NEARLY HALF OF AUSTRALIANS TRUST ADVICE FROM AI MORE THAN FRIENDS OR FAMILY
MyFitnessPal
Sydney, Australia, 22 June 2026 – As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in everyday life, new data suggests Australians are growing more comfortable turning to AI for guidance, with many now trusting its advice over the one of people they know.
According to a new survey commissioned by global nutrition and food tracking app MyFitnessPal, close to half (47%) of Aussies say they trust AI-generated advice more than advice from friends or family.
The findings highlight the growing role AI is playing in people’s daily lives, with more than two in five (44%) respondents reporting they have used AI as a form of coaching or guidance before. Health and nutrition came top of the list for the areas with most common use cases, with almost half (48%) of those surveyed saying they have turned to AI for advice in this space.
According to nutritionist and MyFitnessPal ambassador, Michaela Sparrow, the results reflect a growing shift in how Australians seek information and support.
“With artificial intelligence becoming a more prominent part of the way we live and learn, it’s no surprise Australians are turning to AI tools to help answer questions and seek advice, however it’s important to remember that when it comes to nutrition, context matters above everything, ” said Michaela.
“Nutrition guidance is most useful when it reflects what someone is actually eating, what their goals are, and where they may need support. Without that, it can be hard to know whether advice is right for you.”
The research also suggests Australians are seeking advice that is both personalised and available when they need it. Beyond affordability, 13% of respondents said coaching can be less effective when recommendations aren’t based on up-to-date information, while 12% also believe traditional coaching isn’t always available at the moment support is needed.
To support Australians looking for more personalised nutrition guidance, MyFitnessPal has launched AI Coach, a new in-app feature designed to help users better understand their nutrition data and support every-day nutrition choices through tailored, real-time insights based on their goals and tracking history.
“For many Australians, the challenge can be not just keeping track of what they consume, but also understanding what that information means. That’s where tools like MyFitnessPal and the new AI Coach feature can help. By combining food logging with personalised insights based on real-time nutrition data, users can better understand the choices they’re making and identify practical steps they can take to build healthier habits over time,” said Michaela.
“Whether someone is deciding what to order at a restaurant, looking for a cost-effective protein alternative for meal prep, or trying to stay on track while travelling, AI Coach can provide guidance tailored to their goals and eating habits. It actively turns recorded data into uniquely tailored insights that can help guide everyday decisions,” added Michaela.
To learn more about AI Coach and nutrition tracking through MyFitnessPal, visit www.myfitnesspal.com or download the app for free via the App Store or Google Play.
About MyFitnessPal
MyFitnessPal is the #1 global nutrition and food tracking app founded in 2005 with a mission to help people around the world reach their health goals through better food choices by providing knowledge, motivation, and a sense of progress. Supporting nearly 1 million people in reaching their nutrition and fitness goals every year and with a community of over 280 million members in over 120 countries, MyFitnessPal offers members one of the world’s most comprehensive nutrition and food tracking platforms, allowing them to track their food, create personalized and goal-driven meal plans, record exercise activity, and log their weight. With one of the largest food databases in the world comprising over 20 million foods, access to over 2,000 recipes, and over 35 connected fitness partners, MyFitnessPal provides members with the tools for positive healthy change.
About the research
The survey was conducted by an independent third party, with a nationally representative sample size of 1,011 Australians. The survey was conducted between 10th – 16th March 2026. The respondents were sourced, using an accredited online research access panel. Data was weighted for representation against the ABS Census.
