March 3, 2025 – The pursuit of a healthier lifestyle is a global health trend, and China is no exception. Several factors, such as rising affluence, an aging population, and increased awareness of chronic diseases, are driving Chinese consumers to actively seek ways to enhance their physical and mental well-being. Innova Market Insights research highlights the trends driving Chinese consumers to seek healthier lifestyles.
This article is based on Innova’s Now & Next in Health & Wellness Drivers in China report. This report is available to purchase or with an Innova Reports subscription. Reach out to find out more
Drivers for Health & Wellness in China
Health trends indicate that Chinese consumers are increasingly prioritizing their physical and mental well-being, driven by a growing awareness of health risks and a strong cultural desire in longevity. In the past year, 89% have taken steps toward adopting a healthier lifestyle. Among these individuals, 62% embrace a proactive approach to health, focusing on prevention rather than simply addressing issues after they arise.
The health goals of Chinese consumers are varied and reflect a desire for overall quality of life improvements. Many are focused on weight management, aging well, achieving emotional stability, and improving their immunity. This approach to health is not only about preventing illness but also about fostering vitality and resilience.
China Consumer Insights in Health & Wellness
The health-conscious consumers in China are expanding rapidly, creating a dynamic health and wellness market with distinct needs and preferences. Brands and innovators looking to connect with this segment must understand the factors influencing Chinese consumers’ health and wellness choices.
As Chinese consumers prioritize their health, they are increasingly focused on dietary changes, favoring fresh, high-quality foods while limiting unhealthy ingredients and promoting natural options. To support their health goals, Chinese consumers are also prioritizing exercise and sleep, showing growing interest in personalized fitness programs and solutions for better sleep quality.
The use of supplements within the health and wellness industry, particularly vitamins and products for digestive and gut health, is on the rise. When seeking information about healthy living, Chinese consumers rely on various sources, including on-pack claims, social media, and health apps. While trust in social media is increasing, concerns about the reliability of online information remain. In this context, AI-powered assistants are emerging as promising tools for providing personalized health guidance, reflecting the evolving landscape of consumer preferences in health and wellness.
Multi-Faceted Goals
Health and wellness in China include many different goals that reflect a holistic approach to well-being. Health and wellness trends reveal that consumers increasingly prioritize emotional stability as a fundamental aspect of mental health, while also focusing on vitality, energy, immunity, and body positivity. While physical health remains important, with attention to staying active and enhancing energy levels, there is a noticeable shift towards valuing mental wellness. This growing awareness highlights the impact of stress, anxiety, and sleep issues have on overall health.
Many Chinese consumers are motivated to manage their weight, improve fitness, and enhance self-esteem by cultivating healthy habits. As they age, the focus shifts to preserving physical vitality, maintaining mental sharpness, and fostering a positive mindset, reflecting a proactive desire to combat the visible signs of aging.
The Rise of Holistic Strategies
Chinese consumers are increasingly adopting a holistic approach to health by integrating various strategies into their daily lives. Fresh, high-quality food is at the forefront of these efforts, with Chinese consumers favoring natural ingredients and home-cooked meals, all while actively reducing unhealthy additives such as sugar, salt, and artificial ingredients.
The growing demand for functional foods and beverages in the health and wellness industry, which offers specific health benefits, reflects a rising interest in nutrition. Many Chinese consumers are also turning to supplements, particularly those aimed at boosting immunity and supporting gut health.
Health trends reveal that many Chinese people enjoy physical activities, especially outdoor ones like walking, running, and team sports. There is also growing awareness of how important sleep is for overall health, leading to efforts to improve sleep habits and reduce insomnia among Chinese consumers.
Digital Tools for Health
Digital tools are important for Chinese consumers and a big influence on health and wellness market in China. Social media is a primary source of information for many, with 68% of Chinese consumers follow healthy eating tips shared online. Trust in online resources is notably high, reflecting a reliance on digital tools.
Although more Chinese consumers are starting to use apps and AI assistants for health information, only 17% do so, and some remain skeptical about their trustworthiness. These apps and AI tools are proving to be valuable assets for personalized health management, enabling users to track their progress, receive tailored recommendations, and get support in achieving their health goals.
Targeted Nutrition in Health & Wellness
Chinese consumers are increasingly turning to targeted nutritional solutions that cater to their specific health needs. 63% of Chinese consumers actively manage their health by following personalized nutrition plans. Responding to this health and wellness trend, targeted nutrition products are on the rise, including regular food and beverages, supplements, and nutrition-fortified products.
The desire for tailored nutritional plans is strong, with 60% of Chinese consumers believing that these personalized approaches are effective. Health trends show that Chinese consumers are looking for products that meet various criteria, such as gender-specific and age-specific needs, performance requirements for athletes, as well as condition-specific solutions for chronic health conditions and dietary intolerances. Additionally, lifestyle considerations, like plant-based diets and sustainable eating, are influencing their choices.
What’s Next in Health & Wellness in China?
The health and wellness market in China is evolving, with consumers eager to prioritize their well-being, creating opportunities for innovation in the food and beverage products. To succeed, companies need to understand what Chinese consumers want. This means creating products that focus on emotional well-being, weight management, and healthy aging. It’s also important to highlight natural ingredients and provide nutritional solutions that cater to different demographics.
Additionally, digital technologies, including social media and AI assistants, are essential in guiding consumers toward healthier choices, highlighting the need for innovative solutions in this dynamic health and wellness market. Brands that meet the evolving needs of Chinese consumers will be well-positioned to succeed in this fast-moving market.
This article is based on Innova’s Now & Next in Health & Wellness Drivers in China report. This report is available to purchase or with an Innova Reports subscription. Reach out to find out more
