HEALTHCARE MANAGEMENT
HELPING CONSUMERS BE THEIR OWN HEALTH ADVOCATES What comprises good health? With so many products on the market, there is often confusing information concerning its safety and efficacy. Amid a barrage of product claims, contradicting news and erroneous product claims, how should consumers decide? Reputation, conducting preliminary research, tech assistants and investing in mental health are some aspects both consumers and healthcare professionals can look more into, in the drive towards individual health advocacy. Kristy Appelhans, Vice President, Global Consumer Safety, Herbalife Nutrition
W
hat comprises good health? For some, having a good immune system and proper food consumption may suffice. For others, it is increasingly about taking vitamins, minerals and other dietary supplements that offer functional benefits that we may not obtain from our everyday diets. Unfortunately, with so much information sources and the wide array of nutritional supplements in the market, it can get confusing for consumers to assess their needs, and the safety and efficacy of the options available. A report by Ernst & Young (EY)1 revealed that the pandemic has underlined the importance of health, fitness and wellness in Asia-Pacific consumers, and they are concerned with protecting their health and 1 https://www.ey.com/en_sg/consumer-products-retail/how-to-win-asia-pacific-consumers-in-the-new-era
6
A SI A N H O S P I T A L & H EA LT HCAR E M A N AGE M E N T
IS S UE - 56, 2022