Can the AI tools ChatGPT and Bard generate energy, macro- and micro-nutrient sufficient meal plans for different dietary patterns?

Hieronimus B, Hammann S, Podszun MC (2024)

Publication Language: English

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2024

Journal

Nutrition Research Elsevier

Book Volume: 128

Pages Range: 105-114

DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2024.07.002

Abstract

Artificial intelligence chatbots based on large language models have recently emerged as an alternative to traditional online searches and are also entering the nutrition space. In this study, we wanted to investigate whether the artificial intelligence chatbots ChatGPT and Bard (now Gemini) can create meal plans that meet the dietary reference intake (DRI) for different dietary patterns. We further hypothesized that nutritional adequacy could be improved by modifying the prompts used. Meal plans were generated by 3 accounts for different dietary patterns (omnivorous, vegetarian, and vegan) using 2 distinct prompts resulting in 108 meal plans total. The nutrient content of the plans was subsequently analyzed and compared to the DRIs. On average, the meal plans contained less energy and carbohydrates but mostly exceeded the DRI for protein. Vitamin D and fluoride fell below the DRI for all plans, whereas only the vegan plans contained insufficient vitamin B12. ChatGPT suggested using vitamin B12 supplements in 5 of 18 instances, whereas Bard never recommended supplements. There were no significant differences between the prompts or the tools. Although the meal plans generated by ChatGPT and Bard met most DRIs, there were some exceptions, particularly for vegan diets. These tools maybe useful for individuals looking for general dietary inspiration, but they should not be relied on to create nutritionally adequate meal plans, especially for individuals with restrictive dietary needs.

Authors with CRIS profile

Simon Hammann Lehrstuhl für Lebensmittelchemie (Henriette-Schmidt-Burkhardt Lehrstuhl)

Involved external institutions

Max-Rubner-Institut - Bundesforschungsinstitut für Ernährung und Lebensmittel DE Germany (DE) Universität Hohenheim DE Germany (DE)

How to cite

APA:

Hieronimus, B., Hammann, S., & Podszun, M.C. (2024). Can the AI tools ChatGPT and Bard generate energy, macro- and micro-nutrient sufficient meal plans for different dietary patterns? Nutrition Research, 128, 105-114. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nutres.2024.07.002

MLA:

Hieronimus, Bettina, Simon Hammann, and Maren C. Podszun. "Can the AI tools ChatGPT and Bard generate energy, macro- and micro-nutrient sufficient meal plans for different dietary patterns?" Nutrition Research 128 (2024): 105-114.

BibTeX: Download