A scientific review, which aggregated data from 206,873 individuals across 47 studies, revealed the importance of digital health tools, such as phone applications and websites, in maintaining good health. Researchers found that these tools can significantly improve health and wellness by promoting physical activity, increasing daily steps, enhancing dietary habits, and improving sleep quality. Specifically, electronic health interventions can help individuals achieve the following:
- An additional 1,329 steps daily.
- An extra 55 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise weekly.
- An additional 45 minutes of total physical activity per week.
- 7 hours less of sedentary behavior (prolonged sitting) weekly.
- Consumption of 103 fewer calories per day.
- 20% more fruits and vegetables consumed daily.
- 5.5 grams less of saturated fat consumed daily.
- A weight loss of 1.9 kg over 12 weeks.
- Improved sleep quality.
- Combating insomnia.
The lead researcher, Ben Singh from the University of South Australia, states that people's health behaviors must change if we want to reduce the incidence of chronic diseases. He adds: "Our study found that digital health interventions can have a positive impact on people's health and well-being, not only helping them increase their physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior but also improving their diet and quality of sleep."
