Here are 6 warning signs experts say to watch out for when using nutrition and fitness apps.

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Fitness and nutrition tracking apps provide an easy way to keep tabs on your health data.

But new research suggests that you could accidentally work against your health goals when you use these platforms.

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How are tracking apps working against your health goals?

There are a few things that could be happening here.

They are designed to provide praise for eating less and punishment for eating more.

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Boswell also notes that these apps are also designed to encourage activity to compensate for eating.

Apps often default to very low-calorie recommendations, e.g.

They rarely focus on the quality, balance, and nutritional density of foods.

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But certain people may be more susceptible to developing unhealthy behaviors while using fitness apps than others.

What are the signs your app isnt helping?

There are a few clues that your app isnt being a positive force in your life.

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Rewards can be an improved lifestyle and improved physical health, she says.

For many, these apps can act as an accountability system with virtual rewards.

Its important to approach them with some level of caution, Boswell says.

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