How to use Apple’s Visual Intelligence to count calories

Visual AI calorie counting: A new approach to mindful eating: Apple’s Visual Intelligence feature offers a novel way to track calorie intake using smartphone cameras and AI analysis.

• Amanda Caswell, a writer and tech enthusiast, decided to experiment with Apple’s Visual Intelligence to count calories in preparation for the holiday season and upcoming New Year’s resolutions.
• The AI-powered tool analyzes food images captured by the user’s smartphone camera and provides estimated calorie counts.
• This method aims to help users make more informed dietary choices without feeling overly restricted.

How it works: A step-by-step guide to using Visual Intelligence for calorie counting:

• Users snap a picture of their food and ask Siri to analyze the image.
• For best results, an overhead shot of the food item is recommended.
• When portion sizes are not obvious, users need to provide approximate quantities to Siri for more accurate calorie estimates.

Accuracy check: Verifying the AI’s calorie estimates:

• Caswell conducted accuracy tests by comparing Visual Intelligence’s calorie estimates with nutrition information on packaged foods.
• Tests were performed on items such as Fritos, bread, popsicles, and breakfast cereal.
• The AI’s calorie estimates were found to be surprisingly accurate in these controlled tests.

Handling complex meals: Additional steps for multi-ingredient dishes:

• For meals with multiple components or hidden ingredients, users need to provide more detailed descriptions to Siri.
• It’s important to mention all ingredients, including sauces, condiments, and toppings that may not be visible in the image.
• Approximate portion sizes can be described using relatable references, such as “a chicken breast the size of my palm.”

Tracking progress: Utilizing Siri’s memory capabilities:

• Siri, powered by ChatGPT, can remember previous conversations and tally up calorie counts for snacks, meals, or entire days.
• Users can ask Siri to add daily calorie totals to their calendar for easy tracking and comparison over time.

Benefits and limitations: A balanced perspective on AI-assisted calorie counting:

• Caswell found the experience empowering and conducive to making more mindful food choices.
• While not perfect, the tool adds a layer of awareness that integrates easily into daily routines.
• The approach may help users indulge in moderation during the holiday season and stay on track with health goals.

Expert insights: A nutritionist’s perspective on calorie counting:

• Rhiannon Lambert, a registered nutritionist, acknowledges that monitoring calories can help achieve weight loss goals through energy deficits.
• However, she emphasizes that not all calories are nutritionally equal, highlighting the importance of considering the overall nutritional value of foods beyond just their calorie content.

Looking ahead: The potential impact of AI on dietary habits:

While Apple’s Visual Intelligence shows promise in simplifying calorie tracking, it’s important to view this technology as a tool rather than a comprehensive solution for nutrition management. As AI continues to evolve, we may see more sophisticated applications that consider not only calorie content but also nutritional balance, individual dietary needs, and long-term health outcomes. However, users should remain mindful of the limitations of AI-based tools and consider consulting with nutrition professionals for personalized advice on maintaining a healthy diet.