Are you uncertain about the sudden omnipresence of AI in various spheres, including health and wellness? If you’re someone driven to do good work and assist others, this post is for you.
Today, we delve into the world of AI in health and wellness through the insightful conversation between Sharon Tewksbury-Bloom and dietitian Abby Chan.
Introduction
AI for Helpers and Changemakers is a show dedicated to those who aim to make a positive impact with the aid of technology. Whether you’re thrilled about AI tools or cautious about their implications, we invite you to explore this journey with us. Hosted by Sharon Tewksbury Bloom, a veteran in working with changemakers, this podcast brings diverse perspectives on the nexus of AI and human-centered professions.
Meet Abby Chan
In this episode, we feature Abby Chan, a dietician and co-owner of Evolve in Flagstaff, Arizona. Together with her partner Brian, a physical therapist, Abby brings a holistic approach to health by blending dietetics, chef skills, and physical therapy.
Simplifying Health and Nutrition
Abby underscores the complexity in the medical and health fields, highlighting the limited time practitioners often have with patients. Her primary mission is to simplify health advice and make it more contextual and enjoyable for individuals. Real-life examples, such as managing dietary restrictions for kidney stones in a sustainable way, showcase her pragmatic approach.
Addressing Medical Bias with AI
The conversation also touches on the potential and pitfalls of AI in health. Sharon emphasizes the need to be critical of AI algorithms that can perpetuate existing biases. Abby adds that AI, created by humans, inherits our flaws and the gaps in research, especially in understanding diverse populations.
Personalized Nutrition and the Promise of Technology
Genetic testing and AI are making strides in personalized nutrition. While there’s potential for improved health outcomes, Abby warns against the over-reliance on these tools without considering individualized human experiences. Diet and health should not be reduced to numbers and algorithms; human touch and understanding remain irreplaceable.
The Dangers of Eating Disorders
“Dieting puts you at an 18 times higher risk of developing an eating disorder,” Abby states. Eating disorders are second only to opioid use disorders in mortality rates among mental health conditions. Her clinical experience reiterates that health markers like BMI can do more harm than good by perpetuating weight stigma and medical bias.
Future Technologies in Health
Throughout the conversation, the potential of AI in meal planning and health monitoring is discussed. While ChatGPT can generate helpful meal plans, it’s crucial to use it wisely, ensuring that users can validate information and not fall prey to misinformation.
Conclusion
The exchange between Sharon and Abby underscores the importance of integrating technology thoughtfully into healthcare. It reminds us that while AI can be a powerful ally, the human element in caregiving, understanding, and personal interaction remains essential.
Get in Touch
To learn more about Abby Chan’s work, you can visit [Evolve Flagstaff](https://evolveflg.com) or follow her on various social media platforms as Abby the RD.
Stay tuned for more conversations that bridge technology and human-centered connection, and don’t forget to share this post with anyone who might find these insights beneficial.
Contact Us
For further information or to suggest interviewees, email us at hello@bloomfacilitation.com.