Smartwatch calorie accuracy is assessed

Investigators evaluated energy-expenditure estimates from 4 consumer devices using indirect calorimetry during controlled cycling in Hispanic adults.

1

Smartwatch estimates of physical activity energy expenditure varied by device among Hispanic adults, with significant differences in accuracy.
2

Higher body fat percentage correlated with greater absolute and percentage error in energy expenditure estimates across devices.
3

The study involved 58 Hispanic adults aged 18 to 50, with a mean age of 23 years and a diverse range of body mass indices.
4

Fitbit produced the highest mean bias in energy expenditure estimates, while Apple showed the smallest degree of overestimation.
5

The study's findings may not apply to other activities or populations due to the controlled cycling protocol and limited sample size.

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