The skinny on weight loss apps

A Pew Institute study shows about 10% of all cell phone users say they have a health-related app -- but that doesn't necessarily mean all of those people use those apps. 

Anne Bartish started using an exercise app on her cell phone when she realized a big birthday was coming up. "It keeps tabs on how long you're going and how much you're losing, so it's a good milestone to see if you're on track," said Bartish. "I have noticed I'm starting to lose weight, which is a good thing, and just becoming more fit. It was time to make a change." Some of the apps have gotten pretty creative trying to make exercise fun. 24 Hour News 8 found one called "Zombie's Run" where the app user becomes part of a story about trying to escape a zombie attack as they run.

Lemon Diet"If you head more towards the saw mill, you should be able to see the massive red signs," one segment of the app's story says.

Lemon Juice DietBut though the number of health apps available has gone up in recent years, studies show say the number of people actually downloading them has stayed fairly static.   With tens of thousands to choose from, not every app is equal. "I think anything that gets people interested in health and overall fitness is a good thing," said Saint Mary's registered dietitian Amy Braganini. But, she said, "When I've researched some of the apps, I've found not-so-sound scientific advice and some might be a little dangerous."