Eighth International Conference on Food Studies

Abstract

Over the years, there is a rising number of health problems in Singapore. The likelihood of younger individuals to become obese has also increased. This poses a problem for Singapore’s healthcare system. The use of dietary tracker as a form of self-monitoring is thus introduced to encourage a healthier lifestyle among individuals. The purpose of this paper is to explore the attitudes of individuals towards the use of dietary tracker as a form of self-monitoring on health status. This paper draws data from a sample group of 150 college students ranging from 18 to 35 years old. The data collated were computed and analysed using SPSS for statistical analysis. Results from this study had shown significant relation between demographics (gender and ethnic group) and use of dietary tracker. Surprisingly, there was no significant relationship between BMI and the use of a dietary tracker. It was reported that health related reasons were the driving factor for individuals who have used a dietary tracker. Similarly, individuals who were not bothered about their food choices would not use a dietary tracker. In all, the understanding of individuals attitude towards self-monitoring would help government bodies and health organisations to tap on this information to encourage self-monitoring via a digital dietary tracker.