What are the dangers of AI diets: scientists have discovered a serious problem

The results are published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition.

The study was conducted by scientists from Istanbul Atlas University in Turkey. They decided to test how accurately popular AI models make meal plans for teenagers who want to lose weight.

Details

For the experiment, the researchers asked five AI systems to create three-day meal plans for overweight 15-year-olds. These plans were then compared to the recommendations of a professional nutritionist.

The results showed a marked difference.

On average, the diets created by the AI underestimated the amount of energy needed by about 700 calories per day - that's almost a full meal.

In addition, the balance of nutrients also differed from the experts' recommendations. The AI diets turned out to have:

• more protein
• more fat
• significantly less carbohydrates.

Why it's important

Adolescence is one of the most important periods for body growth and development.

According to researchers, diets that are too strict or unbalanced can negatively affect:

• growth
• metabolism
• the formation of eating habits.

Scientists note that artificial intelligence often creates answers that look convincing, but are not always based on medical advice.

Background

The authors of the study emphasise that AI tools can be useful as an auxiliary source of information, but should not replace specialist advice, especially when it comes to adolescent health.

Source

Ayşe Betül Bilen et al, Artificial Intelligence Diet Plans Underestimate Nutrient Intake Compared to Dietitians in Adolescents, Frontiers in Nutrition (2026)