Using smartwatches to monitor eating habits and calorie intake

Validating Sensor-based Approaches for Monitoring Eating Behavior and Energy Intake by Accounting for Real-World Factors that Impact Accuracy and Acceptability

NIH-funded research Clemson University · NIH-11049014

This study is testing a new smartwatch that can help you keep track of what you eat by noticing your hand movements while you eat, making it easier to manage your weight and stay healthy in your daily life.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionClemson University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Clemson, United States)
Project IDNIH-11049014 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a smartwatch-based method to monitor eating behaviors and energy intake in real-world settings. By analyzing wrist movements associated with eating gestures, the study aims to provide a more accurate and less burdensome way for individuals to track their food consumption. The approach involves advanced modeling to estimate calorie intake based on the number of bites and drinks during meals. The goal is to validate this innovative method to ensure it can be effectively used in everyday life to help manage weight and prevent chronic diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are interested in monitoring their eating behaviors and managing their weight.

Not a fit: Patients who are not interested in using technology for health monitoring or those with severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with a reliable tool to better understand and manage their eating habits, potentially reducing the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using wearable technology for health monitoring, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Clemson, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.