Unveiling the Complexities of Behavior Tracking: Understanding the Factors that Predict Food and Physical Activity Tracking among Young Adults

By Maryam Marashi

In today's health-conscious society, many young adults are increasingly using technology, such as smartphone apps and wearable devices, to track their food intake and physical activity. This behavior tracking allows individuals to closely monitor their dietary choices and exercise routines, enabling them to set goals and measure progress. While behavior tracking has the potential to support healthier choices and fitness goals, recent studies have raised concerns about potential risks, including eating disorders and disordered eating and exercise behavior. Therefore, it is crucial to explore the factors that influence tracking behaviors to better understand their impact on health and well-being.

Eating disorders are severe mental health conditions that can negatively impact both physical and psychological well-being. Research indicates that individuals with eating disorders may be prone to using food and exercise tracking as part of their illness. This highlights the need to examine the connection between tracking behaviors and disordered eating and exercise patterns, as well as the potential effects of tracking on individuals' overall health.

To address the lack of research in this important area, our study investigated how frequently young adults engage in tracking their food intake and physical activity, as well as the factors that influence these behaviors. By examining a variety of factors including sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviors, psychological indicators, and weight-related measures, our study aimed to uncover valuable insights that can inform the development of interventions aimed at promoting healthier tracking practices.

Based on our examination of 676 young adults, our study yielded interesting results concerning the occurrence and factors associated with food and physical activity tracking. The findings revealed that a considerable percentage of participants (37%) engaged in physical activity tracking, while 14% tracked their food intake. Additionally, a subset of 10% reported engaging in both forms of tracking concurrently.

We identified key factors associated with individuals' tracking behaviors. Notably, individuals diagnosed with eating disorders were found to be more likely to engage in tracking, possibly using it to monitor their recovery or as part of their therapy. Weight-related indicators, such as perceiving oneself as overweight, social pressure to lose weight, and having a desire to lose weight, emerged as significant predictors of both food and physical activity tracking.

Furthermore, the study revealed the impact of social and societal factors on tracking behaviors. Females were found to be more inclined to engage in food tracking, which aligns with previous research indicating sex and gender disparities in dieting and weight-control practices. Moreover, higher levels of education, income, and employment were associated with increased involvement in physical activity tracking, likely due to improved access to resources and a greater awareness of the health advantages associated with tracking.

The study findings uncovered a mix of positive and negative associations between tracking behaviors and health-related indicators. Individuals who met the recommended guidelines for physical activity were more inclined to engage in physical activity tracking, indicating that tracking may serve as a means for individuals to validate their achievement of activity goals. On the other hand, maladaptive behaviors like compensatory actions following episodes of overeating (e.g., skipping meals, purging, and using laxatives) were associated with both food and physical activity tracking. Additionally, body-related embarrassment emerged as a significant predictor of food tracking.

While tracking behaviors can be beneficial for certain subgroups, caution is necessary when making broad recommendations for all young adults. Our findings raise concerns regarding the potential negative health effects associated with tracking, particularly when intertwined with negative body perceptions, social pressure to engage in weight loss, eating disorders, and compensatory behavior after eating. These findings call for a nuanced approach and careful consideration of the potential consequences of tracking behaviors on individuals' overall well-being.

To promote healthy tracking practices, it is crucial to delve deeper into the underlying motivations and psychological factors driving these behaviors. By studying subgroups of trackers who engage in adaptive tracking, we can develop personalized interventions and support for young adults seeking behavior change. This approach will empower individuals to make informed choices about tracking, harnessing its benefits while minimizing any potential negative effects.

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Unveiling the Complexities of Behavior Tracking: Understanding the Factors that Predict Food and Physical Activity Tracking among Young Adults
Erin K. O’Loughlin, PhD, Maryam Marashi, PhD(C), Catherine M. Sabiston, PhD, Kristen M. Lucibello, PhD, Marie-Pierre Sylvestre, PhD & Jennifer L. O’Loughlin, PhD
First Published: March 20, 2023
DOI: 10.1177/10901981231159679
Health Education & Behavior

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Maryam Marashi, MSc, is a PhD candidate in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education at the University of Toronto. Her research focuses on exercise and health psychology, with a particular interest in understanding the psychosocial factors that influence and are influenced by exercise and lifestyle behaviors. Her doctoral dissertation revolves around women's body image in relation to strength training. Alongside her academic work, Maryam also works as a fitness and nutrition coach, helping individuals in the general population to enact lasting lifestyle changes that enhance their overall well-being.