Adherence
Smartphone-only apps for weight management produce a modest but statistically significant reduction in body weight and BMI in adults with overweight or obesity, but this effect is limited to a 4-6 month window and diminishes thereafter due to lack of personalization.
Use a smartphone app for weight loss if you can commit to using it daily for 4-6 months. Expect modest results (SMD -0.33) and be prepared for weight regain if you stop using it. To maximize success, choose an app that offers some level of personalization or feedback, as generic apps have high dropout rates. This is not a long-term solution without human support or advanced AI customization.
Smartphone apps demonstrate a modest but statistically significant effect on weight loss and BMI reduction over a 4- to 6-month period in individuals with overweight or obesity. The effectiveness of these interventions appears limited beyond 6 months, with a tendency for weight regain.
Why this rating
Meta-analysis of 11 RCTs with 1717 participants, though heterogeneity was moderate (I2=49%) and risk of bias was high for performance.
Source
The Role of Mobile Apps in Obesity Management: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Carmelo Pujia et al. · Journal of Medical Internet Research · 2025
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