A Content Analysis of Free, Popular Low FODMAPs Diet mHealth Apps

Abstract

ObjectivesCanada has one of the highest Irritable Bowel Syndrome rates (IBS) globally (18% vs. 11%). There is growing interest in the low FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, Mono-saccharides, And Polyols) diet as nutrition therapy for IBS. However, recognizing IBS symptoms and identifying low FODMAPs foods has been challenging for users. Mobile technology may be a convenient and cost-effective tool in helping users adhere to the low FODMAPs diet. The objective was to assess free, popular mobile Health (mHealth) Apps supporting a low FODMAPs diet. MethodsApple iTunes and GooglePlay App stores were searched on December 22, 2020, using pre-selected search terms. The top 100 returns were screened for eligibility. Free and popular (≥3 out of 5 ratings; ≥100 total reviews) mHealth Apps available in English and primarily marketed to help follow FODMAPs diets were included. Apps were downloaded and assessed by 3 nutrition professionals using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS) and the App Quality Evaluation (AQEL) tool. ResultsOf the 1304 screened Apps, n = 9 (mean ratings ± SEM = 4.4 ± 0.1) met the eligibility criteria for assessment, comprising 5 FODMAPs identifiers and 4 tracking/monitoring symptoms Apps. Apps targeted the general population, and 70% focused on nutrition education and food shopping. The Apps used education (9), skills training (5), and/or goal setting (5) as a behavior change tool. 3 Apps provided a cognitive behavioral therapy component. The MARS (rated out of 5) revealed a high overall App quality score (3.6 ± 0.2), credibility (3.1 ± 0.5) and subjective quality scores (2.9 ± 0.3). The AQEL (rated out of 10) revealed high scores in App function (6.2 ± 0.7) and purpose (7.4 ± 0.8), but low scores in behavioral change potential (5.2 ± 0.7), knowledge acquisition (5.4 ± 0.7) and skills development (2.4 ± 1.2). ConclusionsA small number of free FODMAPs diet Apps are available, with limited information on the nutritional adequacy and users’ compliance in following a low FODMAPs diet. Considering the need for careful assessment and management of IBS symptoms with the highly restrictive low FODMAPs diet, Apps should be evidence-based and designed with Behavioral Change Techniques and easy access to healthcare professionals that support Canadians in acquiring knowledge about the diet and in self-monitoring IBS. Funding SourcesNone.