A recent experiment conducted by registered dietitian Natalie Rizzo sheds light on the accuracy and limitations of ChatGPT’s meal plan feature. Developed by Open AI, ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence chatbot that utilizes data from the internet to respond to prompts. Rizzo, intrigued by the claims of ChatGPT’s ability to create customized meal plans, decided to put it to the test.
In her experiment, Rizzo sought to create a seven-day vegetarian meal plan for weight loss using ChatGPT. Initially, the results were vague and lacked specific guidance on portion sizes and preparation methods. Rizzo realized that she needed to provide more specific information, such as her weight loss goals and calorie requirements, to obtain more accurate results.
After refining her prompts, Rizzo received a meal plan that aligned with her goals. The plan included a variety of nutritious meals, such as Greek yogurt with mixed berries and chia seeds, quinoa salad with black beans and avocado, and stir-fried tofu with mixed vegetables and brown rice. However, Rizzo noted that some meals lacked sufficient protein, potentially leaving individuals feeling hungry.
While ChatGPT provided useful meal ideas, Rizzo highlighted several limitations. The chatbot does not infer information or expand on ideas, relying solely on the exact prompts it receives. Additionally, the accuracy of the calorie information provided by ChatGPT is questionable, as it may be off by approximately 300 calories per day.
Rizzo emphasized that ChatGPT’s meal plan feature can be helpful for general meal ideas and promoting healthier eating habits. However, for individuals with specific health conditions or weight loss goals, consulting a registered dietitian or healthcare professional is essential. Only a human expert can provide personalized guidance tailored to an individual’s unique needs, preferences, and lifestyle.