As awareness of health and wellness grows, Filipinos are increasingly prioritizing preventive healthcare, with 97% considering it essential to their well-being, according to a recent study by Herbalife. Across Asia Pacific, the average is slightly lower at 92%.

Many Filipinos are actively taking steps to improve health, including making healthier food choices, exercising regularly, and taking supplements to support general wellness and immunity. Nearly nine in ten Filipinos report taking supplements regularly. However, almost one in four lack confidence that they are making responsible decisions regarding supplementation.

Knowledge Gaps in Supplement Use

Herbalife’s study highlights a significant knowledge gap among supplement users. Consumers often lack clarity on:

  • Proper dosages and upper intake limits, particularly when taking multiple supplements

  • Potential interactions with medications, such as St. John’s Wort reducing the effectiveness of warfarin or statins

  • Risks of overconsumption, including conditions like hypercalcemia from excessive calcium intake

Among Filipinos, 51% are unaware of the risks of supplement overuse, 43% don’t know daily calcium limits, and 67% are unaware of the effects of over-consuming calcium.

Generational differences also emerged: Baby Boomers consume supplements frequently but are least confident in their choices, while Gen Z shows the strongest belief in making informed decisions and highest confidence. Still, confidence does not always translate to proper supplement use, as excessive intake can pose health risks.

Trust, Safety, and Guidance

Filipinos value safety and efficacy, with 48% prioritizing product effectiveness and 36% considering quality certifications. 95% say trust in a supplement strongly influences their purchase decisions. Yet only 64% consult healthcare professionals, highlighting the need for more proactive guidance.

Herbalife emphasizes that responsible supplementation is a shared responsibility:

  • Consumers must seek credible information and professional advice

  • Healthcare professionals should provide science-backed guidance

  • Supplement providers need to offer clear labeling, transparency, and quality assurance

Toward Better Health Outcomes

The study underscores that supplementation plays a vital role in achieving health and wellness goals. By improving consumer education and fostering collaboration between nutrition companies, healthcare professionals, and users, Filipinos can make safer, more informed supplement choices. This approach ensures responsible supplementation becomes a sustainable practice, helping individuals maintain health and well-being over the long term.