Weight Loss Apps Are Inaccurate and Lack Scientific Evidence

Weight loss apps are gaining much popularity as many opt for it to lose weight. But are they accurate?

A new study by led by Juliana Chen, a dietitian from the University of Sydney looked at 800 apps and narrowed down 28 of them to be targeting weight loss specifically. The best of the lot had motivational components, rewards, challenges, points and feedback.

‘Look for credible weight loss apps as most of them are found to be inaccurate and lacking a scientific basis.’

They found that most of the apps were grossly inaccurate and had no scientific basis. Most of the apps used kilojoules as the measuring unit, but they were also found to be inaccurate.

"There aren't any guidelines or regulations for the apps. Less than one-third of the apps recorded having an author within the health profession," said Juliana Chen.

"What leads to more effective weight loss is using an app in conjunction with weight loss counseling from a health professional who can help you with goal setting and identifying barriers and enablers to follow your plan. This kind of personally tailored advice and feedback unfortunately just isn't available in an app," Chen added.

Source: Medindia