Study finds AI-based diets negatively impact teen health
There is a growing trend among teenagers to turn to artificial intelligence for nutrition and weight loss advice, which seems convenient and modern.
However, a recent study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition revealed worrying risks: the recommendations provided by popular AI chatbots often do not meet the needs of teenagers for their healthy development. Computer-generated menus do not provide enough calories and do not contain a balanced set of nutrients. This can have serious consequences.
Why are teenagers resorting to AI for help in planning their diet?
The problem of excess weight is becoming critical among teenagers around the world, leading to the search for quick solutions to achieve the “ideal” way of eating. The right approach to weight control should include physical exercise, changing habits and consulting with specialists (dietitians, nutritionists). However, financial barriers and lack of time often limit access to experts. These factors lead many teenagers to turn to artificial intelligence recommendations.
Research results
As part of the study, scientists integrated profiles of 15-year-old overweight teenagers. They tested five popular AI systems that aimed to create a three-day weight loss meal plan. The menus produced by AI were compared with the recommendations of qualified pediatric nutritionists.
The results were disappointing: the diets generated by AI significantly reduced daily calorie intake, offering 700 calories less than required. This is equivalent to skipping one full meal per day. Such an approach can threaten the metabolism and overall health of a teenager who is actively developing.
The danger of nutritional imbalance
Another serious problem is the imbalance of the recommended diets. AI often advises to significantly reduce carbohydrate intake (32-36% instead of the recommended 45-50%), increase protein intake (up to 24%), and consume a significant amount of fat (up to 45%). While this may seem similar to popular diets, such proportions can be dangerous for a young body. Lack of carbohydrates leads to a decrease in energy, and lack of fiber causes digestive problems.
The study also found significant problems with micronutrient recommendations. The levels of certain vitamins in the created menus were critically low or, conversely, excessive, depending on the AI system used. This can be especially dangerous for teenagers, many of whom face deficiencies in important elements such as iron and calcium.
Reasons for AI errors
The main reason for the inaccuracy of recommendations is that AI relies on information from open sources on the Internet, rather than on verified medical data. Therefore, it often offers trendy diets or simplified recommendations, ignoring important factors such as age and individual needs.
Experts draw attention to the fact that AI should be used only as an auxiliary tool and cannot replace qualified doctors. This is especially important for adolescents, since at this age there is an active growth and development.
Despite the attractiveness of artificial intelligence as a “personal advisor” for health, accuracy and professionalism remain paramount. Ensuring health is a responsibility, not an experiment. The best way is to turn to specialists, not to algorithms.
