Nutrition Apps' Gamification Tactics Raise Concerns Over Potential Harm

Nutrition tracking applications are increasingly incorporating gamified elements to maintain user engagement, a practice that some researchers warn could have negative consequences for certain individuals. Features common in games, such as "green means go, red means stop" indicators, virtual trophies, confetti for achievements, and nudges for those falling behind, are now prevalent in apps like MyFitnessPal and Noom.

Isabella Anderberg, a psychologist studying digital dieting behaviors at Flinders University, indicated that the calorie-tracking aspect of these apps can reinforce behaviors associated with body dysmorphia and disordered eating. "We do know that not everyone’s going to experience harm from using the apps, but there are certainly factors that might increase risk," Anderberg advised. "Approach with caution."

Despite these concerns, nutrition apps do offer benefits. Anderberg noted that health professionals find them useful as meal-planning tools for individuals managing chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Physical activity apps also serve to remind users to be more active. Many users report finding these features motivating, with streak notifications being a popular example.

Angela Drury, an English professor from Woodstock, Georgia, has used MyFitnessPal for over a decade, initially to track macronutrients and calories for CrossFit. She has since explored other apps, including Weight Watchers, Lose It, and currently Nourish, which is covered by her insurance and includes consultations with a dietitian. Drury found the apps helpful for staying on track with fitness goals and sometimes guiding her away from high-calorie choices. However, she described a notification for an unlogged meal as feeling "scolding."

Most nutrition apps operate by having users input personal data such as height and weight to establish a goal. The app then provides daily calorie or macronutrient targets, employing gamelike features to encourage consistent use. While many apps are free, premium versions requiring payment are also common.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among other health organizations, emphasize that individual caloric needs are dependent on factors including age, sex, and physical activity level. The CDC offers a tool to help calculate these personalized needs.