Use of digital technologies in the nutritional management of catabolism-prone chronic diseases: A rapid review

Background: Diet and nutrition applications (apps) have become more readily accessible as smartphone ownership increases. These apps have the potential to improve nutritional outcomes, but it remains unclear whether they are effective in patients with catabolism-prone conditions and specialized nutritional needs.

Aims: The primary aim of this rapid review was to determine if delivery of a nutrition intervention via an app was more effective than standard care in improving nutritional outcomes in patients with a selected set of catabolism-prone chronic diseases. Secondary aims included summarizing intervention components and reviewing adherence and acceptance.

Methods: The research question was developed using the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes (PICO) framework. Comprehensive literature searches were conducted across three databases. Screening, study selection, extraction, and risk of bias (RoB) assessment were conducted for the included randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Results: 15 articles were included, including 5 RCTs; 3/5 RCTs were judged to be at high RoB. The study aims, measured outcomes, and intervention components were diverse. Adherence and acceptance to the app interventions were encouraging.

Conclusions: Due to the heterogeneity of study design, nutrition interventions, outcomes, and reporting across studies, we were unable to aggregate data regarding the impact on nutritional outcomes. Reassuringly though, the available evidence suggests high adherence and acceptance, which needs to be interpreted in light of the associated personnel support provided within each study. The use of digital technology to deliver diet and nutrition interventions in catabolism-prone conditions is feasible, easy to adhere to, and well-accepted by participants.