Using Quality Apps Can Help Manage or Improve Health

Electronic health applications, or eHealth apps, were first introduced to consumers over a decade ago. Since then, hundreds of thousands have been developed to meet the demand for a growing segment of society. More people today are taking a proactive approach to health. And with the help of innovative health-oriented apps, self-care and health management for the individual has never been more accessible.

Studies published by the National Institute of Health indicates health apps, when used consistently, have a positive impact on health outcomes. People who used health apps reported more satisfaction in managing their health than relying only on conventional methods.

From counting calories to counting steps, and everything in between, digital health apps cover just about every interest in the field of health and wellness. The following free apps are just a few of those available to download for android or ios devices. In-app purchases are available for upgraded services.

1 - MyFitnessPal

MyFitnessPal features a comprehensive solution for tracking diet and fitness goals with an emphasis on counting calories. The app includes a database of more than 11 million food items, plus barcode scanning for more than 4 million food products for making informed decisions while shopping. When dining out, just log menu items in real time. A water tracker is also included. The app tracks calories, macros, fiber, sugar, vitamins, and more.

The apps Fitness section includes interface ability with more than 50 devices and apps to synchronize workouts. Create individualized workouts or choose from over 350 routines included in the app. Track steps and evaluate progress with graphs detailing history. MyFitnessPal encourages motivation and support with its active forum community. Connect with friends directly from the app to share experiences and accomplishments for staying motivated.

2 - The CDC Milestone Tracker for Children

The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) developed the Milestone Tracker application as part of the Learn the Signs Act Early public initiative. The app provides information and resources for parents and caretakers to understand healthy mental and physical milestones for children through age five. Available in English or Spanish, the application tracks developmental progress and also identifies areas that may signal developmental concerns. Tips and suggested activities are also provided to help keep children on track developmentally. Videos and multimedia activities provide an engaging learning environment and the educational component for parents and caretakers is informative and helpful. The app also manages doctor's appointments and delivers reminders for recommended screenings.

3 - Headspace

Headspace provides an intuitive and appealing interface to engage users in meditation emphasizing stress relief, sleep improvement and focus. The app features themed meditations with hundreds of choices for guided meditations. Themes cover relationship issues, work related subjects, self-discovery, and hundreds of more options for individuals or groups.

Going through a breakup or recently lost a job? Headspace provides its SOS component for dealing with pressing issues that need attention now, with a choice between guided or unguided meditations. The Mindfulness Workout section helps to develop more focus and awareness and is designed for fitness enthusiasts and pro athletes alike. This section is also heavy on stress relief meditations and exercises.

Headspace's Sleep section focuses on relaxing meditation and breathing techniques. The sleep cast features storytelling, soothscapes and sleep radio. Choose from an extensive selection of pre recorded soothing sounds like rain and ocean waves.

4 - Home Workouts

This app eliminates any excuses for skipping workouts. No equipment needed and exercises are designed to work around any schedule. Great for individuals with ambitious fitness goals who have time to commit to full-fledged workouts or for those who want to stay toned but have less time to spare. Workouts are personalized and designed by experts to provide the most efficient and effective workouts without the need for a gym. The app addresses each muscle group and includes animations and detailed videos for learning the exercises and routines properly. Training progress is recorded automatically and the app intuitively updates personalized routines while users progress through the exercises.