Avoid supplementing indiscriminately.
First, one should understand whether supplementation is necessary, what their body constitution is, and which organs have deficiencies. Generally, middle-aged people should focus on strengthening the spleen and stomach, while the elderly should focus on tonifying kidney qi. However, on an individual level, there are different types such as qi deficiency, blood deficiency, yin deficiency, yang deficiency, and combined deficiencies of qi, blood, yin, and yang. These require careful analysis, and it is best to have them determined under the guidance of an experienced doctor. Only in this way can one be targeted in their approach and avoid the mistake of treating emptiness with fullness and vice versa.
Avoid relying solely on supplements.
For those who wish to stay fit and live long, relying only on supplements is not a good approach. One must also pay attention to appropriate exercise, dietary adjustments, using the brain more (mental exercises), and avoiding evil while seeking tranquility to achieve true health preservation.
Supplement but avoid being one-sided.
Traditional Chinese medicine believes that while qi and blood, and yin and yang are two opposing aspects, they also generate and support each other. When supplementing during winter, it is also important to balance qi, blood, yin, and yang. One should not be one-sided in supplementation, as this can lead to imbalances that may trigger other illnesses.
Supplement but avoid being greasy or rich.
For those with poor health, especially with indigestion, the first priority is to restore the function of the spleen and stomach. Otherwise, taking more supplements will be of no use. Therefore, winter supplementation should not be overly greasy or rich; the principle should be that it is easy to digest.
Avoid supplementation during external illnesses.
When suffering from external illnesses such as colds or coughs, do not supplement, lest it allows the pathogen to linger, causing endless future troubles.
Avoid judging supplements by their price.
Regarding how to supplement, it is best to do so under medical guidance. For supplements, do not hold the belief that the more expensive they are, the better or more effective they are.