More than 86 million Americans used a weight loss app in 2022. With a huge variety of choices, there is an app for every type of user. Among the most common features found in these apps are diet plans, water tracking, goal setting, fitness tracking, food diaries, recipes, and a supportive environment.
Not all apps offer every option, so potential users should shop around for the best app suitable for them. with emerging evidence that these applications can be usefullet’s take a look at the science behind them.
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1. Behavior modification
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on the relationship between thoughts and behavior, can be effective approach to weight loss. CBT has long been a part of traditional psychotherapy, and weight loss apps are getting in on the action. Some apps use core elements of CBT to help users.
Incorporating CBT principles into a weight loss application can be beneficial for people interested in exploring and addressing the psychology behind their weight loss struggles. By examining and adjusting their own self-perception and eating habits, consumers can work on creating and implementing a positive relationship with food. Negative relationships with food and self-sabotage can be addressed and coping mechanisms can be developed to combat stress eating.
2. Community
The support system is a a valuable tool to lose or maintain weight. This is true regardless of whether an app is included. While some people may choose to seek out an in-person support group, weight loss apps can be a readily available source of community.
If you’re someone who thrives on social engagement, look for an app with a large membership and digital community. This can include message boards and a robust social media presence. Using an app for connect with others with similar goals and struggles is a way to give and receive encouragement, practical tips, advice and emotional support. with 41 percent of Americans who classify themselves as overweight, it’s no surprise that people would find it motivating to connect with others in a similar situation. For many users, this component is an important aspect of their choice and use of an application.
3. Consistency
The sequence is an integral part of losing weight and keep it off. Consistently choosing nutrient-dense, less processed, healthier food and drinking more water and fewer sugary drinks lead to weight loss. You don’t need an app to be consistent with your healthier food choices, but an app can provide a convenient method of keeping all your information in one place.
The ability to easily track, review, and change your eating (and physical) habits can help people stay consistent. It can be difficult and stressful to remember everything you’ve eaten for days, weeks and months. But the weight loss app will store all of this information for you, taking the guesswork out of the equation.
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4. Monitoring food intake
Monitoring food intake (calories, carbohydrates, proteins and nutrients) can be a useful tool for weight loss and apps can help in this process. Some apps require users to enter information about their food, while others are more technologically advanced with their food databases. Users can access information provided by the application based on the user’s food(s).
Other apps have barcode scanners that can be used to access useful information about packaged food, including important nutritional information and warnings about negative aspects of a particular item. Not all app scanners are created equal, so if this is an important feature to you, make sure any prospective app scanner has the ability to provide the information you’re looking for.
Before choosing a weight loss app, it’s helpful to know your overall goals. Not all weight loss apps are for everyone. Make sure you choose one that is good for your mental and physical health.
Read more: You may be eating more than you think — Here’s how keeping a food diary can help