Review of the"Healthy Living Apps Guide"

Last month the Victorian Government released the 'Healthy Living Apps Guide' (free) which provides an independent, evidence based review and score of more than 200 health apps.  The categories of apps assessed included; eating well, physical activity, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption and improving mental well being.

The apps were rated on functionality and ability to favourably affect the users health behaviours.

The review found that many of the apps available were ineffective and poorly designed.  Particularly in relation to changing behaviours. Only five of the apps achieved a score of three out of five, which was the highest score!

These type of reviews can be invaluable in saving time (and money!) in finding good quality apps.  The 'Healthy Living Apps Guide' is available at www.vichealth.vic.gov/apps

The Apps rated as the top 5 were;

1. Freeletics - Workout and Training
2. Quit Now: My Quit Buddy
3. Get Some Headspace
4. Water Balance
5. UP - Tracker Required