Teens using AI to diet may be told to eat almost 700 fewer daily calories than they need
Teens using AI to diet may be told to eat almost 700 fewer daily calories than they need
https://www.cnn.com/2026/03/16/health/teens-ai-diet-wellness
Publish Date: 2026-03-16 07:00:00
Source Domain: www.cnn.com
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AI-generated diet plans for teens aiming to lose weight often recommended significantly fewer calories and imbalances in nutrients compared to guidance from human dietitians, according to a study in Frontiers in Nutrition.
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AI plans averaged 700 fewer calories per day than those recommended by human dietitians, with significant discrepancies in protein, fats, and carbohydrates.
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Implications for growth and development: Inadequate nutrition during adolescence can seriously impact growth, development, and may increase the risk of eating disorders.
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Popularity among teens: Many teens use AI for weight-loss advice, driven by high prevalence of weight-loss attempts (48%) and frequent use of AI tools including chatbots (about 66%).
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Risk of misinformation: AI algorithms may inadvertently provide misleading nutrition advice, potentially stemming from online misinformation or unqualified advice.
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Need for professional guidance: Experts emphasize that AI should not replace professional dietary guidance, especially for teens whose growth and nutritional needs are unique and complex.
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Verification of information: Experts recommend verifying AI-provided information against credible sources like registered dietitians, as AI lacks the broader context and critical thinking applied by health professionals.
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Balanced approach for teens: Professionals recommend focusing on balanced meals over restrictive diets for teens, as severe caloric restriction and crash diets can harm health and development.
