Weight Loss Going High-Tech, But Does It Work?
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - For some people, losing weight may take more than just diet or exercise.
Now, weight loss is going high-tech with new gadgets promising the end of diets, exercise regimens and even surgery.
But, how well do some of these things actually work?
For example, Dan Correa's scale talks to him.
The scale tells you how much food to eat over how much time and if you eat too fast, it gives you a warning.
The theory is that eating more slowly leads to weight loss.
"It's about feeling full and by eating slower, you will feel full sooner," nutritionist Deborah Cardile said.
The Mandometer is not the only high-tech device designed to help you shed the pounds.
The Bite Counter literally counts each time you take a bite during a meal.
A computer allows the user to set the count and read the results on your wrist.
Psychologist Eric Muth developed the device after his own struggle with weight gain.
If you eat more than a pre-programmed number of bites, an alarm goes off.
"We showed that if we tracked bites, you could indeed slow a person's eating and that did reduce intake," Muth said.
That's also the theory behind the HapiFork.
It vibrates and flashes a red light if you take bites less than 10 seconds apart.
A mobile app even helps to keep track.
Most diners who tried it were surprised at what it revealed.
Studies show eating slower, smaller portions and taking fewer bites can help you lose weight.
Experts say each has its limitations.
"It definitely can be of some value, but it still does not help you decide what food choices to make or when to eat. Those two things are extremely important," nutritionist Nicolette Pace said.
Correa says it worked for him and he's lost nearly 30 pounds in just three months.
"It changes your behavior. It changes your relationship with food. It works," Correa said.
The Mandometer was originally developed for people with eating disorders, but is now being offered for regular weight loss.
Because of that, you still need a referral from a Mandometer clinic to be eligible for the scale.
The Bite Counter is available online for anyone, but it's very expensive at almost $800.
That gets you the device, all the adaptors and the software.
The HapiFork seems to be the cheapest and easiest option. It's available on Amazon for $99.
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