AI health advice adopted by US patients and shaping food choices in South Africa

A recent SingleCare survey of American adults found that 46% had used artificial intelligence to answer medication‑related questions, and nearly half (49%) said they changed how they took a medication based on AI‑generated information. Respondents considered the advice fairly accurate (78%) but also expressed concern about potential errors (83%). Use of AI varied by age, income and family status, with younger, higher‑income adults and parents most likely to rely on it for medication research.

In South Africa, experts note that AI‑generated nutrition recommendations are increasingly influencing consumer food purchases. They advise health organisations and food brands to make product information AI‑friendly, integrate AI into digital menus, and offer personalised meal‑planning tools while providing clear disclaimers and expert oversight to maintain trust. The researchers argue that responsible AI use could steer consumers toward healthier eating habits.