While New Year's resolutions run a broad spectrum, data from Statista shows that the most common resolutions revolve around health and wellness. The figures show that the top three resolutions for people in the U.S. are to exercise more, eat healthier, and lose weight. While January is a great time to set these health goals, they can be difficult to follow through throughout the year. Sticking to resolutions can be made easier with support from helpful apps that are designed with health, of both the body and mind, as the main focus.
SleepScore
Available On Google Play Store & Apple App Store
SleepScore is an app that is all-encompassing for information on sleep patterns. The app works by obtaining data on the user's sleep and then applying sleep science according to the results of the sleep monitoring which is then followed by personalized advice.
On SleepScore, users can see how many hours of quality sleep they received that night and will receive advice on how to improve the quality of sleep. The app's website claims that 60 percent of people fell asleep faster when they used SleepScore, an impressive feat that will make those who struggle to get a solid 8 hours get their much-needed shut-eye.
HealthTap
Available On Google Play Store & Apple App Store
For the chronic Google-er who turns to a search engine with every hint of a symptom they feel coming on, HealthTap is a must-have app. On HealthTap, users can talk with real doctors, instead of consulting panic-inducing search engines.
For any health-related question, a user can ask a physician who will then give instructions and advice for the user to feel better without a trip to the doctor. Also, there are stories and anecdotes shared from other users that can inform those going through a similar situation.
Lifesum
Available On Google Play Store & Apple App Store
Lifesum is a great resource for meal planning. When transitioning to a healthy diet and lifestyle, it can be difficult as well as time-consuming to keep track of calories, plan meals, and stick to the diet of choice whether it be Keto, Paleo, or a Mediterranean diet. Lifesum helps with all of these things.
Offering a meal planner and virtual food diary, it is easier than ever to successfully map out the meals for the week. Also, the app gives users access to more than 1,000 healthy recipes, enticing users to eat healthy and delicious food. For those who are in need of recipes, there are great apps to use in combination with Lifesum.
8Fit
Available On Google Play Store & Apple App Store
8Fit is like a virtual personal trainer and nutritionist all in one. On 8Fit, users can create their own customized exercise programs. Also, the app allows users to make their own customized meal plans, which is a plus for those who have dietary restrictions and/or allergies.
For those who need information on how to eat healthy, 8Fit has nutritional guidelines for its users to follow. An added plus of the app is that it offers a workout plan with over 300 exercises with no equipment required, perfect for those who want a good workout but may not have the equipment or gym membership.
Calm
Available On Google Play Store & Apple App Store
Calm is a meditation and relaxation app that looks at all facets of the body for optimal well-being. For instance, there are video lessons that guide users on mindful movement and gentle stretching. Further, Calm utilizes music as well as the sights and sounds of nature to aid users in relaxing.
In addition to being a meditation and relaxation app, Calm also assists users in improving sleep quality. Using evidence-backed scientific findings, Calm uses its research to fuel the best strategies for its users. Calm is a great app to use to de-stress.
Noom
Available On Google Play Store & Apple App Store
A unique approach to weight loss apps, Noom is a holistic-minded perspective that uses psychology to help its users notice eating patterns and help them engage in healthier habits. The main focus of the app is to show users the psychology behind their diet and exercise habits, and then use that knowledge along with other tools on Noom to create a healthier lifestyle.
In addition to the traditional features of food logging and suggested recipes and foods, Noom offers the option of human coaching where users can chat with coaches in-app.
Fooducate
Available on Google Play Store & Apple App Store
With food fads and diet trends, it can be difficult to know what foods are actually healthy and nourishing for the body. Fooducate recognizes this challenge and aims to teach its users about grocery store products. The user can scan a barcode and a personalized nutrition grade will pop up along with the pros and cons of the product. With the information Fooducate provides its users, they can then make the most informed decision. The app also informs its users on GMOs, additives, and food colorings. Smartphone users can also find recipes on Snapchat by scanning their food as well.
Waterlogged
Available On Google Play Store & Apple App Store
It cannot be overstated how important water is to health, with the advantages of consistent and appropriate water intake being a common finding in studies.
Waterlogged is an app that recognizes this. Tracking water intake, Waterlogged has users add their favorite bottles and glasses to drink from and then enter how much water they have drunk. For those who are busy or just plain forget to drink water throughout the day, Waterlogged gives reminders to its users.
MyFitnessPal
Available On Google Play Store & Apple App Store
Making food tracking a breeze, MyFitnessPal is a great tool to help users keep a record of the food they intake. The app also acts as a calorie counter which the app makes super easy due to the large database. In addition, MyFitnessPal will show users carb, protein, and fat intake which is incredibly helpful for those who are trying to have a predominantly protein diet.
Also tracking exercise, MyFitnessPal is free to download and use with the option of upgrading to a premium subscription. MyFitnessPal is a great app to use in conjunction with the best apps for runners.
Apple Health
Available On Apple App Store
Important health info is at users' fingertips thanks to the Apple Health app. Medical records can be kept on this app while also being secure and private since the data is encrypted. Steps can be counted on Apple Health as well as giving information on one’s sleep and vitals.
Also, the app collects fitness and health information if one has an Apple Watch, a compatible third-party device, or apps that use HealthKit. This way, users can view their activity and health stats like heart rate.