AI Diet Plans May Be Putting Teens at Risk of Malnutrition
As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly accessible, teenagers are turning to AI-powered meal planning tools for weight loss. But, novel research suggests these plans may not be providing adequate nutrition, potentially leading to health risks.
The Rise of AI Meal Planning
Nutrition plans, specifying when and what to eat to meet calorie and nutrient goals, are popular tools for weight management. Traditionally, these plans were created by registered dietitians or nutritionists. AI programs now offer a more accessible alternative, but their accuracy and safety are under scrutiny.
Study Compares AI to Human Expertise
A recent study conducted by researchers in Turkey compared the meal planning abilities of five AI models – ChatGPT 4, Gemini 2.5 Pro, Bing Chat-5GPT, Claude 4.1, and Perplexity – against the recommendations of a registered dietitian. The AI models were provided with the age, height, and weight of four 15-year-old teenagers, some of whom were overweight or obese, and tasked with creating three-day meal plans consisting of three meals and two snacks per day. Frontiers in Nutrition
Significant Calorie Deficiencies
The study found that, on average, the AI models underestimated the teenagers’ calorie needs by a substantial 700 kilocalories – equivalent to an entire meal. This significant difference could have clinical consequences, particularly for growing adolescents. MSN
Imbalanced Macronutrient Ratios
Beyond calorie deficits, the AI-generated plans also differed significantly in macronutrient composition (proteins, carbohydrates, and fats) compared to the dietitian’s recommendations. The AI models suggested higher protein and fat intake, but significantly lower carbohydrate intake. Ayşe Betül Bilen, assistant professor at Istanbul Atlas University, warns that these unbalanced and restrictive plans can negatively impact growth, metabolic health, and eating behavior in adolescents. Frontiers in Nutrition
AI’s Limitations in Nutritional Science
Researchers attribute these discrepancies to the way AI models are trained. “AI models are primarily trained to produce answers that seem plausible and user-friendly, rather than clinically precise,” explains Bilen. “Our results suggest that they may be based on generalized or popular dietary patterns rather than fully integrating age-specific nutritional needs.” This means AI-generated advice may not always be grounded in robust scientific evidence.
Recommendations and Cautions
The researchers advise young people to exercise caution when using AI-generated nutrition plans and to avoid overly restrictive diets. It is crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, for personalized nutrition guidance.
The Growing Market for AI in Nutrition
The market for AI-powered nutrition apps is expanding, particularly in regions like Turkey. The Turkey AI in Baby Food Digital Nutrition Apps Market is currently valued at USD 162 million, driven by increased technology adoption in parenting and a growing demand for personalized nutrition solutions. Ken Research However, this growth underscores the need for careful regulation and validation of these technologies to ensure they provide safe and effective advice.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used in nutrition and dietetics to enhance dietary assessment, personalize nutrition plans, manage chronic diseases, deliver virtual coaching, and support public health nutrition. PMC