Consumers now more concerned about mental well-being than physical fitness

Published: 13-Jun-2017

Driven by increasingly digital lifestyles and a more holistic understanding of health and well-being, the demand for products that address health beyond diet and fitness is growing, according to research and consulting firm GlobalData

The company’s consumer research reveals that while heart health is crucially important — with 70% of consumers globally aiming to improve it during the next 12 months — an even higher percentage of consumers (77%) have plans to improve their mental well-being and happiness during the same period.

GlobalData’s latest report states that consumers’ perceptions of what constitutes a healthy lifestyle now encompass not only a feeling of physical fitness, but a broader sense of emotional well-being.

From fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) products to smart devices, innovations addressing issues related to overall well-being are becoming increasingly evident in the market.

Lia Neophytou, Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, explains: “As health continues to be viewed in a much more holistic way, brands are recognising the value in addressing health concerns that derive from busy lifestyles, time-scarcity and associated stress levels.”

Innovations such as those by beverage brand Just Chill that, unlike traditional energy drinks, were created to induce calming effects, demonstrate the consumer desire to alleviate busy lifestyles and reduce the potentially negative implications of stress and anxiety.

Neophytou adds: “Manufacturers have started producing wearable and smart devices that, as well as counting steps and calories, monitor and manage sleep quality, stress levels and other lifestyle factors."

"For example, the ‘INYU’ by SmartCardia is a handheld smart device that can sense emotions and track factors such as heart rate activity and breathing in real-time, allowing consumers to identify and effectively address their emotions."

“This highlights the drive for more personalised, innovative wearable devices that can meet concerns pertaining to emotional and mental well-being currently under-addressed by conventional products.”

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