Two Main Types of Health Supplements: Which One Do You Need?

Two Main Types of Health Supplements: Which One Do You Need?

Health supplements are not a "one-size-fits-all" solution. They can be divided into two main categories based on functional positioning, and you need to clarify your own needs before choosing:

(1) Specific Health-Functional Supplements

This type of product claims to have specific regulatory functions. Common compliant functions include: enhancing immunity, assisting in lowering blood lipids, assisting in lowering blood sugar, improving sleep, relieving physical fatigue, and promoting digestion. Note: China has strict restrictions on the functions of health supplements, with a total of 27 legally approved health functions. Any product claiming functions beyond this scope, such as "anti-cancer", "treating hypertension", or "curing arthritis", is considered false advertising—do not purchase them.

(2) Nutrient Supplements

These are designed to supplement nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, such as calcium tablets, vitamin D, and multivitamins. They are suitable for people with nutrient deficiencies caused by unbalanced diets or special physiological stages (e.g., pregnancy, old age). However, "more is not better"—for example, excessive vitamin C supplementation may cause diarrhea, and excessive calcium supplementation may increase the risk of kidney stones.