Researchers trial AI coach for diabetes
For many people with type 2 diabetes, the challenge isn't understanding what they need to do to stay well. It's doing it consistently. Managing the condition often requires a long-term commitment to healthier eating patterns, regular exercise and medication. But unlike some illnesses, diabetes can progress quietly. Missing a dose or skipping exercise may not cause immediate consequences, making…
Type 2 diabetes often requires consistent management, including healthy eating, exercise, and medication adherence. However, maintaining these habits can be challenging, especially in the time between medical appointments. Researchers at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute are developing an AI-powered digital health coach called DiNa to assist people with diabetes between appointments.
DiNa aims to increase treatment plan adherence and improve diabetes management. In a clinical trial, 10 participants with type 2 diabetes will be tested over three months, half using DiNa and the other half using an existing diabetes-management tool. DiNa gathers data from various sources, including meal records, medication tracking, and continuous glucose monitors, to make monitoring more accessible.
Rather than relying on manual food diary entries, users can photograph their meals, and the AI identifies foods and estimates nutritional information. DiNa also allows users to chat with an AI coach through a voice-only interface, providing personalized support and encouragement. The goal is not to replace clinicians but to help users understand their condition better and make informed decisions.
Researchers hope that DiNa could become a powerful educational tool, offering personalized advice based on an individual's unique physiological factors.
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