analysis of the local market.

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Experts Urge Caution

While supplements are becoming a staple for many, health professionals warn against excessive reliance on them. A healthier diet should remain the foundation of wellness, they argue, with supplements serving to fill gaps rather than replace nutritious food.

This trend underscores a shift in how Hongkongers view health, blending traditional remedies with modern supplements to meet evolving lifestyle demands.

Source: South China Morning Post