A Scientific Overview of Smartphone Applications and Electronic Devices for Weight Management in Adults

Abstract

Worldwide, there are rising trends in overweight and obesity. Therefore, novel digital tools are discussed to improve health-related behaviors. The use of smartphone applications (apps) and wearables (e.g., activity trackers) for self-monitoring of diet and physical activity might have an impact on body weight. By now, the scientific evaluation of apps and wearables for weight management is limited. Although some intervention studies have already investigated the efficacy of aforementioned digital tools on weight management, there are no clear recommendations for its clinical and therapeutic use. Besides the lack in long-term randomized controlled trials, there are also concerns regarding the scientific quality of apps and wearables (e.g., no standards for development and evaluation). Therefore, the objective of present work is: (1) To address challenges and concerns regarding the current digital health market and (2) to provide a selective overview about intervention studies using apps and activity trackers for weight-related outcomes. Based on cited literature, the efficacy of apps and wearables on weight management is assessed. Finally, it is intended to derive potential recommendations for practical guidance.