By Lifestyle Staff
ADELAIDE, Australia — A new study reports that users of health apps exercise more, sleep better and eat healthier. A research team from the University of South Australia led by Ben Singh, They collected data from 206,873 people across 47 studies. Their meta-meta-analysis found that digital health tools – such as smartphone apps, websites and text messages – can significantly improve health and well-being.
Specifically, the researchers reported that electronic and mobile health interventions can help people achieve:
- 1,329 more steps/day
- 55 minutes more moderate to intense exercise per week
- 45 minutes more physical activity in total/week
- 7 hours less sitting/week
- 103 fewer calories consumed per day
- 20% more fruit and vegetables consumed per day
- 5 grams less saturated fat consumed per day
- 9 kilograms weight loss in 12 weeks
- Improved sleep quality
- Less severe insomnia.
“Our study found that digital and mobile health interventions can have a positive impact on people’s health and well-being. Not only do they help them increase their physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior, but they also improve their diet and sleep quality,” said Dr. Singh.
Tips for health apps
Here are three tips to help you get the most out of a smartphone health app to improve your sleep, diet and physical activity:
1. Set clear, achievable goals: Start by setting specific, measurable and realistic goals for sleep, diet and exercise in the app. For example, aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep, a balanced intake of fruits and vegetables and at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily. Track your progress regularly to stay motivated and make adjustments as needed.
2. Use reminders and notifications: Most health apps allow you to set reminders for bedtimes, meals, and workouts. Use these features to maintain consistency in your routines. Continuous reminders help reinforce healthy habits and ensure you stick to your plan even on busy days.
3. Analyze and adapt based on the data: Regularly review the data and insights provided by the app, such as sleep patterns, calorie intake, and activity levels. Use this information to identify areas that can be improved. For example, if the app indicates that you are not meeting your sleep goal, consider adjusting your bedtime routine or limiting screen time before bed.
Do you use a health app? Tell us what app you use and how it helps you improve your health and wellbeing. Email us at [email protected].
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